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Contest Divorce

Contested Divorce

When spouses disagree on parenting, support, or property, we provide experienced representation and clear strategies to help you achieve a fair outcome.

Strong advocacy when divorce gets complicated.

When spouses cannot agree on important issues such as parenting time, support, or division of property, a divorce becomes contested. These cases can be complex, emotionally charged, and legally demanding. Having strong legal representation is essential to protect your rights and secure a fair outcome.

Our team represents clients in high-conflict divorce and separation cases across British Columbia. With extensive experience at every court level, we provide clear strategies and strong advocacy tailored to your unique situation. Whether you are starting or responding to a contested divorce, we focus on safeguarding your interests while working toward resolutions that support your long-term well-being.

Common disputes in contested divorces include:

How we can help:

  • Filing or defending a contested divorce claim
  • Collecting and analyzing financial, parenting, and other key evidence
  • Negotiating in mediation, settlement conferences, or four-way meetings
  • Representing you effectively at family court hearings
  • Working with financial experts, parenting coordinators, and other professionals when needed

We know how overwhelming a contested divorce can feel. Our role is to handle the legal complexities, reduce your stress, and keep you informed every step of the way—so you can move forward with clarity and confidence.

Recent News

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  • Family Law

Jurisdiction and Property in Cross-Border Family Disputes: Lessons from Florescu v. Lodato, 2025 BCSC 1950

Danica Beck

Jurisdiction plays a critical role in cross-border family disputes, particularly when property division spans multiple countries. In this case,the Supreme Court of British Columbia demonstrates how and when it may decline jurisdiction in favour of a more appropriate forum. This case highlights the importance of early jurisdictional strategy to avoid parallel proceedings, reduce costs, and ensure disputes are resolved where they are most closely connected.

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  • Family Law

CTV Interview: Grey Divorce in Canada: Why More Couples Are Separating Later in Life

Grey divorce—separation later in life—is a growing trend that brings unique legal and financial challenges. In this CTV Your Morning interview, Laurence Klass and Shashika Stanislaus provide expert legal advice on navigating divorce after 50, including how to protect retirement savings, divide assets, and avoid costly mistakes. Whether you’re planning ahead or currently facing a late-life separation, understanding your legal rights and financial options is essential for long-term stability.

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  • Family Law

Factors Indicating a Marriage-Like Relationship in British Columbia: “Are we considered spouses?”

Tiara Cunningham,Keita Szemok-Uto

It’s one of the most common questions in British Columbia family law.
In BC, a relationship does not need a wedding, registry, or even the label “common law” to attract legal rights and obligations. When a couple separates, courts may find that they were in a marriage-like relationship, triggering potential claims for property division, spousal support, and other rights under the Family Law Act.

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