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Family Violence

Family Violence

Our lawyers help victims of family violence navigate restraining orders, custody issues, and legal remedies while prioritizing the well-being of you and your children.

Empowering you through protection and advocacy.

Family violence is any form of physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse that occurs within a family or intimate relationship. In British Columbia, the Family Law Act and other legislation provide protections for victims of family violence, including restraining orders, custody and access restrictions, and support measures. Recognizing and addressing family violence is critical not only for your safety but also for the well-being of children involved.

Key considerations:

  • Family violence can include physical harm, threats, harassment, intimidation, emotional abuse, and controlling behavior
  • Courts take allegations of family violence seriously when making decisions about parenting arrangements, access, and property division
  • Victims may apply for Protection Orders or other protective measures to ensure safety
  • Legal remedies are available to prevent further abuse, including criminal and civil options

How we can help:

  • Advising clients on their rights and protections under British Columbia law
  • Assisting with restraining orders, emergency protection applications, and parenting arrangements that prioritize safety
  • Representing clients in negotiations, mediation, or court proceedings
  • Coordinating with law enforcement, social services, and support organizations when needed
  • Ensuring that both safety and legal rights are fully protected throughout the process

Our team provides compassionate, strategic guidance to help victims of family violence navigate the legal system. We focus on protecting you and your children, enforcing your legal rights, and creating practical solutions to ensure ongoing safety and stability.

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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Contact us for a confidential conversation.

If you’re experiencing family violence, our lawyers can help you understand your legal options.