At Freedom Family Law, we understand that planning for the future of your relationship often means addressing important financial and legal matters. Whether you’re considering a prenuptial agreement, postnuptial agreement, or a cohabitation agreement, having the right lawyer by your side can make all the difference. These agreements are designed to bring clarity, protect assets, and reduce conflict in the event of separation. Choosing the right lawyer ensures your agreement reflects your intentions and is enforceable under BC law.
Understanding the Different Types of Agreements
Prenuptial Agreements
You and your partner create a Prenuptial Agreement (prenup) before getting married. It clearly outlines how you’ll divide property, assets, and debts if the relationship ends. Prenups are especially valuable for individuals entering marriage with significant assets, business interests, or children from previous relationships.
Postnuptial Agreements
A Postnuptial Agreement (postnup) is similar to a prenup, but you create it after you’re married. You might consider a postnup if your financial situation changes. For example, if you start a business, inherit property, or experience other shifts in family finances that you want to clearly define.
Cohabitation Agreements
If you’re living with your partner but aren’t married, a Cohabitation Agreement can help you clearly define your rights and responsibilities in the relationship. In BC, once you’ve lived together for two years, the law treats you like a married couple. This means that if you break up, you might have to split your assets and your debt 50/50. A cohabitation agreement helps you avoid misunderstandings and ensures both of you are on the same page from the start.
What to Look for in the Right Family Lawyer
1. Experience With Relationship Agreements
Not all family lawyers focus on agreements. At Freedom Family Law, drafting and reviewing prenups, postnups, and cohabitation agreements is one of our core practice areas. We know the ins and outs of BC’s Family Law Act and how to ensure your agreement is both fair and enforceable.
2. Family Law Focus
These agreements fall within the realm of family law, and that’s where we focus exclusively. Because we focus exclusively on family law, we bring in-depth knowledge and customized strategies to every agreement, whether you’re preparing it before marriage, after marriage, or while living common-law.
3. Clear and Supportive Communication
We know these conversations can be sensitive. That’s why we take time to explain your options in plain language, ensuring you understand your rights and responsibilities every step of the way. Our goal is to make the process approachable, respectful, and empowering.
4. Reputation and Reviews
Client feedback matters when choosing a lawyer. At Freedom Family Law, we’re proud of our reputation for professionalism, empathy, and results. Many of our clients come through referrals, a reflection of the trust we’ve built in the community.
5. Negotiation and Fairness
Prenups, postnups, and cohabitation agreements often involve delicate discussions between partners. We help guide those conversations in a way that protects your interests while maintaining fairness and respect between both parties. Having a lawyer who can balance firmness with compassion makes all the difference.
6. Transparent Fees
We believe in clarity when it comes to costs. We offer our agreements on a flat-fee basis, with prices ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on how complex your case is. This ensures you know exactly what to expect from the beginning and can budget with confidence.
Why Family Agreements Matter
Some people hesitate to consider these agreements because they fear it signals a lack of trust. In reality, the opposite is true–taking the time to clearly outline expectations shows care, responsibility, and foresight. These agreements can:
- Protect pre-existing assets or family inheritances
- Provide certainty around property division and spousal support
- Reduce potential conflict in the event of separation
- Strengthen communication and trust between partners
- Strengthen communication and trust between partners
By setting out terms in advance, couples can focus on building their relationship without uncertainty hanging over them.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re planning to get married, already married, or living common-law, having a clear, well-drafted agreement can provide peace of mind and security for both of you. Choosing the right lawyer ensures your agreement reflects your unique circumstances and stands up over time.
At Freedom Family Law, we specialize in prenuptial, postnuptial, and cohabitation agreements, and we’re here to guide you with experience, care, and professionalism.
📅 Book a free 15-minute call and take the next step toward protecting your future.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every situation is unique. Please speak with a qualified family lawyer in BC to get advice tailored to your circumstances.