After separation, parents often need to make practical changes—accepting new employment, moving closer to family supports, or finding more affordable housing. In British Columbia, a move with a child can become a legal issue if it meets the Family Law Act (FLA) definition of a “relocation.” When that framework applies, there are clear notice requirements and a […]
Many people assume that once a Will is signed, it can be stored away and never revisited. In practice, a Will is only as effective as its fit with a person’s current life, assets, and relationships. In British Columbia, an older Will may still be legally valid, but it can produce outcomes the Will-maker never
Updating Your Will in British Columbia: When and Why You Should Revisit It Read More »
Can a Spouse Be Held Responsible for the Other Partner’s Personal Debt After Separation in BC? The division of debt following a separation in British Columbia is governed by the Family Law Act, which sets out clear rules for how debts are classified and divided between spouses. Understanding these rules is essential for advising clients
Liability For Partner’s Debt After Separation in B.C. Read More »
Do Common-Law Couples Have the Same Property Rights as Married Couples in BC? In British Columbia, many couples choose to live together in committed, marriage-like relationships without formally marrying. These relationships—commonly called “common-law relationships”—are recognized under BC’s Family Law Act. Importantly, once certain criteria are met, common-law couples have nearly identical property and debt division rights
Property Rights of Common-Law and Married Couples After Separation in British Columbia Read More »
In British Columbia, spousal support (sometimes called “alimony”) is not automatic. Whether a spouse is entitled to support, and for how long, depends on a careful assessment under the Divorce Act (for married spouses) or the Family Law Act (for married and common-law spouses). The process involves determining entitlement, quantum (amount), and duration, guided by both legislation and the Spousal
Entitlement and Duration of Spousal Support in British Columbia Read More »
When a spousal relationship ends, the division of property and debt is governed by the Family Law Act. The Act applies to both married spouses and unmarried spouses who have lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least two years. 1. Equal Division: The General Rule The starting point is that all family property and family debt are divided
Property Division on Divorce or Separation in British Columbia Read More »
Do I Need a Lawyer to Get a Divorce in British Columbia? Ending a marriage can be overwhelming and emotional. A common question in British Columbia is whether you need a lawyer to get a divorce. The short answer is no—you are not legally required to have a lawyer. However, legal advice is strongly recommended, especially
When to Let a Lawyer Handle a Divorce Read More »
When a relationship breaks down, many couples in British Columbia wonder whether they need to be “legally separated” before they can get a divorce. While the terms “separation” and “divorce” are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings and legal effects under BC law. Understanding the distinction between separation and divorce is an important first
The Difference Between Legal Separation and Divorce in BC Read More »
Separation or divorce can be one of the most challenging and emotionally taxing experiences an individual can go through. In addition to the emotional and personal challenges, there are significant financial implications to consider. Dividing assets, liabilities, and ensuring fair financial settlements can be complicated. To protect assets and financial interests in the event of
Facing a divorce can be one of life’s most challenging journeys. Sometimes, it’s a path we never thought we’d tread. But here’s the truth: divorce is a reality for some, and when it happens, we are here to guide you. What’s a Desk Order Divorce, you ask? It’s a streamlined process for uncontested divorces, aimed
Streamlining Divorce: The Ins and Outs of Desk Order Divorce Read More »
Melissa has 8+ years of combined Commercial, Business and Contract Law experience as In-House Counsel in manufacturing, health, real estate development, and broadcast communication industries. She is instrumental in developing strategies to minimize legal risk and ensure regulatory compliance.
She has 6+ years of Human Resources Management experience and a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Her practice includes Family Law, Civil Litigation, Wills & Estates and Real Estate & Conveyancing.
For fun, she visits ancient sites and ruins and belts out popular Broadway tunes.
Northam Law is a boutique law firm offering advisory services in Real Estate Law and Conveyancing, Business Law, and Human Resources. Our practice areas also include Wills & Estates and Family Law. Notarization services are also available.
