Living together in a committed relationship without marriage is common in Vancouver and across BC. However, common-law couples have different rights and obligations under BC law compared to married couples.
At Booth Legal, we provide strategic legal guidance, cohabitation agreements, and dispute resolution services as common-law lawyers in Vancouver, North Vancouver, and the Lower Mainland. Alexandra Booth brings over 25 years of experience helping couples navigate property, parenting, and financial matters unique to cohabitation.
*The Law Society requires all lawyers to collect this information before providing a consultation. Please complete the form below so we can proceed with your request.
In BC, a couple is generally considered common-law after living together for at least two years or having a child together. Rights and obligations include:
Local Insight: Vancouver’s high rental costs, shared properties, and co-owned condos make legal guidance essential. Cohabiting without a formal agreement can leave partners vulnerable to disputes.
Learn more about family law support: Family Law Vancouver
Common-Law Property and Asset Considerations
| Property Type | Common-Law Rights | Vancouver-Specific Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Family Home / Condo | Typically not automatically divided | Co-ownership agreements recommended for North Shore or Downtown Vancouver properties |
| Bank Accounts & Investments | Separate unless joint or used for household | Shared living expenses may require tracking |
| Business Interests | Ownership may remain with founder | Vancouver small businesses (cafes, studios, startups) often co-owned informally |
| Debts & Liabilities | Each party responsible unless co-signed | Shared Vancouver mortgages or rental deposits require documentation |
In BC, a couple is generally considered common-law after living together for at least two years or having a child together. Rights and obligations include:
Scenario Example: A couple living in a North Vancouver condo for 5 years with a joint business wanted to clarify ownership rights in case of separation. Alexandra drafted a cohabitation agreement detailing asset division, financial contributions, and business equity, avoiding future disputes.
Children born or adopted in common-law families have the same rights as those in married families. Booth Legal provides guidance on:
Parenting schedules and custody
Child support calculation
Negotiating parenting plans and mediation
Understands nuances of common-law property and financial rights
Familiarity with Vancouver courts, judges, and local property practices
Drafts agreements to avoid future disputes and litigation
25+ years of experience representing families across the Lower Mainland
Focus on protecting your children, property, and financial stability
Common-law relationships in Vancouver can be complex. With Booth Legal, Alexandra Booth provides practical guidance, enforceable agreements, and dispute resolution services to protect your property, finances, and children.
Take control of your cohabitation rights today.
Email Address
Office Number
Address
World Trade Centre building at Canada Place
999 Canada Pl #404, Vancouver, BC V6C 3E2
Address
Harbourfront Business Centre
224 Esplanade W #500, North Vancouver, BC V7M 1A4
*The Law Society requires all lawyers to collect this information before providing a consultation. Please complete the form below so we can proceed with your request.
Typically, two years of cohabitation or having a child together.
Not automatically. Property division depends on ownership, contributions, and cohabitation agreements.
Yes, if there’s a demonstrable financial dependency or long-term relationship.
A legally binding agreement outlining property, finances, and support obligations for common-law couples.
Assets like condos, shared mortgages, and business interests require careful legal agreements to avoid disputes.
