What are my rights if we separate?

I strongly suggest that you seek advice from a family law lawyer by way of a consultation. Also, you should browse the articles and information on the "divorce-canada.ca" website. You need to consider the different dispute resolution processes available, such as, negotiation, mediation, mediation-arbitration, and litigation. Regardless of the dispute resolution process, the parties will need to complete full financial disclosure, including, valuations of assets, and supporting documents on all assets and debts as at the date of separation. Saying that, you would need to determine whether the parties agree on the separation date. It appears that the issues are property division or equalization and spousal support, but of course there are other issues, such as health coverage, life insurance, etc. The financial disclosure step, mutual with each party, is fundamental before being able to say how things should be resolved and on what basis or terms.