Family Law
Divorce Lawyers
Compassionate divorce lawyers serving Surrey and the Lower Mainland, helping you resolve parenting, support and property with as much dignity and as little conflict as possible.
If you are thinking about divorce, or your spouse has already raised it, you are probably carrying a lot right now. There may be grief, worry about your children, and questions about money and the home you share. All of that is normal, and none of it means you have to figure things out alone. Our Surrey divorce lawyers walk people through this every day, with patience and without judgment, so you can make clear decisions at your own pace.
In Canada, the most common path to divorce is living separate and apart for one year. You do not need to file anything to be separated, and you can even be separated while still living under the same roof. The divorce itself is granted by the court, but much of the real work happens earlier, when you and your spouse sort out parenting arrangements, child support, spousal support, and the division of family property and family debt.
Some divorces are uncontested, which simply means both spouses agree on the important issues. Others involve disagreements that need more help to resolve. Neither path says anything about you as a person. Many couples who start far apart reach fair agreements through negotiation or mediation, and court remains available for the issues that truly cannot be settled. We help you understand your options and choose the route that fits your situation and your family.
How long a divorce takes depends on your circumstances. When spouses agree, the process can be fairly straightforward once the one year separation period has passed. When issues are contested, it can take longer, and strict time limits can apply to some claims, so it helps to get advice early. Whatever stage you are at, we offer a free case evaluation so you can understand where you stand before you decide anything.
How we can help
Uncontested divorce
Guiding you through the paperwork and court process when you and your spouse already agree on the main issues.
Contested divorce
Standing beside you when parenting, support or property cannot be agreed, and working toward resolution with as little conflict as possible.
Parenting arrangements
Helping you build parenting time and decision-making arrangements that put your children's best interests first, always.
Support claims
Advising on child support and spousal support so any agreement or order reflects your family's real circumstances.
Property and debt
Explaining how BC law divides family property and family debt, and protecting what is fairly yours.
Mediation and negotiation
Exploring respectful, out-of-court options that can save time, money and stress for everyone involved in the process.
Common questions
Do I have to prove my spouse did something wrong to get a divorce?
No. The most common path to divorce in Canada is living separate and apart for one year, and no one has to show fault or blame. Focusing on the practical issues, like parenting, support and property, is usually healthier for everyone and tends to lead to better outcomes.
Can we be separated while still living in the same house?
Yes. Separation does not require anyone to move out or file anything with a court. Many BC couples remain under one roof for financial or parenting reasons while living separate lives. What matters is that at least one spouse intends the relationship to be over and acts accordingly.
Do we have to go to court to get divorced?
The divorce order itself comes from the court, but if you and your spouse agree on the important issues, the process is largely paperwork and neither of you may ever appear in a courtroom. Contested issues can often be resolved through negotiation or mediation instead of a trial.
How long does a divorce take in BC?
It depends on your situation. Where spouses agree, the process is usually much smoother once the one year separation period has passed. Where issues are contested, it can take longer. Getting advice early helps, because strict time limits can apply to some property and support claims after separation.
What happens with our children when we divorce?
Parenting arrangements are decided based on one thing only, the best interests of your children. Many parents reach a parenting plan by agreement or with a mediator's help. Where parents cannot agree, a court decides, always guided by what is best for the children rather than for either parent.
Can I get a divorce if my spouse refuses to participate?
Yes. A divorce does not require both spouses to agree. If you have been separated for a year, you can apply on your own, and the court can grant the divorce even if your spouse does not respond. We can explain the steps involved during a free case evaluation.
Get clear answers before you decide anything
No pressure and no obligation. Just a clear conversation about where you stand and what comes next.