The Importance of Independent Legal Advice in Family Law Agreements
By Step By Step Law Corporation August 25, 2025 When entering into a family law agreement, whether it’s a cohabitation agreement, separation agreement, or marriage contract, many clients wonder if they must obtain independent legal advice (ILA). While the Family Law Act (FLA) of British Columbia does not expressly require ILA for an agreement to […]
Think Before You Post: Social Media Mistakes That Can Hurt Family Law Cases
Social media is a powerful tool for communication, but when you’re involved in a family law case, your online activity can have unintended consequences. What you post, share, or comment on can be used against you in court. Understanding the risks can help you avoid costly mistakes and protect your case. How Social Media Can […]
Mediation vs. Litigation: Time, Money & Stress
When facing a legal dispute, choosing the right path to resolution is often your first major decision. This is especially true in family law where your time, emotional well-being and financial resources need to be taken into consideration. Mediation and litigation are two common options, each with their advantages and drawbacks. Understanding their differences can […]
New Beginnings Consultation
Understanding the Legal Implications of a Serious Relationship Entering into a new relationship is an exciting time, but it also brings legal considerations that many people may not be aware of. In British Columbia, common-law relationships create certain rights and responsibilities similar to those of married spouses. It is crucial to understand that simply […]
What is a Family Settlement Conference?
It is possible that at a Family Management Conference, a judge will order that the parties attend a Family Settlement Conference. A Family Settlement Conference is a mediation type of meeting with a judge. It gives an opportunity for people to try to work out their differences without going to a trial or hearing. If issues can be resolved […]
What is a Family Management Conference?
Purpose Of A Family Management Conference The purpose of a Family Management Conference is to try to resolve issues without a full hearing. However, if the issues are contested, which means you cannot agree, then the case may need to go to a hearing or trial. At the Family Management Conference, the judge will hear […]
What Is A Commissioner Of Oaths And A Notary?
A Commissioner of Oaths is a person with the authority to administer an oath and witness your signature. The Commissioner of Oaths places their stamp on the signature page, which usually includes the expiry of their appointment as a Commissioner of Oaths. Lawyers are automatically Commissioners of Oaths as long as they are practicing law […]
What are “unbundled Legal Services”? Why consider using unbundled legal services?
What does it mean to be self-represented? If you do not have a lawyer representing you in your legal matter, then you are considered to be self-represented. In family law, it is common to be self-represented. It can be confusing trying to navigate the complex legal system as a self-represented litigant. The Court expects the rules […]
New Year, New Divorce Act
The Divorce Act has been updated. Most of the Divorce Act amendments will come into force on March 1, 2021. If you are or were married, then the Divorce Act, which is federal legislation, likely applies to you. The Divorce Act not only sets out the requirements for getting a divorce, but also deals with parenting, child support, spousal support, and […]
What different types of legal representation can you hire a lawyer for?
Let’s start from biggest (and often most expensive) to the smallest (and likely more affordable). Traditional A.K.A. Full-Scope General Representation Client pays a large retainer upfront (in family cases where you already have a court date set, you can expect to pay at least $5,000 initially) Lawyer manages all aspects of the file Client will […]