Family
About This Practice
Family law in Ontario sits across two laws: the federal Divorce Act governs divorce itself, while Ontario's Family Law Act covers property division, support, and parenting issues. To file for divorce here, you or your spouse must have lived in Ontario for at least one year. The most common ground is simply living separate and apart for one year.
The language now focuses on children, not parental rights. The old terms "custody" and "access" are now decision-making responsibility (who makes major choices about school, health, and religion) and parenting time (the schedule of when a child is with each parent). Child support follows the Federal Child Support Guidelines, based on income and the number of children. Spousal support depends on the relationship's length, each person's role, and the financial impact of the separation.
Most Ontario family cases also require a short Mandatory Information Program session early in the process. Many matters settle without a trial.
How We Work
We know separation is hard, and we keep things calm and constructive wherever possible. We explain your rights and options clearly, look for fair resolutions through negotiation or mediation first, and stand firmly with you in court when that is what is needed. Your family's wellbeing — especially your children's — guides the work.
Contact the firm to speak with a lawyer in this practice area.
Frequently Asked
For a divorce based on marriage breakdown, the most common path is living separate and apart for one year. You can still sort out parenting, support, and property issues during that year, and you can begin the process before the year is up.
Child support follows the Federal Child Support Guidelines, based mainly on the paying parent’s gross income and the number of children. The tables set standard amounts. Special expenses, like childcare or medical costs, can be added on top.
Decision-making responsibility is the authority to make major decisions about your child — education, health, and religion. Parenting time is the schedule of when the child is in each parent’s care. Ontario adopted these terms to keep the focus on children’s needs.