Family law in Ontario is a branch of law that deals with the rights and responsibilities of family members, particularly spouses, partners, parents, and children. It governs how relationships are legally recognized and how obligations are enforced when relationships change or end.
Core Principles of Family Law
At its heart, family law is about two main things:
- Rights – What the law says you are entitled to (for example, property division, support payments, or decision-making authority for children).
- Responsibilities – What the law says you must do (such as paying child support, sharing property, or ensuring a child’s well-being).
Your rights and responsibilities can differ depending on your relationship status, such as whether you are:
- Married
- Living common-law (living together in a marriage-like relationship without being legally married)
- Separated or divorced
What Does Family Law Cover?
In Ontario, family law covers a wide range of issues, including:
- Marriage and divorce – The legal process for entering or ending a marriage.
- Separation – Rights and obligations when spouses or partners end their relationship.
- Parenting arrangements – Who makes decisions for the child (decision-making responsibility) and how much time the child spends with each parent (parenting time).
- Child and spousal support – Financial contributions to support children or a former spouse.
- Property division – How assets and debts are divided after a marriage ends.
- Family violence and safety – Legal protections like restraining orders.
Why Is Family Law Important?
Family law aims to protect vulnerable family members, ensure fairness, and promote the best interests of children. It provides legal frameworks for resolving disputes, either through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings.
