Living Together or Living Apart

Common-Law Relationships, Marriage, Separation, and Divorce

Explains the basics of family law in BC. Includes information about:

your rights and responsibilities if you’re married or in a marriage-like relationship,
how spouses can work out agreements,
how to work out arrangements for parenting if you have children,
what to do if you decide to separate or divorce, and
how to sort out money matters.

Also explains your legal options and where to get help, and includes a glossary.

The simplified and traditional Chinese, French, Punjabi, and Spanish versions don't include the most recent changes and updates that appear in the English version.

This publication is for people who are comfortable reading and may have some legal knowledge.