How Ontario is working towards a simplified family law dispute process

On September 24, 2020, Ontario introduced new legislation to make it easier, faster, and more affordable for individuals and families to resolve family legal matters called the Moving Ontario Family Law Forward Act, 2020. If this legislation is passed, it will help modernize and update the current family law system in place and simplify appeal routes and online child support services.

A few changes within the new legislation include:

1. The family law appeals process will become easier to navigate by clarifying how to appeal family law cases, how to help families reach final decisions faster in difficult cases, making the appeals process more consistent no matter where their trial is heard
2. Ontario’s family laws will support the federal changes to the Divorce Act. This includes changes such as modernizing the language used to describe custody and access, so they are coherent and simplified.
3. Parents will be allowed to obtain certified copies of child support notices from the online child support service so support amounts can be more easily managed or enforced outside the province.
4. Ontario will be removing the requirement for family arbitrators to file arbitration award reports with the ministry, saving time and money.

Overall, what this means is that the family law system will become easier to navigate, saving families time and stress in the long run. It will also mean less money spent on paperwork, and more DIY options will become available for settling disputes if you don’t have the funds for a lawyer. So, whether you are unable to afford a lawyer or not, need assistance navigating the paperwork, or just need advice on what steps you should take, we would be glad to assist you here at Galbraith Family Law. Whatever your specific needs may be, our experienced family law team can help ease the stress of your situation, help you make informed decisions, and point you in the direction you need to go to move past the issue at hand. If you have questions or you’re ready to take the next step in resolving your family law issue, give us a call at (705) 727-4242 & let’s work together to resolve your family law dispute one step at a time.