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Custody Agreements Ontario

gtadivorce · June 4, 2025 ·

Custody Agreements in Ontario: A Real Talk Guide for Parents

When You Just Want What’s Best for Your Kids

There’s no manual for navigating a breakup or divorce—especially when kids are involved. One minute you’re juggling pick-ups and piano lessons as a family, and the next, you’re trying to figure out who gets what weekends.

Welcome to the world of custody agreements in Ontario. It’s not glamorous. It’s not easy. But it matters—deeply. Because at the end of the day (scratch that—every day), your child’s stability and emotional well-being are on the line.

Let’s strip away the courtroom lingo, get past the “legalese,” and talk like two people who just want kids to be okay. Sound good?

So… What Is a Custody Agreement?

In plain English? A custody agreement is a written plan that outlines how separated or divorced parents will care for and raise their child.

Legally, it’s more structured. It says:

Who makes important decisions (like schooling, medical care, religion, etc.)
When each parent spends time with the child
How communication and responsibilities are handled

These agreements can be informal (a written understanding between you and your ex), or formalized into a court order. Some couples figure it out on their own. Others need lawyers or the court to step in.

What’s important is that the agreement reflects what’s best for the child—not just what’s easiest or “fair” for the adults.

Ontario Has Updated Language—Here’s What That Means

Thanks to updates to the federal Divorce Act and Ontario’s Children’s Law Reform Act, the language around custody has changed. These days, we talk about:

Decision-making responsibility (instead of “custody”)
Parenting time (instead of “access” or “visitation”)

Why the change? Because these terms reflect what’s really going on. It’s not about possession—it’s about responsibility, presence, and care.

Types of Custody (a.k.a. Decision-Making Responsibility)

Here’s how it generally breaks down in Ontario:

✅ Sole Decision-Making Responsibility

One parent has the exclusive right to make major decisions about the child’s life. Think: healthcare, education, extracurriculars, religion. The other parent may still have parenting time, but no say in those big-picture choices.

This is typically used in high-conflict situations, or when the other parent isn’t involved or available.

✅ Joint Decision-Making Responsibility

Both parents must agree on major decisions. It works best when communication is solid and mutual respect still exists (even if the relationship didn’t work out romantically).

✅ Split Responsibility

In rare cases—often when there’s more than one child—parents divide decision-making by child. For example: one child primarily with Parent A, another with Parent B.

✅ Shared Parenting Time (Not the Same as Shared Custody!)

This refers to time, not decision-making. If each parent has the child 40% of the time or more, it may be considered shared parenting time. This matters for emotional bonding and child support calculations.

Wait—What’s in a Custody Agreement Besides Decision-Making?

A well-made custody agreement covers more than just who makes decisions. It should include:

A regular parenting schedule (weekdays, weekends, holidays, school breaks)
Exchange details (who drops off/picks up, and when)
Vacation and travel rules (especially for out-of-province or international trips)
Communication expectations (with both the child and the other parent)
Conflict resolution methods (mediation? renegotiation timelines?)

Think of it like a co-parenting manual. The clearer it is, the fewer fights you’ll have down the road.

What If You and Your Ex Agree on Everything?

First off—bravo. That’s no small feat.

If you’re aligned on parenting, you can draw up your own written custody agreement. But—and this is big—you should still get it reviewed by a family lawyer and possibly file it with the court. Why?

Because people change. Circumstances change. And if one parent later breaks the agreement? You’ll want the legal weight to enforce it.

Need help getting it drafted or reviewed? Check our pricing to see how affordable legal guidance can actually be, or reach out here.

What If You Can’t Agree? (Hint: You’re Not Alone)

Plenty of parents just can’t get on the same page. And that’s okay. There are still options before you head to court.

🔹 Mediation

You and your ex work with a neutral third party to create an agreement. It’s voluntary, confidential, and way less combative than a court case.

🔹 Arbitration

A private decision-maker (sort of like a judge, but less formal) hears both sides and makes a binding decision. This works well if you want a quicker result and more privacy than public court.

🔹 Collaborative Family Law

Each parent hires a specially trained lawyer, and everyone agrees not to go to court. You negotiate together in a structured process.

🔹 Going to Court

If nothing else works, court is an option—but it’s the most expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally taxing route. Courts will always put the child’s best interests first. But if you’re in a high-conflict situation, it may be the only safe or viable path.

The Best Interests of the Child: Always the Bottom Line

Let’s not lose sight of this.

In Ontario, the courts—and every decent lawyer or mediator—base all decisions on one question: What’s best for the child?

They’ll look at:

The child’s relationship with each parent
Stability of home environments
Emotional, psychological, and physical needs
The ability of each parent to provide love, guidance, and structure
The child’s own views (if they’re old/mature enough to express them)

It’s not about punishing one parent or rewarding the other. It’s about building a healthy, supportive future for your kid.

Can a Custody Agreement Be Changed Later?

Absolutely. Life happens.

Maybe you move.
Maybe your job schedule shifts.
Maybe your child’s needs change as they grow.

The good news? Custody agreements in Ontario can be updated—if both parents agree. If they don’t, you can ask the court to vary the agreement. You’ll have to prove that there’s been a material change in circumstances that affects the child’s well-being.

