Civitas Law
(647) 271-1646 Book a consultation
Toronto · Serving the GTA

Family Lawyer in Toronto

Clear, practical guidance through separation, divorce, parenting, and support, in English, French, Farsi, Russian and Serbian.

Book a consultationCall (647) 271-1646

30-minute consultation, $150 plus HST, paid when you book.

Family lawyer in Toronto meeting a client about separation Family Law
Overview

What a Toronto family lawyer handles

Family law in Toronto involves both federal and provincial legislation working together: the Divorce Act governs the dissolution of marriage itself, while Ontario's Family Law Act and Children's Law Reform Act govern property division, spousal support, and parenting arrangements for both married and common-law couples. Civitas Law assists clients with separation agreements, contested and uncontested divorces, custody and parenting time disputes, and support calculations.

We aim to resolve matters efficiently where possible, while preparing thoroughly for court when a fair resolution requires it.

How we help

Family law matters we handle in Toronto

Direct access to your lawyer at every stage, with clear, honest advice about your options.

Divorce applications (contested & uncontested)

We prepare and file divorce applications under the Divorce Act, whether the matter is fully agreed or requires negotiation.

Child custody and parenting time

We advise on decision-making responsibility and parenting time arrangements under the Children's Law Reform Act, always centred on the best interests of the child.

Child and spousal support

We calculate and negotiate support using the Child Support Guidelines and Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines.

Separation agreements

We draft and review separation agreements covering parenting, support, and property division to reduce the risk of future disputes.

Division of property and the matrimonial home

We advise on equalization of net family property and the special treatment of the matrimonial home under the Family Law Act.

Domestic contracts (marriage & cohabitation agreements)

We draft marriage contracts and cohabitation agreements for couples who want clarity before or during a relationship.

Family court motions and case conferences

We represent clients at case conferences, settlement conferences, and motions before the Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice.

Ontario context

How family law cases move through Ontario courts

Divorce itself is governed by the federal Divorce Act, but most of the practical issues that come with a separation, including property division, spousal support for common-law partners, and the matrimonial home, fall under Ontario's Family Law Act. Parenting arrangements for children are governed by the Children's Law Reform Act, which uses the best-interests-of-the-child standard rather than the older language of 'custody' and 'access.' In Toronto, family cases are heard in either the Ontario Court of Justice or the Superior Court of Justice, at 393 University Avenue and other family court locations, depending on whether a divorce is involved.

Ontario's Child Support Guidelines set out table amounts based on income and the number of children, and courts generally expect both parents to complete financial disclosure early in the process.

FAQs

Questions Toronto clients ask about family law

Plain-language answers to the questions we hear most. Every matter is different, so treat these as a starting point.

How much does a divorce cost in Ontario?
An uncontested divorce with an agreed separation agreement often costs a few thousand dollars including court fees, while a contested divorce that proceeds toward trial can run considerably higher depending on the issues in dispute. We provide a realistic estimate based on your specific situation before you commit to a process.
Do I need to be separated for a set amount of time before divorcing in Ontario?
The most common ground for divorce under the Divorce Act is one year of separation, though divorce can proceed sooner in limited circumstances such as adultery or cruelty. Living separately does not require moving out of the same home, provided you're living separate lives.
How is child support calculated in Ontario?
Child support generally follows the federal Child Support Guidelines table amount based on the paying parent's income and the number of children, with additional 'special expenses' shared proportionally. Support can be adjusted for shared or split parenting time arrangements.
What's the difference between separation and divorce?
Separation happens when a couple stops living together as a couple, and it can trigger property and support rights immediately, while divorce is the formal legal end of the marriage itself. Many people negotiate a separation agreement well before applying for divorce.
Do both parents automatically get equal parenting time?
Ontario law does not presume an automatic 50/50 split; parenting time is decided based on the best interests of the child, considering factors like each parent's involvement, the child's needs, and stability. Courts increasingly favour arrangements that maximize a child's meaningful relationship with both parents where safe and appropriate.
Can we handle our divorce without going to court in person?
Many uncontested divorces and even contested matters that settle can be resolved largely through paper filings, negotiation, or mediation without a trial. We aim to keep matters out of the courtroom where possible, while preparing for litigation when it's necessary to protect your interests.
What is a family lawyer?
A family lawyer handles legal matters that arise within families, such as separation, divorce, child custody and access, child and spousal support, and division of property. In Ontario, family lawyers work with both provincial family law and, where a marriage is ending, the federal Divorce Act.
Do I need a family lawyer for an uncontested divorce in Ontario?
It is not legally required, since a person can file an uncontested divorce application without a lawyer, but a lawyer helps ensure the paperwork is complete and correctly filed, which can prevent rejections and delays at the court office. This is especially useful when property or support issues are also involved.
What is the difference between mediation and litigation in family law?
Mediation involves a neutral third party helping a separating couple negotiate their own agreement outside of court, while litigation involves a judge deciding contested issues after each side presents its case. Mediation is often faster and less costly, but it depends on both parties being willing to cooperate.
Can a family lawyer represent both spouses in Toronto?
A family lawyer in Ontario cannot represent both spouses in the same matter because their interests may conflict, which creates a conflict of interest. Each spouse should retain independent legal advice from a separate lawyer, though some couples use a neutral mediator to help negotiate an agreement together.
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Ready to talk?

Straightforward legal advice from a Toronto lawyer.

30-minute consultation, $150 plus HST, paid when you book. Personal injury matters start with a free 10-minute case review with the lawyer. Consultations are confidential.

Book a consultationCall (647) 271-1646