Family relationships

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.

Planning a wedding in BC? You probably have questions about the legal side of getting married — like getting a marriage licence, choosing an officiant, or changing your last name. Here are answers to some common questions.

Not all relationships last forever. But the law can help. A marriage agreement or cohabitation agreement can set out how couples will deal with issues that come up if their relationship ends. These types of agreements can also cover what will happen during their relationship. Learn more about these agreements.

If you’re getting married, separating, divorcing, or simply want a different legal name, you may be thinking about changing your name. Learn how name changes work in British Columbia.

Adoption can be a happy event for two families. But first there are legal matters to take care of — the transfer of parental rights and responsibilities for a child from one family to another. Learn what’s involved in adopting a child or placing a child for adoption.

Adoption registries and reunion services can help adopted people and their relatives reconnect. Learn how British Columbia’s adoption registries work.