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Understanding Child Support in British Columbia
There are many misunderstandings about child support. Whether you are separated or divorced from your child’s parent, considering separation or divorce, or even preparing to have children with your current partner, it’s important to understand these continuing financial obligations.
Who Gets the Pet? Legislative Changes Regarding Companion Animals Now in Effect
Anyone who has a pet knows that these adorable creatures are part of the family, too. For many years, animal law and family law professionals alike have been advocating for amendments to the Family Law Act that will better reflect the way in which pets form an integral part of diverse, modern families.
As of January 15, 2024, these long-awaited amendments have finally arrived. In a landmark legislative measure, the British Columbia Family Law Act has been amended to provide structure and criteria to determine disputes over pet ownership and possession following a marriage breakdown.
This legislative change, following, is the first of its kind in Canada.
Empowering Change: Celebrating Women's Influence and Advancing the Future in Canadian Law
As we celebrate International Women’s Day at Illuma Law, we are taking a moment to reflect on the remarkable contributions women have made to Canada’s legal profession.
Supreme Court of Canada Case Recap: Colucci v. Colucci
On June 4, 2021, the Supreme Court of Canada rendered a judgement that rejected a parent’s claim to reduce or cancel his child support debt of $170,000.
This blog post will outline how the Colucci v. Colucci, 2021 SCC 24 judgement established a framework for courts to follow when a parent applies to retroactively vary child support, pursuant to section 17 of the Divorce Act.
Step-by-Step Guide to Desk Order Divorces in BC
If you and your spouse have separated and you both already agree on the issues of parenting, property, and support, then you can streamline your divorce process by applying for an uncontested divorce by desk order. The only way to get a divorce in BC is by being granted a final order by a judge in BC Supreme Court.
Family Law Protection Orders
If you have experienced family violence or believe there is a risk of family violence, you can apply for a family law protection order. The protection order can be put in place to protect you or any other family member who is at risk. The following article discusses in more detail who can get a family law protection order, in what circumstances the family law protection order will be granted, and how the family law protection order will function to protect you from family violence.
What is a Common Law Relationship and How Do I Prove I’m in One?
Property division rules apply not only to married couples who decide to separate, but also to unmarried couples who have lived together in a “marriage-like” relationship for at least 2 years.
Property Division Upon Separation
Whether you are considering separation, working towards a mutual agreement with your former spouse, or preparing for an upcoming hearing, it is important to understand the basics of property division. The British Columbia Family Law Act sets out a number of rules that specify how family property and debt are to be divided upon separation. The following article sets out the basics of this framework.
Family Law Agreements
Family law lawyers use different types of agreements to resolve family law matters including: Cohabitation Agreements, Marriage Agreements, Separation Agreements and Parenting Plans.
How Does Spousal Support Work in BC?
A separation or divorce can trigger spousal support obligations under BC’s Family Law Act, read our blog about the duty to provide support, entitlement, how to calculate support, and different pathways to obtaining spousal support in BC.
Changes to the Supreme Court Family Rules (September 1, 2023)
Significant changes to the Supreme Court Family Rules (SCFR) came into effect on September 1, 2023. This post from our team of Vancouver Family Lawyers provides an explanation of the amended rules so that it can serve as a helpful resource for those resolving their family law matter in the Supreme Court of British Columbia.
Paternity Tests After Separation and Child Support
In BC, parents have a duty to provide child support, but a parent may ask or be asked to complete a paternity test to prove parentage.
New Amendments to the Family Law Act in BC: What Vancouver Family Lawyers Want You to Know
As of May 11, 2023, notable amendments to the Family Law Act on the issues of pet custody, excluded property, and evidentiary presumptions received Royal Assent to become law in British Columbia. The amendments were first proposed by the Attorney General through Bill 17, the Family Law Amendment Act 2023, in late March 2023.
Custody Rights for Grandparents in BC Family Law Courts
Grandparents have the right to apply to the court for care of and time with a child in a family law matter. This court proceeding will depend heavily on what’s in the best interest of the child.
Abby Pang Receives the 2023 Leader of the Year Award
Abby Pang is the 2023 Leader of the Year Award winner. This award is part of the Woman of Worth Awards which recognizes women making a difference across nine awards categories. They include business leadership, health and wellness, entrepreneurship, youth, and more.
Illuma Family Law’s Abby Pang nominated for the 2023 YWCA Women of Distinction Award
Illuma Family Law’s Abby Pang nominated for the 2023 YWCA Women of Distinction Award
Your Divorce or Family Lawyer’s Commitment to Privacy and Confidentiality
Read about how your divorce or family lawyer will protect your privacy and confidentiality.
What is the Definition of a Spouse Under the Family Law Act in BC?
Read about what is required to qualify as a spouse under the Family Law Act in BC.
Choosing Your Best Vancouver Divorce or Family Lawyer
How to Choose Your Best Vancouver Divorce or Family Lawyer