An engaged dialogue regarding the changing environment of rights, obligations and relationships in the settlement of property and family conflicts of lesbians in Halifax (Nova Scotia)

During the year 2000 there were a number of federal (Bill C-23---Modernization of Benefits and Obligations) and Nova Scotia (Bill 75---Law Reform) Acts which recognized same-sex couples under a new rights based template. The intent of the omnibus legislation was to modify provisions of numerous acts so that there was equal application of the law to unmarried opposite-sex and same-sex couples. These changes affected the environment in which lesbians in Nova Scotia frame their intimate relationships and resolve end-of-relationship conflicts.; This project is constructive research based on a process of engaged dialogues with women affected by the legal changes, with lawyers, and with family mediators to: (1) Surface themes and voices of the women affected by the changes; (2) Enhance participants' and service providers' understanding of the changes; (3) Collaborate with participants regarding how to best respond to the changes.; The study concludes with a series of action recommendations to be considered by the project sponsor, The Nova Scotia Rainbow Action Project, and others, regarding how to move forward with advocacy, information, and support.