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Divorce · British Columbia

Divorce, handled clearly.

A calm, structured path through separation, filing, support and property — with a lawyer who has appeared at every level of court in BC.

Book a Strategy SessionCall 604 695 8486

Divorce in British Columbia is governed by the federal Divorce Act and, for property and parenting, the BC Family Law Act. Dana Rogers guides clients through both — from the first conversation about separation to a signed final order.

The three things a BC divorce resolves

Every divorce ultimately settles some combination of three things: parenting (time with children and decision-making responsibility), support (child support under the Federal Child Support Guidelines and spousal support under the SSAGs), and property (division of family property and debt acquired during the relationship, plus any excluded property).

Uncontested vs contested

When both spouses agree on parenting, support, and property — often after negotiation or mediation — the divorce can be filed as an uncontested desk order and granted without a court appearance. When one or more issues remain in dispute, the file proceeds in Provincial Court or Supreme Court, with the possibility of Judicial Case Conferences, interim applications, and, if necessary, trial.

The one-year separation rule

Most BC divorces are granted on the ground of one year of living separate and apart. You can begin negotiating parenting, support, and property immediately on separation — the one-year clock only affects when the divorce order itself can be granted.

How Dana works

Dana starts with negotiation and mediation wherever they will produce a fair result. When the other side will not engage in good faith, she litigates decisively. Every file begins with a free 30-minute consultation and a clear scope of work.

Where you're located

Rogers Law Group takes divorce files from clients across British Columbia. If you're in the Okanagan, start with the Kelowna divorce lawyer page — Dana's Dickson Avenue office serves Kelowna, West Kelowna, Lake Country, Vernon and Penticton. If you're in the Lower Mainland, start with the Vancouver divorce lawyer page — the Yaletown office serves Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, the North Shore, New Westminster and Surrey.

Estimate what you'll pay or receive

Two quick planning tools before you book a consultation: the BC child support calculator for the Federal Guidelines table amount, and the BC spousal support calculator for the SSAG "without children" range.

Common questions

Frequently asked.

What are the grounds for divorce in BC?
Under the federal Divorce Act, divorce in BC is granted on one of three grounds: at least one year of living separate and apart (by far the most common), adultery, or physical or mental cruelty. Most divorces proceed on the one-year separation ground.
How long does a divorce take in BC?
An uncontested desk-order divorce in BC typically takes three to six months from filing, once the one-year separation period is satisfied. Contested divorces involving parenting, support, or property disputes can take a year or more depending on complexity.
Do I have to go to court to get divorced in BC?
No. Most BC divorces are resolved on paper as desk orders once the parties agree on parenting, support, and property. Court appearances are usually only necessary when key issues remain in dispute.
What does a BC divorce cost?
Costs vary with complexity. An uncontested divorce with a signed separation agreement is far less expensive than a contested court file. Dana provides a clear scope and fee estimate at the free initial consultation.
Can I get divorced if my spouse won't sign?
Yes. A divorce can be granted without your spouse's consent, provided proper service is made and the legal requirements — usually one year of separation — are met.

Ready to talk?

Book a $300 30-minute strategy session with Dana Rogers. Fee is credited toward your retainer if we take on your matter.

Book a Strategy SessionCall 604 695 8486