Family Law
Family Law Services in Vernon, BC
Our experienced family lawyers at Kidston Helm Ross offer compassionate, clear, practical guidance for individuals dealing with separation, divorce, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and property division. This includes helping married couples get a divorce judgment, assisting with parenting arrangements for minor children, dealing with child support for payors or recipients, addressing spousal support, and dividing family property and debts.
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We are committed to resolving family law issues efficiently and with minimal conflict, prioritizing negotiation and mediation whenever possible.
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We are happy to introduce Flat Fee Separation Agreements and well as Flat Fee Cohabitation Agreements (Pre-Nuptial Agreements).
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Separation & Divorce
Our lawyers try to simplify matters and eliminate unnecessary complexity for clients dealing with a separation. Broadly, there are 6 main steps to most separations:
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Living separate and apart and ensuring everyone is safe;
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Arranging parenting time and parental decision-making for any minor children of the relationship;
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Determining child support for any minor children of the relationship;
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Dividing family property and debts;
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Addressing any possible claims to spousal support; and
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Obtaining a divorce judgment (if the couple is married) or a final order/agreement if the couple is unmarried.
We always strive to resolve family law issues without the need for court, through mediation or negotiated Separation Agreements, including our Flat Fee Separation Agreements for those seeking a straightforward and cost-effective solution. Unfortunately, if that is not possible, our lawyers are able to carefully and confidently handle issues in court. They regularly appear in the Provincial Court of British Columbia and the Supreme Court of British Columbia.
Kidston Helm Ross Family Lawyer Darren Schmidt is the co-host of the popular Divorced & Done Podcast, which focuses on legal issues surrounding separation and divorce in BC and Alberta. It can be streamed here:
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Family Law Litigation
While most family law matters can be resolved through mediation or negotiation, there are times when legal action is necessary. Litigation may be required when:
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There is a history of family violence or immediate risk to a child
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A high level of conflict exists between separating partners
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One party refuses to disclose financial information or is mismanaging family assets
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An ex-partner is incurring debt or is at risk of bankruptcy
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Attempts at mediation have failed
Our lawyers are experienced family law litigators who will advocate aggressively when needed, ensuring the best possible outcome for you and your family.
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Cohabitation & Marriage Agreements
For couples who are not separating, but rather want to protect their assets and establish financial clarity, we assist with Cohabitation Agreements (pre-nuptial agreements). In addition to custom agreements, we offer Flat Fee Cohabitation Agreements. These agreements outline how property, debts, and financial matters will be handled during the relationship and in the event of separation. Our lawyers ensure that agreements are comprehensive, legally enforceable, and tailored to your specific needs.
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Family Law Services for the Okanagan and Throughout British Columbia
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Family law matters can be legally complex and emotionally challenging. Our team takes a practical and results-focused approach, prioritizing negotiation and mediation whenever possible while being fully prepared to litigate when necessary.
If you are facing a separation, divorce, parenting dispute, or other family law issue, we are here to provide clear guidance and strong advocacy. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with our family law lawyers.
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Our Team of Family Lawyers
We’re here to help. Contact one of our Vernon-based family lawyers for more information or to schedule a confidential consultation.​
