Amy Robertson Mediation Services

11/04/2026

Separation vs. Divorce: What Is the Difference?

Separation and divorce are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing.

In British Columbia, you can be separated without getting divorced. But what does separation actually mean, when is a separation agreement important, and what should you consider when making decisions about parenting, support, property and debt?

In my latest blog, I explain the key differences between separation and divorce, what makes a separation agreement legally binding, and why it is important to consider the full picture rather than trying to resolve individual issues in isolation.

Understanding your options can help you make informed decisions about your next steps.

One of the questions I am regularly asked as a family mediator is whether couples need to get legally separated before they can get divorced. Others want to

11/01/2026

Does choosing not to get married protect you from the financial consequences of separation?

Many people assume that if they never marry, they can avoid the legal and financial implications that can arise when a relationship ends. In British Columbia, that isn't necessarily the case.

Under BC's Family Law Act, unmarried couples who live together in a marriage-like relationship can acquire rights and responsibilities relating to property, debt and spousal support.

The timing matters, too. When you began living together, whether you later married, and the circumstances of your relationship can all be relevant.

In my latest blog, I explain what common law means in BC, how long you need to live together to qualify as spouses for certain purposes, and what you should understand about your rights and responsibilities if you separate.

Learn about common law in BC, how long it takes to qualify as a spouse, and what happens to property, debt and support after separation.

10/19/2026

I have learned many things from former FBI lead hostage negotiator Chris Voss. If you are in a conflict or disagreement with another person, it can be helpful to consider that the adversary is not the other person, the adversary is the situation, the other person is the counterpart struggling with some aspect of the same problem you are. This reframe or shift in thinking can lead to working together to solve the problem so that everyone is better off.

If you are looking for support during a separation or if you are facing challenges with your co-parent then check out my website for more information on how my mediation process can help here ➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

10/08/2026

We are fast approaching Canadian Thanksgiving.

As a mediator, I have written about four tips to help you shift your perspective and enjoy yourself more at your next Family Thanksgiving gathering.

Sometimes sidestepping the conflict is the best move. Read the short blog below to see if that might apply to your circumstance.

4 ways to sidestep family conflict at Thanksgiving, from a Victoria BC family mediation expert. Practical tips to keep the peace at the table.

09/25/2026

The best parenting plan may not be the most detailed one.

You can't anticipate every sports tournament, first job, school trip or opportunity that will come along as your children grow.

A good parenting plan provides structure and stability. A good mediation process can also help parents develop the skills to make decisions together when life doesn't go according to plan.

No agreement can predict the future, but parents can be better prepared for it.

Read the full blog below to learn more about what makes a good parenting plan and why the process used creating it matters.

A good separation parenting plan provides structure while allowing flexibility as children grow. Learn how mediation helps BC parents navigate decisions.

09/21/2026

There are 3 threads at the heart of every argument (Tammy Lenski)

1. Do you hear me?

This thread is about listening.

2. Do you see me?

This thread is about our natural human need to be seen as we know we truly are.

3. Does what I’m saying matter to you?

This thread is about acknowledgement and validation.

If you are looking for support during a separation or if you are facing challenges with your co-parent then check out my website for more information on how my mediation process can help here ➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

09/11/2026

Repost. This Blog got a lot of interest.
Also, let's not forget that cocktail parties / social gatherings are fun in the Fall too.

At social events, people are often curious about my work, how it’s different from therapy, whether people fight in the room (they don’t always!), and why would I ever want to do this work. I wrote this blog based on the real questions I get asked, the deeper ones.

If you’re thinking about separation or divorce, or are just curious about relationships and what happens when they change, this is for you.

Curious about family mediation in BC? Find out the top 3 questions people ask a family mediator and find out why mediation is helping BC families after divorce.

08/31/2026

Divorce negotiations are not about winning, they are about learning to collaborate in a new chapter.

If you are looking for support during a separation and want to co-create an agreement with support from an experienced mediator then check out my website for more information on how my mediation process can help➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

07/26/2026

Did you know that studies on youth mental health show that autonomy results in greater life satisfaction and mental well-being (i.e., fewer symptoms of depression and anxiety).

These studies show that self-determination is so important and underscores the importance of including children’s voices in family mediation.

I believe that this desire for autonomy only increases as we get older. So, if you are going through a separation or divorce why not choose a process that protects your decision making and control over your life, like mediation.

To learn more about me and my mediation process head to my website here ➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/

*Youth Development Instrument conducted a study in 2022/2023 with over 14,000 youth in BC

07/13/2026

As a Family Mediator, I help soon to be former spouses and co-parents reframe the wish behind the criticism if things get or start off rocky.

If you are looking for support during a separation or if you are facing challenges with your co-parent then check out my website for more information on how my mediation process can help here ➡️ https://victoriamediation.com/