Beatrice McCutcheon

Specializing exclusively in this field, Beatrice, affectionately known as Bea, offers her clients comprehensive legal counsel on a multitude of issues that emerge from the dissolution of both married and common-law relationships. Her proficiency extends to the equitable division of family assets, determining parenting arrangements, and negotiating child and spousal support agreements.

Bea's commitment to her clients doesn't stop at providing legal advice; she is deeply involved in the drafting and negotiation of cohabitation and marriage agreements. Her expertise is particularly notable in matters concerning the division of pensions post-marriage breakdown, where she skillfully crafts pension division clauses for inclusion in separation agreements or court mandates.

Recognizing that every family situation is unique, Bea is adept at guiding her clients through the maze of dispute resolution. She champions negotiation as the first line of approach in resolving conflicts. However, understanding that not all disputes can be resolved amicably, she is also well-versed in employing mediation, other dispute resolution techniques, and, when necessary, litigation to protect her clients' interests.

Beyond her direct client services, Bea is a respected voice in the family law community, regularly sharing her knowledge and insights as a presenter and author. Her contributions to the Continuing Legal Education Society of BC’s Family Law Agreements Annotated Precedents highlight her as a thought leader, especially in the realm of agreement drafting.

Her professional affiliations are extensive, including memberships in the Law Society of BC, the Canadian Bar Association, and the Victoria Bar Association, to name a few. She also plays an active role in specialized groups like the Victoria Collaborative Family Separation Professionals and the CBA’s BC Branch sections on Family Law and Women Lawyers Forum on Vancouver Island.

Bea's dedication to the advancement of family law is further evidenced by her involvement in pivotal projects and her prolific output as a co-author and speaker. From her work with the BC Law Institute’s Pension Division Review Project to her insightful presentations on the nuances of family law agreements, Bea's contributions enrich the legal landscape.

Her educational background, with a BA from the University of British Columbia followed by an LLB from the University of Victoria, laid the foundation for her distinguished career. Admitted to practice in 2003, Bea's journey in law has been marked by a commitment to excellence, a passion for family law, and a steadfast dedication to her clients' well-being. Her work not only addresses the complexities of the present but also paves the way for future developments in the field.