A short, calm starting point. Choose the situation closest to yours below.
If you are dealing with a separation, a parenting question, a support issue, or anything else touching family law in Ontario, it can be hard to know where to begin. This page is a starting point: a short set of common situations, each linking to the plain-language guides most people in that situation find useful first.
There is no need to read everything at once, and no required order. Pick whichever situation below sounds closest to yours.
What separation generally means in Ontario, and the practical first steps many people consider.
Start hereParenting time, decision-making responsibility, parenting plans, and what courts generally focus on.
Start hereHow child support and spousal support are generally approached in Ontario.
Start hereProperty division, the matrimonial home, and financial disclosure after separation.
Start hereA general look at how the family court process works, step by step.
Start hereSeparation agreements, mediation, and negotiating a settlement.
Start hereIn immediate danger? Don't wait to work through this page — call 911, or see Urgent Help & Safety for crisis and safety resources.
If you have family-law related questions and would like to speak to an Ontario family lawyer for a 30-minute free consultation, please fill out this form.