Dividing Property After a Common-Law Relationship Ends in British Columbia When a common-law relationship in British Columbia comes to an end, the division of property is primarily governed by the Family Law Act. Under this legislation, unmarried couples who have lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least two years are legally considered “spouses” […]
Common-Law Relationships and Property Division in B.C. 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 »
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
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.
