Families + Children

The federal Divorce Act changed on March 1, 2021. If you’re in the process of getting a divorce, or are married and thinking about getting a divorce, the new rules apply to you. They apply even if your case started before the changes to the Divorce Act. Learn about some of the important changes to Canada’s divorce law.

Family law deals with the legal issues that come up when family relationships begin and end. Marriage, separation, divorce, parenting, support, dividing property, adoption, and family violence — all fall within this area of law. Learn the basics of family law.

The end of a relationship is very difficult. There are many issues to work through and decisions to make. But this practical step can help: preparing an agreement about the family law issues you and your spouse agree on. Learn about separation agreements.

When a couple separates, a question arises: who’s going to move out? Learn your rights when deciding who goes and who stays — and how to enforce the decision.

A divorce is the legal process that ends a valid marriage. It’s different from an annulment, which is a court order declaring a marriage invalid. An order for a divorce or an annulment is granted only if certain requirements are met. Learn about the requirements to get a divorce or annulment.

If you and your spouse agree on the issues of parenting, support and property, there’s a fast-track way to get a divorce. Learn how you can apply for a desk order divorce.

If a divorce proceeding has been started against you, you have two choices: do nothing or respond. Learn what’s involved in responding to divorce proceedings in BC.

If you’re getting married or divorced, you may be thinking about changing your legal name. Or maybe you just feel like changing your name. Learn what’s involved in a name change.

Not all couples who live together meet the definition of spouse under BC’s family law. Those who aren’t considered spouses have some rights but not others. Learn what happens if you’re in an unmarried relationship that ends.

You’ve decided to tie the knot. Congratulations! Learn the legal requirements and the steps involved to get married in British Columbia.