Start Here — BC Family and Estate Law Help. British Columbia's family law system is governed by the Family Law Act and the federal Divorce Act. These statutes determine how parenting arrangements are made, how property is divided, and how financial support flows between former partners. BC estate law is governed by the Wills, Estates and Succession Act. Many BC families are surprised to learn that separation and divorce are legally distinct. Separation triggers most important legal deadlines and property rights under BC law. Common law couples who have lived together for at least two years have rights to spousal support and property division under the Family Law Act. Not every situation requires full legal representation. Some families resolve parenting and financial matters through mediation or collaborative processes, using lawyers only for independent legal advice before signing a final agreement. Others need full advocacy where there is family violence, a power imbalance, complex business or pension assets, or a dispute that cannot be negotiated. A Legal Checkup is a focused conversation with a BC lawyer who can identify what applies to your situation, what deadlines exist, and what your realistic options are. Andrew Liggett has practised family law, estate law, and business law in BC since 1991. He is a certified Family Law Mediator and Arbitrator through the Law Society of BC. Sea to Sky Law serves clients across all of BC by phone or secure video. Independent legal advice is strongly recommended before making any decisions about your family, estate, or business matters. 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.