Unit 4: Family Law

CHAPTER 15: DIVISION OF FAMILY PROPERTY AND SPOUSAL SUPPORT

E-ACTIVITY: MODERNIZATION OF BENEFITS AND OBLIGATIONS ACT AND ITS IMPACT (p. 479)

Activity: Give a Presentation on the Impact of the Modernization of Benefits and Obligations Act

The Supreme Court of Canada ruling in M. v. H. had a ripple effect. Across the country, laws were amended to prevent discrimination against same-sex common-law couples. The federal government responded by enacting the Modernization of Benefits and Obligations Act. What was the impact of this act on federal legislation?

Prepare a group presentation on the impact of the Modernization of Benefits and Obligations Act.

1. Visit the federal Department of Justice Web site to research the background of the Modernization and Obligations Act. Find answers to the following questions:
   • What is the purpose of the Modernization of Benefits and Obligations Act?
   • How many federal statutes are affected by this act?
   • How does the legislation define the term "spouse"?
   • How does the legislation define "common-law partners"?
   • Did this legislation affect the definition of "marriage"?
   • In summary, what were the changes to benefits under the Income Tax Act?
   • In summary, what were the changes to obligations under the Old Age Security Act?
   • In summary, what were the changes to benefits under the Canada Pension Plan?
     
   
   
2. Explore the Web site to find the list of the federal acts that were amended. For each of the following legal subjects, what corresponding act was amended?
   
   1. crime
   2. voting
   3. corporations
   4. immigration
   5. enforcement of support orders
   6. weapons
   7. taxes
   8. Aboriginal peoples
   9. RCMP
   10. war veterans benefits
       
       
       
3. Form a group with some classmates and prepare a presentation to the class. Include the group's answers to the above questions in the presentation. Use the following checklist to help you develop your presentation.

Click here if you would like to download the checklist.

Presentation/Speech Checklist

• Have I presented information that reflects a solid knowledge of relevant facts and terms?
• Have I presented information that reflects a solid understanding of relevant concepts?
• Have I presented information that reflects a solid understanding about how concepts are related?
• Have I taken into account different points of view when presenting information?
• Have I formulated clear and appropriate responses to questions?
• Have I created an opening that is engaging and clearly introduces the topic?
• Have I presented information in a logical sequence?
• Have I formulated a clear and effective conclusion?
• Have I used visuals effectively?
• Have I chosen words and used a level of language that is appropriate to the purpose and audience?
• Have I used speech that is fluent, expressive, and audible?
• Have I used technology or other presentation aids in a way that enhances the presentation?