How to Draft a Separation Agreement in Alberta (Without Full Representation)
When a relationship ends, one of the most important steps is deciding how to divide property, handle support, and outline parenting arrangements. For many people, that means creating a separation agreement.
But here’s the good news: you don’t always need to hire a lawyer for full representation to make your agreement valid. In Alberta, you can use unbundled family law services to get the targeted help you need.
What is a Separation Agreement?
A separation agreement is a written contract between former spouses or partners that sets out how you will deal with:
Property division
Parenting responsibilities
Child support
Spousal support
When drafted and signed properly, it provides clarity, avoids disputes, and can prevent future court battles.
What Makes a Separation Agreement Binding in Alberta?
For the property terms of a separation agreement to be legally enforceable under the Family Property Act (FPA), two things are required:
Written agreement – Clearly setting out how property will be divided.
Independent Legal Advice (ILA) – Each party must review the agreement with their own lawyer, who signs a certificate confirming the party understands the agreement and is signing voluntarily.
Without ILA, the agreement might not hold up in court.
Do You Need Full Representation?
No. Full legal representation isn’t always necessary. Many Albertans choose limited scope services — where a lawyer helps with drafting, reviewing, or explaining the agreement, but you remain in control of the process.
For example, you might:
Draft your agreement with a lawyer’s guidance.
Have the lawyer review and finalize it for enforceability.
Each party then signs with their own lawyer providing ILA.
How I Help in My Practice
In my practice, I:
Draft and finalize separation agreements tailored to your situation.
Explain what the law requires so your agreement is enforceable.
Provide unbundled services so you only pay for the help you actually need.
I don’t take over your entire case. Instead, I give you the tools and documents to move forward with clarity and confidence.
Final Thoughts
If you’re separating in Alberta, don’t leave things vague or rely on a handshake. A clear, enforceable separation agreement is your roadmap forward. And with unbundled legal services, you can get it done efficiently and affordably.
👉 Ready to get started? Request a strategy consultation today