What Is a Family Lawyer and What Do They Do?
Family issues like divorce, child custody, or property separation can be emotionally overwhelming. During these stressful times, many people search for clear legal guidance. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn what a family lawyer is, what they do, how much a family lawyer costs, and why you need a family lawyer to protect your rights.
What Does a Family Law Lawyer Do?
A family lawyer is a legal professional who handles cases involving family relationships. Their job is to guide, represent, and protect clients during sensitive legal matters.
1. Divorce & Separation
Family lawyers manage the entire divorce process, including:
Preparing and filing divorce papers
Helping with legal separation
Dividing assets and debts
Ensuring spousal rights are protected
2. Child Custody & Visitation
They assist parents in:
Winning custody arrangements
Negotiating parenting plans
Securing visitation rights
Modifying court orders if circumstances change
3. Child Support & Spousal Support
Family attorneys calculate support obligations and ensure fairness by:
Using income formulas
Filing support claims
Helping enforce overdue payments
Requesting support modifications
4. Domestic Violence & Protection Orders
A family lawyer helps victims of abuse by:
Filing restraining orders
Securing emergency protection
Representing victims in court
Ensuring safety plans are legally enforced
5. Prenups & Postnups
They draft and review:
Prenuptial agreements
Postnuptial agreements
Cohabitation contracts
Marriage agreements
6. Property & Asset Division
Family lawyers handle:
Real estate division
Retirement accounts
Business assets
Hidden asset investigations
7. Adoption & Guardianship
They guide families through:
Stepparent adoption
Agency adoption
Guardianship applications
Legal parental rights
BC Family Agreements a Family Lawyer Handles
Prenuptial Agreement BC
A family lawyer drafts and reviews Prenuptial Agreements in BC to protect assets, set expectations, and prevent future disputes. These agreements are legally enforceable if drafted properly, making professional legal support essential.
Cohabitation Agreement BC
When couples live together without being married, a lawyer prepares a Cohabitation Agreement in BC outlining:
Property ownership
Financial responsibilities
What happens if the relationship ends
This agreement protects both partners and is highly recommended for couples entering common-law relationships.
Postnuptial Agreement BC
A Postnuptial Agreement in BC is created after marriage. Family lawyers help spouses define:
Property rights
Inheritance protection
Spousal support expectations
Division of assets in case of separation
It is often used when financial situations change during the marriage.
Common Law Agreement BC
A Common Law Agreement in BC clarifies rights for couples who live together for 2+ years. Lawyers help document:
Property division rules
Spousal support expectations
Separation terms
Financial arrangements
This agreement reduces conflict and ensures both partners are legally protected.
What Family Lawyers Commonly Handle
Legal IssueServices OfferedDivorceFiling, negotiation, settlement draftingChild CustodyParenting plans, court representationChild SupportCalculation, modification, enforcementDomestic ViolenceRestraining orders, legal protectionPrenups/PostnupsDrafting, reviewing, finalizing agreementsAdoptionDocumentation, court hearings, legal approval
How Much Does a Family Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a family lawyer varies depending on experience, location, and case complexity. Here’s a clear breakdown:
1. Hourly Rates
Most family lawyers charge $200 to $500 per hour. Complicated cases (child custody disputes, high-asset divorce) may cost more.
2. Flat Fees
Some services have fixed fees, such as:
Prenuptial Agreement: $500–$2,500
Uncontested Divorce: $1,000–$3,500
Flat fees work best when cases are straightforward and require predictable work.
3. Retainer Fees
Many family lawyers require a retainer of:
$3,000 to $10,000 upfrontThis retainer is used to pay for legal hours as the case progresses.
4. Additional Costs
You may also pay for:
Court filing fees
Mediation costs
Copying/notary fees
Expert witnesses (if needed)
5. Factors That Affect Cost
A family lawyer will cost more when:
Your ex-partner is uncooperative
The case goes to trial
There are disputes over child custody
Property division is complex
Domestic violence issues are involved
However, a skilled lawyer can actually save money long-term by preventing legal mistakes, delays, and unfair settlements.
At Freedom Family Law, all services are offered remotely across British Columbia, meaning you don’t need to travel to an office. Everything from consultations to reviewing agreements is handled online for your convenience.
Unlike most traditional law firms, Freedom Family Law handles all these agreements at significantly lower prices.
You can view exact fees on our Pricing Page.
Agreements We Handle at Lower Cost
Prenuptial Agreement BC
Cohabitation Agreement BC
Postnuptial Agreement BC
Common Law Agreement BC
This makes our firm one of the most cost-effective and accessible options for couples and families across BC.
Why You Need a Family Lawyer
Many people start a family law case alone, but quickly find themselves overwhelmed. Here’s why hiring a family lawyer is essential:
1. They Protect Your Legal Rights
Family law is complicated. One wrong document or deadline can harm your case. A lawyer ensures:
Accurate paperwork
Proper filing
Strong representation in court
2. They Reduce Stress
Divorce, custody, and financial disputes are emotionally draining. A family lawyer handles the legal burden so you can focus on your family’s well-being.
