Family Lawyers

Often, no. Many families reach a fair outcome through negotiation or mediation, which is usually faster, less stressful and less expensive. If court becomes necessary to protect you or your children, we are fully prepared to take that step and advocate for you.

Under the Family Law Act, every decision about children is guided by their best interests, not by who is at fault for the separation. We help you build a parenting plan that supports your kids and reflects their needs, and we work to keep conflict to a minimum throughout.

Child support in BC follows the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which are based on income and parenting time. Spousal support depends on factors like the length of the relationship, roles during it and each person's situation. We explain what these mean for you in plain terms.

In general, property and debt built up during the relationship are shared between spouses, with some exceptions. This can include the home, savings, pensions and what you owe. We review your finances with you and work toward a division that is fair and clear.

Take care of yourself and your children first, then get informed. Gather basic financial documents, note the date of separation, and speak with a family lawyer early, since strict time limits can apply to some claims. You do not need to have any decisions made before reaching out.

One lawyer cannot act for both of you, because your interests differ even in a friendly separation. Each spouse having independent legal advice protects both of you and makes any agreement much stronger. Your spouse's lawyer, however cordial, is not looking out for your interests.

That agreement is worth protecting properly. A lawyer can turn your understanding into a clear written separation agreement, confirm nothing important was missed, and arrange independent legal advice so it holds up. Agreeable separations handled well tend to stay agreeable, which is what everyone wants.

The only consideration is the best interests of the child. Courts look at the child's safety and wellbeing, their relationships and stability, each parent's ability to care for them, and the child's views where appropriate. Most families settle before a judge ever needs to decide.

Your safety comes first, before any legal strategy. BC courts can make protection orders where there is a safety concern, and there are supports available in the community. If you are in immediate danger, call 911. When you are ready, we can talk through legal protections confidentially.

That is a fair concern, and we would rather you ask than stay away. Costs depend on how contested things become, and resolving issues by agreement usually costs far less than litigation. A free case evaluation lets you understand your situation and options before spending anything.