Divorce Guide BC — Step by Step Through the BC Divorce Process. Divorce in British Columbia is governed by the federal Divorce Act. The only ground for divorce in Canada is marriage breakdown, which is established by one year of separation, adultery, or physical or mental cruelty, with separation being by far the most common ground. An uncontested divorce is one where both spouses agree on all issues including parenting, support, and property division. A contested divorce is one where the parties cannot agree and require the court to decide some or all issues. The BC Supreme Court has jurisdiction over divorce and all family property matters. The divorce process begins with the filing of a Notice of Family Claim. Both parties must make complete financial disclosure including income information and a Financial Statement. Parenting arrangements must be addressed in any divorce order that involves children, and the court must be satisfied the arrangements are in the best interests of the children. Spousal support, child support, and property division can be addressed in the divorce order or in a separate separation agreement. After all issues are resolved, a Divorce Order is pronounced by the court and takes effect 31 days later, at which point both parties are free to remarry. Andrew Liggett has guided BC families through the divorce process since 1991. Independent legal advice is strongly recommended at every stage of the divorce process in BC. Sea to Sky Law guides BC families through every step of divorce — from initial separation through to the final divorce order. Contact us for a free intake call. Sea to Sky Law has served British Columbia families and businesses since 1991. Our approach combines practical legal advice with compassionate understanding of the human situations behind every legal matter. We serve all of BC by phone or secure video. Independent legal advice is always strongly recommended before making decisions that affect your family, your estate, or your business.