As artificial-intelligence companions grow more sophisticated, the impact on long-term relationships is emerging as a serious consideration in family law. While many people view AI chatbots as benign helpers, some spouses in struggling marriages are turning to these digital partners and legal professionals are warning that these dynamics may soon trigger a surge in separation and divorce filings.
Emotional Attachment and AI: The Changing Landscape
Studies show that around 60 % of singles in recent surveys consider an AI relationship to be a form of cheating. That statistic indicates the private behaviours of couples are shifting and so are the legal questions that attend them.
Why Family Lawyers Are Paying Attention
In Ontario, family-law practitioners already see warning signs:
- One spouse may redirect marital funds toward AI subscriptions or apps, triggering concerns about dissipation of assets.
- Emotional intimacy with an AI companion may reduce engagement in the marriage, creating room for claims of neglect or breakdown.
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Although Ontario is a no-fault jurisdiction (under the Divorce Act, couples don’t need to prove “fault” to divorce), the behaviour may still affect property division and support calculations if it impacts contributions or income.
Emerging Legal Issues: Infidelity, Technology & Evidence
While Ontario law does not treat AI affairs the same as human ones, the consequences can be similar in practice:
- Evidence of excessive spending on a partner’s AI companion can be included in financial disclosure and property-division negotiations.
- In custody and parenting evaluations, the involvement of a parent with an AI partner may be raised as a question of parenting time, supervision or role-modelling.
- As AI becomes increasingly lifelike, we may see new case law or legislative changes in Canada that address the role of AI in relationship breakdowns.
Practical Steps for Ontario Couples & Their Legal Advisors
For couples:
- Be vigilant about shared-account spending and transparency around digital-subscription use.
- Maintain open, honest discussions about emotional needs and the role of technology in your relationship.
- Consider professional support (counselling or mediation) early if one partner pursues an AI companion in lieu of the marriage.
For legal advisors and firms:
- Develop an intake checklist that asks about use of digital companions or non-traditional relationships.
- Educate clients on how AI-related spending or emotional withdrawal may influence financial or parenting matters.
- Monitor legislative developments in Canada and the U.S. related to AI companionship, as they may shape future case law in Ontario.
Looking Ahead: A Looming “Divorce Boom” or An Opportunity for Dialogue?
Some analysts forecast a rise in divorce filings triggered, in part, by AI intimacy. For Ontario-based practitioners, this may mean preparing for a new dimension of family-law practice.
However, the story isn’t solely negative: AI companions can also act as support systems in otherwise isolated lives, provided they’re integrated healthily into a real-world relationship. The key is awareness and alignment within the marriage—not avoidance of new technology.
Note: This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice specific to your situation, speak directly with a licensed family-law practitioner in Ontario.
