How to Find a Family Lawyer 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.
A family lawyer can be a big help in a separation, but finding the right one takes some care. Here is a simple approach.
Decide what you need
Do you need a one time review of a separation agreement, help negotiating, or someone to go to court with you? Some lawyers offer limited services for part of a case, which can cost less.
Where to look
- Ask people you trust who have been through it
- Use the Law Society of Ontario’s lawyer directory
- Look into the Law Society Referral Service (see our resources page)
- Check Legal Aid Ontario if money is tight
Check the basics
- Is the lawyer licensed and in good standing?
- Do they practise family law regularly?
- Do they work in the court where your case would be heard?
Ask about money
- Hourly rate and who else bills on your file
- The retainer, which is the up front deposit
- How often you will be billed
- A rough range of total cost
Judge the fit
Pay attention to how the lawyer listens and explains. You need someone who gives you honest views, even when they are not what you hoped to hear, and who responds in a reasonable time.
What to bring
Bring ID, a timeline, financial documents, and any agreements or court papers. See also our guide to first meeting questions.
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.