Family Court & Litigation

In Ontario, family court proceedings are governed by the Family Law Rules and typically begin with an Application (for new matters) or a Motion to Change (for existing orders). The process includes serving and filing of documents, responding within set timelines, and attending various stages of court appearances and conferences, such as the First Appearance, Case Conference, Settlement Conference, and ultimately trial if the matter is not resolved earlier. Throughout this process, parties are required to prepare and exchange detailed documentation, including Financial Statements, Briefs, and Offers to Settle.

The court’s goal at each stage is to encourage settlement, ensure full disclosure, and narrow the issues in dispute. Motions for temporary orders may be brought at certain stages, particularly in cases of urgency. If the case proceeds to trial, it will be scheduled and managed through a Trial Management Conference. The trial itself is governed by specific rules of procedure and evidence, culminating in a final decision from the judge. Beyond the main hearing stages, the Family Law Rules also govern the service of documents, timelines, financial disclosure, questioning, and the awarding of costs. Litigation can be complex and time-consuming, but in certain cases, it provides the structure and authority needed to resolve high-conflict or urgent matters effectively.