Meridian Law Group

10/13/2026

A recent decision from the Supreme Court of British Columbia has provided important clarity on property insurance claims, confirming that appraisal umpires have the authority to resolve disputes regarding Additional Living Expenses (ALE). In upholding an appraisal award that addressed both property repairs and living costs, the court reinforced the role of the appraisal process as an efficient mechanism for resolving valuation disputes without protracted litigation.

For property owners, insurers, and adjusters, understanding the scope of insurance policy appraisal clauses and how they handle related expenses is critical when navigating complex claims.

https://ow.ly/t5Aw50ZXf6S

She claimed $184,149.35 for her flooded condo. The umpire chose far less and never said why

10/07/2026

Divorce dissolves a valid marriage after establishing a breakdown under the Divorce Act. In contrast, an annulment applies only if the marriage was invalid from the beginning, such as cases involving lack of mental capacity, bigamy, fraud, or coercion.

Meridian Law Group provides legal advice and strategy at every stage of divorce. Whether through negotiation, mediation, arbitration, or trial, our family lawyers pursue efficient, low-conflict resolutions tailored to your goals.

Contact our team at (604) 913-7465 or reach out online to schedule a confidential consultation.

10/05/2026

Navigating a complex insurance claim can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. From navigating complex ICBC disputes to securing fair settlements, Meridian Law Group has provided trusted insurance litigation guidance across British Columbia since 1988. Hearing feedback like this highlights our team's commitment to guiding every client through the legal process with total clarity, persistence, and dedicated support.

If you are facing an ICBC or insurance dispute and need experienced, straightforward legal representation, contact Meridian Law Group today at (604) 337-6184 or visit meridianlawgroup.ca to schedule a confidential consultation.

10/01/2026

October 1 is National Seniors Day in Canada, a time to honour and celebrate the invaluable contributions older adults make to our families, workplaces, and communities.

At Meridian Law Group, our elder law lawyers are dedicated to advocating for the rights, dignity, and protection of senior citizens across Vancouver and British Columbia. From addressing financial, physical, or emotional elder abuse to resolving Power of Attorney disputes and committeeship applications, our firm provides strong, compassionate advocacy when vulnerable older adults face mistreatment or legal conflict.

To learn more about how our legal team advocates for seniors and handles complex elder law and estate disputes, visit meridianlawgroup.ca.

09/30/2026

On September 30, our team at Meridian Law Group pauses to observe the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and Orange Shirt Day.

We honour the Survivors of the residential school system, their families, and the children who never returned home.

09/29/2026

Prenuptial agreements are not just for the wealthy; they are valuable tools for anyone entering a marriage or marriage-like relationship in British Columbia who wants clarity and protection for their future.

In a new article written by Meridian Law Group family lawyer Mia Bottos, we explore who can benefit most from a prenuptial agreement, from individuals entering a relationship with pre-existing assets or business interests to those seeking to protect inheritances or clarify financial responsibilities.

Read the full post to learn how a prenuptial agreement under B.C.’s Family Law Act can safeguard your interests: https://ow.ly/2Ww950ZSMNX

Who should get a prenup in B.C.? Learn when Vancouver couples may consider marriage agreements for property, businesses, debt and more.

09/25/2026

When control of a family business changes hands, disputes over profits, dividends, and director compensation can quickly lead to a stalemate.

In a recent blog post, Paul Harden, Principal, and Edward E. Bowes, Associate Counsel, break down how British Columbia courts handle shareholder oppression claims and "just and equitable" remedies under the Business Corporations Act. Using recent court decisions, they address critical questions regarding minority shareholder rights, trust holdings, director salaries, and dispute resolution options for closely held companies.

Read the full insight to learn more about protecting shareholder expectations and resolving corporate stalemates: https://ow.ly/MvP450ZRrKq

When can a BC court order dividends, review a director’s salary, or wind up a family company? Meridian Law Group answers key oppression questions.

09/23/2026

In Vancouver, a mature tree can significantly impact a property development project. As our principal, Paul Harden, explains, navigating the City of Vancouver’s Protection of Trees By-law involves managing both municipal permit requirements and private property boundary considerations, especially when roots, branches, or co-owned boundary trees cross property lines.

Read Paul's complete legal breakdown on balancing mature tree preservation with urban development in our latest blog post: https://ow.ly/RkP250ZQeLB

Mature trees can complicate Vancouver development. Learn about tree removal, neighbouring properties, construction damage and disputes.

09/21/2026

Heading into a family law dispute in British Columbia can feel overwhelming, especially when complex dynamics like extended family involvement, financial disclosure, or property claims come into play.

Taking the time to evaluate key legal and practical questions before entering litigation can make a significant difference in how effectively you navigate the process.

In our latest blog post, family lawyer Alina Petraru and our Principal, Paul Harden, break down 9 essential questions to ask before a B.C. family law dispute goes to court.

Read the full article on our website to learn more: https://ow.ly/6Xw150ZOjG5

Disclosure, credibility, in-law claims to the family home, imputed income, lump sum support and reconsideration: Meridian Law Group answers 9 BC questions.

09/18/2026

When an adult is declared incapable by the court, and a committee is appointed, it can have immediate and surprising legal effects on their existing planning documents.

In British Columbia, a court declaration of incapacity automatically terminates any enduring power of attorney. However, representation agreements governing health and personal care may be preserved under certain legal tests.

In our latest blog post, lawyer Sarah MacDonald breaks down how committeeship orders impact powers of attorney and representation agreements under B.C. estate law: https://ow.ly/4qKI50ZOjri

A BC court declaration of incapacity ends every power of attorney, but a representation agreement can survive. Meridian Law Group explains section 19.