That's definitely not the way I would want to start but there is good news. Sooo many cases are being denied right now due to the genuineness reason. But many who appeal, win. It's almost as if they just want to see if your willing to fight for it all you need to do is exactly what you said.
Guy-Favreau Complex
200 René-Lévesque Blvd. West, East Tower, Room 102
Montréal, Quebec
H2Z 1X4
Telephone
514-283-7733 or 1-866-626-8719
Fax
Refugee Protection Division, Immigration Appeal Division: 514-283-0164
Immigration Division: 514-496-2252
This is your office, for NS applicants. I also wouldn't hire a lawyer until needed, if needed. It could take up to 2 years, BUT, after your case worker reviews got file, which will be sent over from cic after you apply, the may give you an ADR.
ADR, or Alternate Dispute Resolution is an informal process in which a Sponsor who is appealing the refusal of their partner’s application for permanent residence as a member of the family class to the Immigration Appeal Division [IAD] has an opportunity to sit down with a representative of the Minister of Immigration and attempt to persuade them they ought to consent to the appeal being allowed. If you can prove during the adr that your relationship is ligit, abd overcome the concerns, you will win, and not have to wait for a full hearing, which you will be entitled to, should you lose. Hold off on the lawyer, fax your forms and get the ball rolling. Appeal form, notice of decision, and reason for decision can be faxed to the number above. I'm really sorry you lost on such a day, but keep your head up and don't worry, it's not over