April 30, 2019

B.C.'s New Family Law Act

BC Family Law Act

The new Family Law Act came into force in British Columbia on March 18, 2013, replacing the old Family Relations Act.

The new B.C. Family Law Act will result in a number of changes to the law, including an emphasis on resolving family disputes by agreement without going to court via processes such as mediation and collaborative law and an attempt to promote a wider understanding of domestic violence and problems resulting from it. An attempt is made to reduce tensions by introducing less emotive language in cases regarding children as "custody" and "access" are changed to "guardianship" and "parenting time" and "contact". The B.C. Family Law Act creates new clearly defined property rights for unmarried couples as it stipulates that when a couple lives together for more than two years they will have the same property rights on separation as married couples.

THE BRIEF

Read more from Kitsilano Family Law’s blog — The Brief.

Your Child has been Wrongfully Taken to Canada
February 19, 2021

If your child has been wrongfully taken to, or is wrongfully remaining in BC, there are two main legal remedies that can help you in having your child returned home.

Dealing with International Assets
April 30, 2020

For many of our clients, having businesses and other property in our parts of the world was a normal part of their lives. But when these individuals have a looming separation or divorce, it soon becomes clear that their separation or divorce will be quickly complicated by the possible division of these overseas businesses and properties. What can you do to get full disclosure or prevent dissipation of overseas assets? What can you do when you dispute BC's jurisdiction and want another jurisdiction to make a determination over your separation or divorce issues?

Weathering the Storms of Life
April 14, 2020

Even with the best planning, we cannot entirely avoid the challenges that are inherent to life. We can, however, make plans to weather those storms. Having a will and a representation agreement is a very practical way to “weather the storms” of life.

Hear for you
At Kitsilano Family Law, our approach is informed by listening. We can provide guidance on your family law situation during an initial consultation. For new family law matters, we offer an initial 1-hour consultation at 200 cad plus taxes (or 100 cad plus taxes for half an hour). For ongoing family law matters and independent legal advice, consultations are charged at lawyers' hourly rates. Contact us to learn about your options.
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