Create a better divorce experience join our newsletter for supportive, resolution focused information!
A legal separation agreement sets out everything needed to create clarity between you and your to be ex-spouse, after separation. While you do not always have to have one, it is a must have if there are assets and children and a safety document even if there are not. It is highly recommended in all situations.
In BC, if you’ve lived together for more than two years in a marriage-like relationship — or if you have a child together — you are considered “spouses” under the Family Law Act.
That means, when you separate, you may need to make decisions about property, debts, parenting time, child support, and even pets. A legal separation agreement helps document these terms clearly and avoid future disputes.
A legal separation agreement will include details on:
There are multiple ways to create a separation agreement, many of which use Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) processes. At Pathway Legal, we often use mediation, mediation/arbitration, collaborative family law, and four-way meetings. Sometimes, however, our clients, after obtaining some initial legal advice from us, negotiate directly with their soon-to-be-ex spouse. In amicable situations that are not overly complex, negotiating directly with your ex-spouse can be efficient and save on expenses. Visit our FAQ for extra details.
When clients first meet with us, they will ask us what is the average cost of a legal separation in BC. This can be a very challenging question to answer. Of course, this depends upon many factors. These factors include:
Having helped many families through separation in BC, we’ve found that your investment for reaching a legally binding separation agreement has a very wide range.
In our experience, the average cost of a legal separation in BC ranges from $3,000 to over $100,000. That said, most people resolve their matters in the $10,000 to $15,000 or under range and up to $30,000 when there are one more issues that are "sticking" points in the negotiation and resolution of your matter.
In some cases, a flat fee legal separation or divorce is a fit. This means that you and your ex-spouse have been able to reach an agreement yourselves, but you want us to draft the legally binding agreement for you. Or, you have signed a legally binding separation agreement and you now want to get a divorce. Other times, your ex-spouse or their lawyer has presented you with drafted separation agreement and have suggested you obtain independent legal advice. At Pathway Legal, a flat fee applies to independent legal advice as well.
Our clients love it when they are able to use our flat fee structure. This means it is a win-win for the client and the lawyer. For clients, this is because they know at the outset, what the entire amount of their investment for the legal services we provide will be. For us lawyers, it is also beneficial because we can leverage our expertise and efficiencies in such a way that helps your case.
In most circumstances, we charge an hourly rate for assisting you in reaching a legally binding settlement (or, in some cases, a court order). This is because we will assist you depending upon which dispute resolution you utilize. Whether your matter is resolved using four-way meetings, mediation, mediation/arbitration, collaborative law, or court, we can assist you using the hourly rate structure.
However, if your matter qualifies and you want a flat fee legal separation or divorce, you will see from the fully itemized costing below that it is quite possible depending on your circumstances. Need a flat fee divorce? Read more...
The flat fee cost for a Separation Agreement in British Columbia is $3,078.25 at Pathway Legal. This flat fee includes legal fees, disbursements, and taxes for a legally binding separation agreement.
These costs and services also cover Cohabitation Agreements, Marriage Agreements, Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements.
What is the cost breakdown of the Pathway Legal flat fee legal separation?
The breakdown includes:
Requirements
Inclusions
Are discounts available?
What can add extra, unexpected costs?
If your situation becomes more complex — for example, if your ex is uncooperative or if unexpected legal issues arise — additional fees may apply.
We’ll always discuss these with you first. Nothing will proceed or charged without your full understanding and consent.
Can I save money by negotiating a legal separation with my ex partner?
Sometimes, clients choose to negotiate directly with their ex-spouse after an initial consultation with us. In those cases, we are asked to simply draft the legally binding agreement—which is a perfect fit for a flat fee retainer.
Is there a money back guarantee?
Yes. If you are not completely pleased with your lawyer at your first initial consultation, you can have your money back.
How long does it take to get a legal separation agreement?
With Pathway Legal’s flat fee service, many agreements are finalized in weeks — depending on your circumstances and how quickly both parties respond.
Can I choose my own Pathway Legal Lawyer?
Yes. You can meet our lawyers here.
It is Important to Note that Flat Fees Do Not Always Apply:
We offer flat fees for the following services:
Note: If the other party is being difficult, uncooperative, or has an argumentative lawyer, a flat fee may not apply. It’s important to discuss this with your Pathway Legal lawyer. More...