I am getting out of a common law relationship. I have

In Alberta common law spouses do not have property rights. That means that you would only share in the value of an asset in your former spouse's name if you contributed to the value of that property. I assume someone already explained that to you.

So in a case like yours the courts will scrutinize your contributions as well as your former spouse's of course.

If you are negotiating you have a strong hand because he unduly pressured you and misrepresented the situation to you and convinced you to pay for renovation that only he will benefit from. If you go to court you would be able to argue that as well of course. And hopefully the court will sympathize with you. I don't know either of you and I find your case quite compelling. He should not be able to be unjustly enriched to your detriment.

He has not abandoned the home as there is no such thing and in your case, you don't even own the home because your name is ***** ***** title. So you have a strong claim to a large interest in the home but you don't actually have a claim to the home and because you were common law spouses this is not even your matrimonial home.

Does that help as a starting point?

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You do not have to get out unless he starts demanding it and even then you should not just go. It puts in a stronger negotiating position if you are in the house and he wants you out.

His offers are evidence but not binding as you didn't accept them.

I am sure he did do all of this on purpose. He sounds like a sneaky and dishonest person.

I think he may be afraid if he gets a letter from a lawyer.

It is my suspicion that he is a bully and so really a coward.

I think a letter from a lawyer may get you what you want.

It would be a good idea for you to consider retaining a lawyer and have that lawyer send him a harshly worded demand letter threatening court.

No it doesn't change my answer.

I think you need to find a lawyer that will sit down and listen to all the details.

And you should not move out at least until you do get some good advice from a more experienced family lawyer.

I do think you should cut off all communication for now.

The best thing that can happen is for him to be shocked when you get a letter from a lawyer after not hearing from you.

Going off the deep end will not hurt you. But if you continue to call him he may be able to you charged with harassment. So that should stop at once.

Then tell him to leave.

Call the police if he persists and make it clear that you are separated but for now this is your home and you are in the process of retaining a lawyer.

That may work.

You definitely do not have the right to change the locks. Sorry!

You're very welcome. It has been a pleasure assisting you.

So, please keep my name. It is Legal Ease. If you need help again please feel free to put my name into the question next time so that I will be the one to assist you.

Take good care and have a great weekend.

Is there anything more I can help you with at this point in time?