3. They Negotiate Better Settlements
An attorney helps you get:
Fair custody arrangements
Proper financial support
Equitable property division
Unrepresented individuals often lose out on entitlements they never knew existed.
4. They Help You Avoid Costly Mistakes
Family law cases involve:
Legal deadlines
Court requirements
Financial disclosuresMissing one step can delay your case for months or even lead to dismissal.
5. They Offer Objective Advice
When emotions run high, you may make decisions based on anger or fear. A family lawyer gives:
Neutral guidance
Strategic planning
Best-case legal solutions
6. They Help with Long-Term Security
A family lawyer ensures that agreements protect you not just now, but for years especially in cases involving:
Child support
Spousal support
Property and retirement assets
FAQs About Family Lawyers
1. What does a family lawyer do?
A family lawyer handles legal issues such as divorce, child custody, support, separation agreements, prenuptial and postnuptial agreements, and domestic violence protection. They guide you through legal processes, negotiate on your behalf, and protect your rights.
2. Do I need a family lawyer for divorce?
Yes. Divorce involves property division, financial disclosures, support calculations, and parenting arrangements. A family lawyer ensures you don’t make costly mistakes, protects your rights, and helps you reach a fair agreement.
3. How much does a family lawyer cost?
Costs vary based on complexity, but most lawyers charge $200–$500 per hour or a retainer of $3,000–$10,000. Freedom Family Law offers remote, affordable pricing for agreements and consultations often lower than traditional law firms.
4. Can a family lawyer help with child custody issues?
Absolutely. A family lawyer assists with parenting schedules, custody disputes, decision-making rights, and court applications. They help you build a strong case that protects your parental rights.
5. When should I hire a family lawyer?
You should hire a family lawyer when dealing with separation, divorce, child custody, child support, spousal support, domestic violence, or legal agreements like a prenup or cohabitation agreement.
6. Can a family lawyer help remotely?
Yes. At Freedom Family Law, every service including consultations, document drafting, and legal guidance is offered remotely across BC, so you can manage your case from home.
7. What documents should I bring to a family lawyer?
Useful documents include: financial statements, proof of income, marriage or separation documents, children’s schedules, property records, and any existing court orders.
Conclusion
A family lawyer plays a critical role in guiding individuals through divorce, custody battles, child support issues, domestic violence protection, and more. Whether you’re separating, fighting for parental rights, or drafting a prenup, having a qualified family lawyer ensures your rights are protected and your future is secure.
Understanding what a family lawyer is, what they do, how much they cost, and why you need one will help you make informed decisions during some of the most stressful times of life.
Contact Freedom Family Law Today
Protecting your relationship and financial future starts with the right legal guidance. To discuss your rights and draft a legally sound agreement, contact Freedom Family Law today. Call [(833) 338-2598](tel:(833) 338-2598) or book a free consultation with an experienced Family lawyer who will guide you through every step.
Success Stories
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Mathais Sarrazin was excellent to work with. He delivered exactly what he promised on time and kept me updated every step of the way. His follow-ups and prompt replies meant I never had to wonder what was happening. He is hardworking, patient, and very knowledgeable, always looking at the situation from a holistic perspective to give the best support. With his professionalism and great manner, I felt fully supported throughout the process. Highly recommended!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had the pleasure of working with Mathais as my family lawyer, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. He was absolutely amazing; clear, timely, and incredibly informative throughout the entire process. Mathais took the time to explain everything in a way that made sense, always making sure I felt confident and well-informed before moving forward. I truly appreciate his support and would highly recommend him to anyone looking for a trustworthy and knowledgeable family lawyer.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ I had a great experience working with Mathais and his firm! Mathais was incredibly helpful, clear, and informative throughout the entire process. I felt well-supported and confident in every step thanks to his guidance. I highly recommend Freedom Family Law’s services to anyone in need of legal assistance!
Ready to protect your future together? Contact Freedom Family Law today to get professional, affordable family law help all handled remotely, so you never have to leave your home.
About the Author – Mathais Sarrazin
Mathais Sarrazin is the founder and principal lawyer at Freedom Family Law in British Columbia. A graduate of UVic Law (2012) and a proud member of the BC Bar since 2013, Mathais brings over a decade of experience helping couples and families protect what matters most.
Before founding Freedom Family Law, Mathais gained extensive courtroom experience in both criminal defense and family law, running Supreme Court trials within months of being called to the bar. That early exposure taught him one crucial lesson, many family disputes are preventable with the right planning and communication.
Today, Mathais focuses on helping BC couples create strong, transparent agreements that protect their rights, assets, and relationships. His approach is personal, responsive, and client-focused, he takes the time to understand each couple’s unique situation and offers transparent, predictable pricing to eliminate surprises.
When he’s not helping clients, Mathais enjoys spending time with his family and living the balanced lifestyle he encourages his clients to achieve.