Family Law Help in Ontario
This page is general information for people in Ontario. It is not legal advice, and Law HelpLine is not a law firm. Laws and deadlines change and every situation is different, so check your own facts with a licensed lawyer or paralegal.
Family law deals with what happens when a relationship ends or when a family needs legal decisions made. In Ontario that usually means parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, dividing property and, for married couples, divorce.
Common family law issues
- Separation and separation agreements. You do not have to go to court to separate. Many people sign a written agreement that covers parenting, support and property.
- Divorce. Divorce is governed by the federal Divorce Act. The usual ground is a one year separation. At least one spouse must have lived in Ontario for 12 months before applying.
- Parenting time and decision making. Decisions are based on the best interests of the child.
- Child and spousal support. Child support is usually calculated using the Federal Child Support Guidelines. Spousal support depends on factors such as the length of the relationship and each person’s needs and ability to pay.
- Property. Married spouses in Ontario generally share the growth in value of property during the marriage through a process called equalization under the Family Law Act. Rules for unmarried partners are different, and the family home has special rules.
Court is not the only path
Mediation, negotiation between lawyers and collaborative approaches can settle many disputes with less cost and stress. Courthouses also have Family Law Information Centres that give general information, and Legal Aid Ontario may help some people with low incomes.
Safety first
If you or your children are in danger, call 911. Urgent safety concerns can be raised with the court quickly. A lawyer can explain protection orders and other options.
Before your first meeting
- Dates of marriage, cohabitation and separation
- Names and birthdates of children
- Recent income documents for both spouses
- A list of assets and debts
- Any existing agreements or court orders
Finding a lawyer or paralegal
Law HelpLine is an independent legal information website. We are not a law firm and we do not give legal advice. To find a licensed lawyer or paralegal, use the Ontario government’s Find a lawyer or paralegal page or the Law Society of Ontario directory at lso.ca. If you are in danger, call 911.