Family lawyers help individuals navigate legal issues that arise from relationship breakdowns or family transitions. This includes things like separation, divorce, child custody and parenting time, child and spousal support, division of property, and protection orders. At Hepburn + Glass, our role is to provide clear legal advice, guide you through your options, and represent your interests—whether through negotiation, mediation, or litigation. We serve clients throughout South Surrey and the surrounding Lower Mainland.

Separation happens when two people in a marriage or common-law relationship decide to live apart. You don’t need a legal document to be considered separated, but you do need to take clear steps toward living independent lives. Divorce, on the other hand, is a formal legal process that officially ends a marriage. You must be separated for at least one year before applying for a divorce in British Columbia. A South Surrey family lawyer can help ensure your separation is properly documented and that your rights are protected as you move toward a final resolution.

In British Columbia, the law focuses on the best interests of the child—not the preferences of the parents. Parenting arrangements cover who the child lives with, how time is shared, and how decisions are made. You don’t have to go to court to set up a parenting plan—many families resolve this through mediation or negotiation with legal support. At Hepburn + Glass, we help South Surrey parents create parenting arrangements that are clear, workable, and legally enforceable, without unnecessary conflict.

Child support is calculated using the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which take into account the paying parent’s income and the number of children. In shared parenting situations, support may be adjusted based on the incomes of both parents and the amount of time the child spends with each. While the guidelines provide a formula, each situation can be unique. A family lawyer can help you understand how the rules apply in your case and ensure the agreement is fair, enforceable, and compliant with BC law.

Spousal support isn't automatic—it depends on several factors, including the length of the relationship, each person’s income and earning potential, and any economic disadvantages caused by the relationship. Support can be negotiated or ordered by the court, and there are legal guidelines (called the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines) that help determine the amount and duration. At Hepburn + Glass, we work with clients to assess entitlement, calculate fair support amounts, and resolve disputes—whether you’re the potential payor or recipient.

In BC, most property acquired during a relationship is considered family property and is divided equally upon separation. This includes the family home, vehicles, bank accounts, pensions, and even business interests. Some assets, like inheritances or gifts, may be excluded—but only under certain conditions. We help clients across South Surrey understand what they’re entitled to, identify excluded property, and negotiate fair division—so nothing is left to chance or misunderstanding.

Not necessarily. In fact, many family law matters can be resolved outside of court through negotiation or mediation. At Hepburn + Glass, we don’t push for litigation unless it’s truly necessary. We believe in resolving issues as efficiently and respectfully as possible—while still protecting your rights and long-term interests. When court is required, we’re fully prepared to advocate for you, but for many South Surrey families, resolution comes long before a courtroom is involved.

The timeline depends on the complexity of your case and how cooperative both parties are. A straightforward separation agreement might be resolved in a matter of weeks, while high-conflict custody or property disputes can take months—or longer. Mediation and negotiated agreements tend to move faster than court processes. At Hepburn + Glass, we work efficiently to move your file forward without unnecessary delays, while still ensuring your agreement is thorough and enforceable.

For your first consultation, it’s helpful to bring any relevant documents—such as marriage or separation agreements, financial statements, parenting schedules, or court documents (if applicable). Be ready to explain your goals, your current situation, and what outcomes you’re hoping for. Don’t worry if you don’t have everything in order—we’ll help you understand what matters most and what’s needed to move forward.

We’ve helped hundreds of clients across South Surrey and the Lower Mainland navigate separation, parenting disputes, support claims, and complex property issues. Our approach is clear, strategic, and deeply human. We don’t waste time. We don’t overcomplicate. And we don’t stir up conflict for the sake of it. Whether your situation is amicable or high-conflict, you’ll get honest advice, strong legal support, and a clear plan for moving forward.