Usually common-law is only applied in court proceedings when there is a dispute in finances, property or children. Everyone I know that cohabitated with their ex-partners just broke up, moved out and that was it (and later married other people or lived with other people) even when there were joint expenses, etc. There were never any disputes though so nothing every went to court.
Not sure what province she is in, but this is from a legal advice booklet in Ontario: http://www.cleo.on.ca/english/pub/onpub/PD.../livtogethr.pdf
But a common-law relationship is defined by two people living together as a couple. If you do not live together, you are not considered to be in a common-law relationship. If you have been living together but then stop, you are no longer common-law spouses. You do not have to take any formal steps or legal action in order to end the relationship. Also, no matter how long you live as a couple in a common-law relationship, your common-law status does not change. You never become married unless you go through a legally recognized marriage ceremony. If you live with someone in a common-law relationship, it is important to know the similarities and differences between that and marriage. For example, to secure some things such as an inheritance, or division of property if you separate, you must take extra steps that are not necessary if you are married.
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