Question 1

What does a family law lawyer in BC do?

Accepted Answer

A BC family law lawyer advises clients on divorce, separation agreements, child custody and parenting arrangements, child support, spousal support, and division of family property under the BC Family Law Act and the Divorce Act. Sea to Sky Law™ also offers mediation and arbitration as alternatives to going to court.

Question 2

How much does a divorce cost in BC?

Accepted Answer

The cost of a divorce in BC depends on whether it is contested or uncontested, and how co-operative both parties are. Lawyers charge by the hour, so matters that resolve quickly through mediation or a negotiated separation agreement cost considerably less than contested court proceedings. Sea to Sky Law™ provides a realistic cost estimate at the outset of every matter.

Question 3

What is a family law mediator in BC?

Accepted Answer

A family law mediator in BC is a neutral third party who helps separating couples reach their own agreements on parenting, property, and support without going to court. Andrew Liggett holds the LSBC Family Law Mediator designation from the Law Society of British Columbia, one of BC's highest ADR credentials.

Question 4

Do I need a lawyer for a separation agreement in BC?

Accepted Answer

You are not legally required to have a lawyer to sign a separation agreement in BC, but it is strongly advisable. BC courts can set aside agreements that are unconscionable or made without independent legal advice. Both parties ideally should have their own lawyer review any agreement before signing.

Question 5

How long does a divorce take in BC?

Accepted Answer

An uncontested divorce can be finalized in 3-4 months after filing. Contested divorces take longer depending on complexity and co-operation between parties. Mediation and negotiated settlement typically resolve BC family matters within weeks to a few months, much faster than court proceedings.

Question 6

What is the difference between mediation and arbitration?

Accepted Answer

In mediation, a neutral mediator helps both parties reach their own agreement—the parties control the outcome. In arbitration, an arbitrator hears both sides and issues a binding decision (award) that is legally enforceable. Arbitration produces a final outcome even if the parties don't fully agree.

Question 7

How is spousal support calculated in BC?

Accepted Answer

BC uses the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAG) as a starting point. Calculation depends on length of marriage, earning capacity of both spouses, child support obligations, and other factors. Actual agreements vary based on individual circumstances and negotiation.

Question 8

What is a legal checkup?

Accepted Answer

A legal checkup (Planning to Prevent Problems) is a focused legal review of your estate plan, family law situation, or business structure. It identifies potential issues before they become expensive problems and provides solutions to protect your family and assets.

Question 9

Do I need a lawyer for a separation in BC?

Accepted Answer

You are not legally required to have a lawyer to separate in BC, but it is strongly recommended, especially if children or significant assets are involved. Legal advice clarifies your rights and protects you from making costly mistakes in agreements or court proceedings.

Question 10

Where is Sea to Sky Law™ located?

Accepted Answer

Sea to Sky Law™ Head Office is at Suite 109, 245 East Columbia Street, Sapperton, New Westminster, BC V3L 3W4. The firm serves all of British Columbia by phone and video meetings most days, 7 days a week. In-person meetings are available at the Sapperton office and at professional meeting facilities across BC by appointment.