Ontario courts prioritize the best interests of the child when determining decision-making responsibility and parenting time (formerly custody and access). Factors include:

The child’s emotional and physical needs.

Each parent’s ability to provide a stable environment.

The child’s relationship with each parent and extended family.

Any history of family violence or neglect.

Child support is based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which consider:

The paying parent’s gross income.

The number of children.

Additional expenses (e.g., daycare, medical, extracurricular activities).

Even if the other parent is not involved in the child’s life, they are still legally required to pay support.

Yes, grandparents can apply for decision-making responsibility (custody) or contact orders (visitation). The court considers the child’s best interests and whether the grandparents have played a significant role in the child's life.

A parent with decision-making responsibility or parenting time must give at least 60 days’ notice before relocating. If the other parent objects, the court will decide based on factors like:

The reason for the move.

The impact on the child’s relationship with the other parent.

Whether the move improves the child’s well-being.

In Ontario, common-law couples do not have the same property rights as married couples. However:

They may be entitled to spousal support if they lived together for at least 3 years or have a child together.

They do not automatically split property—each person keeps what they own, unless there’s an unjust enrichment claim.

If you are experiencing domestic violence, you can:

Apply for a restraining order through Family Court.

Seek an emergency protection order or exclusive possession of the family home.

Contact local shelters or support services for assistance.

Family law courts take abuse seriously when deciding parenting arrangements.

Spousal support is based on factors such as:

The length of the relationship.

Each person’s financial situation and ability to be self-sufficient.

Whether one spouse sacrificed career opportunities for the relationship.

The Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAGs) help determine the amount, but courts have discretion in each case.

Yes, adopting a child in Ontario typically requires legal guidance. The adoption process includes:

A home study assessment.

A background check.

Court applications to finalize the adoption.

Whether adopting through a private agency, internationally, or as a step-parent, legal assistance ensures the process follows all legal requirements.

No. A parent cannot deny the other parent access unless there is a court order stating otherwise. If a parent refuses parenting time, the affected parent can:

Apply for an enforcement order.

Request a modification of parenting arrangements if refusal is ongoing.