Amanda Marsden
Amanda Marsden is a managing lawyer who brings a unique blend of expertise that sets her apart in the realm of family law. Before focusing exclusively on family law, Amanda honed her skills at a prestigious national law firm, where she delved into the complexities of corporate law, gaining valuable insights that now give her an edge in handling high net-worth property settlements for her clients.
A Holistic Approach to Family Law
Beyond her legal prowess, Amanda brings a distinctive background in psychology to her practice, making her exceptionally adept at navigating the emotionally challenging aspects that clients often encounter during separation. She understands the importance of providing empathetic support, guiding her clients through the court system while addressing one of the most difficult emotional experiences they may ever face. Recognizing that each client is unique, Amanda ensures individualized treatment that demonstrates utmost sensitivity to their situation.
Empowering Clients Through Education
Passionate about empowering her clients, Amanda firmly believes in equipping them with a clear understanding of the legal issues surrounding their circumstances. Her dedication lies in presenting the law in an easy to understand and accessible manner, making you feel in control of your own situation and ensuring your voice is heard throughout the entire legal process.
Amanda's approach to dispute resolution is rooted in the belief that a negotiated settlement is often the best outcome. She diligently explores alternative dispute resolution methods whenever possible. However, when situations call for it, Amanda is an excellent advocate in court, tenaciously fighting for her clients' rights and interests. Though she has successfully appeared in all levels of Court in Alberta, the majority of her practice centers on the mediation/arbitration process.
Amanda has a record of success in representing clients on diverse family and estate planning issues, such as:
- Wills, including mirrored wills for couples
- Powers of attorney
- Personal directives
- Divorce and separation
- Child support
- Spousal support
- Complex family property division, including high-income earners, business structures and corporate financials
Amanda also has significant experience assisting clients with alternate dispute resolution options and offers the following services:
- Prenuptial or postnuptial agreements
- Cohabitation agreements
- Separation agreements
- Parenting agreements
- Property and support agreements
- Attendance at mediation, arbitration, and settlement meetings
Committed to the Community
Giving back to the community is important to Amanda. She has volunteered time to assist victims of domestic violence, new immigrants to Canda, and individuals in crisis situations. The training she received in volunteering at a crisis center helps her address her client’s most urgent needs.
When Amanda isn't advocating for her clients, she indulges her love for travel, cherishing moments spent with her family. An avid runner and gardening enthusiast, Amanda finds solace and inspiration in nature.
Reported Decisions
Visit our Reported Decisions page to discover more cases that showcase the exceptional legal advocacy provided by Crossroads Law.
Alanen v Elliott, 2019 ABCA 4852019
Counsel of Record: Marcus M. Sixta & Amanda Marsden
Case Summary: In this high-conflict divorce case, Marcus Sixta and Amanda Marsden were successful in having the respondent father found in contempt of court for breaching a court order and to pay costs to our client in the amount of $10,000. Despite a clear court order directing him to stop contacting the wife's professional advisors, the husband emailed her lawyer. His subsequent appeal was dismissed, reinforcing that he had knowingly violated the court's orders.
MLJ v SFJL, 2017 ABQB 1942017
Counsel of Record: Amanda Marsden
Conflict of Laws: Family law — Children — Custody
Child removed from jurisdiction by spouse or spouse refusing to return child — Habitual residence
Case Summary: Amanda Marsden successfully represented the mother in this case involving international child custody. The court ruled that the child, who was taken to Canada by the father, was wrongfully retained and should be immediately returned to France. The father failed to prove that the mother had deceived him into moving to France with the intent of ending their relationship. The decision reinforced that both parents had originally mutually agreed to make France their habitual residence, affirming the mother's rightful custody.
Amanda is a very caring and compassionate individual with a big heart and a level of understanding and commitment that goes above and beyond. From the very first time I spoke with her, I knew she would put the needs of my family and I first.
Credentials
- Juris Doctor, Law, University of Calgary
- Bachelor of Arts, Psychology (graduated with distinction)
Free Consultation
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Blogs by Amanda
Co-Parenting Tips for a Peaceful Summer Holiday
Summer holidays are upon us! A time often associated with relaxation, adventure, and cherished family memories.
Resolving Parenting Conflicts Through Mediation
Mediation is a process of dispute resolution where a neutral third party, known as the mediator, facilitates communication and negotiation between parties in conflict.
When Child Support Feels Overwhelming: Understanding Undue Hardship in Canada
In Canada, parents have a legal obligation to financially support their children, even after a divorce or separation.