Divorce & separation

Describes separation in BC and gives information on mediation, what to take with you when you separate, and how to prove you’re separated if you have to keep living with your ex-spouse.

Explains the basics of family law in BC. Includes information about why you might want an agreement for living together, and how to write one; what to do if you decide to separate or divorce; how to sort out money matters and work out parenting arrangements; and how the court process works.

This guidebook has general information about separating and getting a divorce. It is intended for separating couples who can reach an agreement without a trial, and also to those who require a judge to settle a disputes.

General information about making a separation agreement to cover how you’re going to deal with parenting, property, child and spousal support, and other family issues. Also discusses cohabitation or marriage agreements while you’re living together.

Online step-by-step guide to getting a divorce in BC if you both agree about how to deal with your parenting, support, and property and debt issues. Includes links to blank forms you’ll need and instructions about filing them at the registry.

This online app helps people complete documentation for joint-filing divorces in the Supreme Court of BC in cases with or without children. Joint-filed divorces are where both applicants agree on all family law issues relevant to their situation, such as spousal support and the division of property.

Explains the differences between using an alias and legally changing your name, if you have to apply to the court to change your name when you marry or divorce, and the steps for doing so.

Step-by-step guides to help you figure out what to do if you’re the respondent in a family law case and you’ve been served with a court form.

Explains divorce proceedings in BC. If a divorce proceeding has been started against you, you can do nothing or respond. It explains that a notice of family claim starts a divorce proceeding, and what you need to do if you don’t agree with the notice of family claim. It also answers common questions.

This website is for people in British Columbia who are interested in unbundled legal services — a new service model for lower-cost legal help. You hire a lawyer to help with parts of your legal matter (rather than the whole file). You get the support you need at a manageable cost.

Online step-by-step guide on how to apply for an order to waive fees. This lets you begin or respond to a court application without paying the fees. Includes links to blank forms.

Practical information on your legal rights and options when it comes to alternatives to court in British Columbia.

Describes contested and uncontested divorces in BC and explains how laws in other countries might affect the process. Also includes step-by-step guides on how to do your own divorce without going to court.

This chapter provides an overview of family law agreements and covers cohabitation agreements, marriage agreements, and separation agreements in more detail, with additional information about enforcing and changing agreements.

This chapter provides an overview of alternatives to court for family law issues: collaborative processes, mediation, arbitration, and parenting coordination.

This chapter provides an overview of the process for starting and replying to proceedings in Provincial Court and Supreme Court. Includes information about case conferences, interim orders, enforcing orders, and changing final orders.