Family Agreement Review
Independent legal advice for separation, cohabitation, and parenting agreements
Whether you’re entering a new relationship or ending one, family agreements have long-lasting consequences. Our family lawyers provide independent legal advice to ensure you understand your rights and obligations before you sign.
Family Agreements We Review
Separation Agreements
Property division, support, and parenting arrangements
Cohabitation Agreements
Rights and responsibilities for common-law partners — see our dedicated cohabitation agreement review service
Prenuptial Agreements
Asset protection and financial arrangements before marriage — often called a marriage agreement in B.C. and governed by the Family Law Act
Parenting Agreements
Custody, access, and decision-making arrangements
Support Agreements
Spousal and child support obligations and modifications
What We Explain
Financial Implications
- How property will be divided
- Spousal support obligations and duration
- Child support calculations and adjustments
- Pension and benefit entitlements
Parenting Arrangements
- Custody and residence decisions
- Parenting time and holiday schedules
- Decision-making authority for children
- Dispute resolution procedures
Legal Consequences
- Enforceability of agreement terms
- What happens if circumstances change
- Court filing requirements and procedures
- Rights you may be giving up
Why ILA Matters for Family Agreements
Courts require independent legal advice for many family agreements to ensure:
- Both parties understand the consequences
- No one is being pressured or coerced
- The agreement reflects informed consent
- Each person knows their legal alternatives
Our Approach
Compassionate guidance that respects your situation
Clear explanations without legal jargon
Practical advice about your options and alternatives
Neutral perspective focused on protecting your interests
Common Questions We Answer
How much does a family agreement review cost?
Our fixed fee for a standard family agreement review is $1,100 plus tax. Complex agreements — such as those involving significant assets or business interests — are billed at $500/hour. We will ask you before billing.
How long does a family agreement review take?
Most reviews are completed within 6-48 hours. If you’re on a deadline, rush service is available — we can complete your review within 24 hours for an additional $500.
Why do I need independent legal advice for a family agreement?
The lawyer who drafted the agreement acts for the other party — not for you. Independent legal advice ensures you understand your own rights, risks, and obligations before you commit.
What's the difference between a separation agreement and a divorce?
A separation agreement is a contract that settles property division, support, and parenting arrangements when a relationship ends — you don’t need to go to court to separate. A divorce is the court order that legally ends a marriage. Many couples settle everything by separation agreement first and file for an uncontested divorce afterward. We review the agreement before you sign so you know exactly what you’re giving and getting.
Is a prenup the same as a marriage agreement in BC?
Yes — “prenup” (prenuptial agreement) and “marriage agreement” mean the same thing in B.C.: an agreement made before or during marriage setting out how property, debt, and support will be handled if the relationship ends. We review these agreements so you understand what you’re agreeing to before you sign.
Do both parties need their own lawyer?
Each party needs their own independent lawyer — one lawyer cannot advise both sides of the same agreement. We act for you alone; the other party arranges their own independent legal advice.
Do I pay before or after the service?
Our retainer is payable prior to meeting with the lawyer.
Process & Timing
Initial Consultation
Discuss your situation and review documents
Financial Review
asset valuations
Legal Analysis
and enforceability
Advice Meeting
recommendations
Written Certification
independent legal advice
Book your Consultation
Fill out the form on our website to start the booking process.
Meet a lawyer
A lawyer will review the information you submit and prepare for the meeting.
Written Advice
Detailed letter explaining our recommendations and certificate of independent legal advice
Typical timeline:
2–5 business days depending on complexity
Pricing
Service
Price
Agreement Review
$1,100
(high assets, business interests)
$500/hour
(within 24 hours)
Additional $500
Why Choose Independent Legal Co.?
Focus
We focus exclusively on independent legal advice – it's all we do.
Fast & Efficient
Most consultations completed within 6-48 hours. Rush service available for urgent matters.
Virtual-First
Meet from anywhere via secure video call. Upload documents safely through our encrypted portal.
Transparent Pricing
Fixed fees with no surprises. Know exactly what you'll pay before you start.
Truly Independent
We work for you alone. No conflicts of interest, no divided loyalties.
What Our Clients Say
