Separation changes a family. It doesn't have to break it.
Woodcock & Tomlinson Law helps people across Vancouver and the Lower Mainland through separation, parenting and property matters, and helps families plan ahead with wills and estate planning.
You don't need to have it all figured out before you call.
Most people come to us in the middle of something hard. Some have just separated. Some have been in a stalemate for months. Some simply want to know where they stand before they make a move.
Wherever you are, our job is to explain your rights under British Columbia's Family Law Act and the federal Divorce Act in plain language, and then help you choose the path that protects you and your children.
In your first meeting we'll cover
- Where things stand today, and what's urgent
- Your options, both in and out of court
- Realistic timelines and what they're likely to cost
- What to do, and what to avoid, in the weeks ahead
Where we can help
Family law is the heart of our practice, alongside wills and estates, because protecting a family doesn't end when a separation does.
Parenting & guardianship
Parenting time, responsibilities and relocation, built around your children's best interests.
Family property & debt
The family home, pensions, businesses and debts, divided fairly under BC law.
Agreements
Separation, cohabitation and marriage agreements that hold up when they're tested.
How a family law matter usually moves
Every family is different, but most files follow this shape. Many never reach step four in a courtroom.
A first conversation
We listen, identify what's urgent, and explain your rights and options.
Disclosure and a plan
Both sides exchange full financial disclosure. We set goals and a strategy.
Negotiation or mediation
Most matters settle here, faster and for far less than a trial.
Agreement or order
Terms are finalized in a written agreement or a court order you can rely on.
Common questions
How long do we have to be separated before we can divorce?
Under the Divorce Act, the most common ground is living separate and apart for at least one year. You can resolve parenting, support and property issues, and even start the court process, before the year is up.
We weren't married. Do the same rules apply to us?
Often, yes. In British Columbia, people who lived together in a marriage-like relationship for at least two years are generally treated as spouses for property division and spousal support under the Family Law Act. Child support applies no matter how long you lived together.
How is child support calculated?
Most child support is set by the Federal Child Support Guidelines, based on the paying parent's income and the number of children. Special expenses such as childcare, medical costs and some activities are usually shared in proportion to income.
We agree on everything. Do we still need lawyers?
An agreement is only as strong as the process behind it. Having each person get independent legal advice makes it much harder to challenge later, and it often catches issues, like pensions or tax, that are easy to miss.
What will this cost?
It depends on how much you and your former partner agree on. We explain our fees at the first meeting, give you a written estimate, and offer flat fees for many agreements.
Talk it through with a lawyer who knows families.
A first consultation gives you a clear picture of where you stand and what your options are. Most people leave with a plan.
Book a consultation