Navigating separation and divorce in Ontario can be daunting, but a wealth of resources is available to help guide you through the process. This guide includes essential resources complete with links and contact information, offering legal information, support services, and practical tools to assist individuals during this challenging time.
Legal Information and Guidance
- Steps to Justice (Community Legal Education Ontario – CLEO): Offers comprehensive information on family law. Visit Steps to Justice.
- Family Law Information Centres (FLIC) (Ministry of the Attorney General): Provides public information about family law services. Learn about FLIC.
- What You Should Know About Family Law in Ontario (Ministry of the Attorney General): A helpful brochure outlining the basics of family law in Ontario. Read the brochure.
- Family Law Services (Ministry of the Attorney General): Overview of government-provided services to assist with family law issues. Explore Family Law Services.
- Guided Pathways to Family Court Forms (CLEO): Simplifies the preparation of family court documents. Start using Guided Pathways.
Court Procedures and Forms
- Family Law Rules: Detailed rules governing family law cases in Ontario courts. Access Family Law Rules.
- Ontario Court Family Forms: Necessary forms for proceeding with family law cases. View Family Forms.
- Superior Court of Justice Practice Directions: Guidelines and procedures for the Superior Court of Justice. Read Practice Directions.
- My Support Calculator: An online tool for estimating child and spousal support amounts. Use My Support Calculator.
Mediation and Dispute Resolution
- Court-Connected Family Mediation Programs (Ministry of the Attorney General Ontario): Information on mediation programs available in Ontario courts. Learn about Mediation Programs.
- Ontario Association for Family Mediation: Find an accredited private mediator. Visit OAFM.
Support for Children and Addressing Family Violence
- Talking to Children About Divorce and Separation (Ministry of the Attorney General Ontario): Guidance for discussing separation and divorce with children. Read the Guide.
- Assaulted Women’s Helpline: Offers assistance for women experiencing violence. Visit AWHL or call 1-866-863-0511.
Emotional and Mental Health Support
- Canadian Mental Health Association: Provides services for mental health support. Visit CMHA or find your local CMHA branch for more specific support options.
Legal Services and Support
- Law Society Referral Service (Law Society of Ontario): Referrals to lawyers and paralegals, offering a 30-minute free consultation. Find Legal Help or call 1-855-947-5255 or 416-947-5255 (within the GTA).
- Legal Aid Ontario: Offers free advice and representation for eligible individuals. Visit Legal Aid Ontario or call toll-free 1-800-668-8258.
- Justice Net: Provides legal services at reduced rates based on income. Explore Justice Net or call 1-866-919-3219.
By utilizing these resources, you can gain the knowledge and support necessary to manage the legal process more effectively and make informed decisions for your future. It’s important to remember that while the journey may seem daunting, you are not alone. The array of resources, tools, and support systems outlined here serves as a testament to the help available to guide you through this challenging period.
Let this guide be your beacon, illuminating the path forward with clarity and hope. The resources and information provided are not just tools but lifelines, designed to anchor you in knowledge and empower you with choice.
Michelle Mulchan, Senior Managing Lawyer
Remember, the decisions you make today will lay the foundation for your tomorrow, and with the right support, you can navigate this transition with strength and grace.
With each step, you are not just navigating legal challenges; you are charting a course towards a future filled with possibility.