Just don’t go rogue. Making your own changes without agreement or court approval can land you in hot water.

What If One Parent Breaks the Agreement?

Let’s be honest—it happens.

One parent doesn’t show up for their parenting time. Or picks up the child on the wrong day. Or makes a major decision (like switching schools) without consulting the other parent.

When that happens, you’ve got options:

Talk it out (if it’s safe and reasonable)
Use mediation to resolve the conflict
Document everything (texts, missed pick-ups, etc.)
Apply to enforce the agreement through the court

If child support is also involved, the Family Responsibility Office can enforce payments by garnishing wages, suspending licenses, and more.

Tips to Make Shared Custody Actually Work

This isn’t legal advice—it’s parenting wisdom, gathered from real families who’ve been through it.

Stick to the schedule. Kids crave predictability.
Speak positively about the other parent. Your child is half them, after all.
Use tech wisely. Shared calendars, co-parenting apps, even just clear texts help avoid confusion.
Don’t compete. You’re not in a popularity contest.
Check your ego. This is about your child’s peace of mind—not proving a point.

And when it gets tough? Remind yourself: “I’m doing this for them. Not for me.”

A Note on DIY Agreements (a gentle caution)

There’s something appealing about working it all out without the legal system involved. And sometimes it works beautifully. But without legal backing, even the most well-meaning agreement can fall apart.

If you’re going the DIY route, at least get a lawyer to review it. Or better yet, consider a flat-rate package to formalize it properly without blowing your savings.

You can view our flat-rate options here or book a free consultation to talk through what makes sense for your situation.

This Isn’t Just Paperwork—It’s Their Childhood

Let’s bring it back to what really matters.

Custody agreements aren’t just about legal boxes or parenting “wins.” They’re about setting up a stable, loving, functional system that allows your child to thrive. Even if the grown-ups couldn’t make it work, your child can still grow up knowing they’re supported and cared for—every step of the way.

So take the time. Ask the hard questions. Get the help you need. And remember: it’s not about who’s right. It’s about what’s right for your child.

Need Help With a Custody Agreement in Ontario?

Whether you need guidance, drafting support, or legal backup—we’re here to make this process a whole lot easier (and a lot less expensive than you’d expect).

👉 Book your free consultation
👉 Contact us for any questions
👉 Learn about our flat-rate pricing
👉 Read more about how we work

Divorce Rates in Canada

gtadivorce · June 1, 2025 ·

What the Numbers Really Show

We all know someone who’s been through a divorce. Maybe it’s a friend, a sibling, or you. But what do the numbers say? Is divorce actually as common as it seems — or are things changing?

If you’ve ever wondered about divorce rates in Canada, here’s a closer look at the data from Statistics Canada, what’s shifting, and why it matters.

This isn’t legal advice — just insight and context.

What the Latest Stats Say

According to Statistics Canada, there were 42,933 divorces in 2020 — the lowest number since 1973. That’s down from 56,937 in 2019, a drop of about 25%.

Some of that is due to pandemic-related court closures, but the overall trend has been downward since the early 1990s. Canada’s refined divorce rate (which looks at the number of divorces per 1,000 married people) fell from 12.7 in 1991 to 5.6 in 2020.

Visualizing the Trend

Here’s a chart showing how the refined divorce rate in Canada has changed from 1991 to 2020:

As you can see, the decline has been steady, with an extra dip in 2020 due to COVID disruptions.

Why Divorce Rates Are Dropping

Here are some of the biggest reasons behind the decline:

People are marrying later (or not at all).
Common-law relationships are increasingly common — and they aren’t tracked in divorce stats.
Older married couples are staying together more than younger ones did in the past.
Younger people who do marry seem less likely to divorce than their parents’ generation.

All of these factors contribute to the slower pace of formal divorces.

Who’s Most Likely to Divorce?

According to data from 2016–2020:

Divorce rates peak in the 40–44 age range.
Divorce is least common among people under 25 and those over 50 (though “grey divorce” is rising).
Women under 35 are more likely to file than men.
Men over 50 have slightly higher divorce rates than women in the same age group.

(Source: Statistics Canada Table 39-10-0041-01)

Does Divorce Vary by Province?

Yes — Canada isn’t one-size-fits-all.

For example:

Yukon had the highest divorce rate between 2016 and 2020, averaging 12.8 per 1,000 married people.
Nunavut had the lowest, around 2.4 per 1,000.
Ontario is close to the national average, with 2020’s rate near 5.6.

(Source: StatCan Table 39-10-0040-01)

Cultural and economic differences across provinces play a big role in these numbers.

How Does Canada Compare to Other Countries?

Globally, Canada’s crude divorce rate (2.1 per 1,000 people) ranks in the mid-range:

It’s lower than the U.S., where divorce rates remain higher overall.
It’s higher than some European countries, like Italy or Spain, where divorce is less culturally normalized.

Still, about 40% of Canadian marriages end in divorce — which lines up with averages across much of the Western world.

(Source: OECD Family Database)

Why These Numbers Matter

They tell us that divorce is still common, but less so than before.
They show that younger generations may be more intentional about marriage — or avoiding it altogether.
They give us a lens into how culture, gender, and age shape family life across the country.

FAQs – Divorce Rates in Canada

Q: Why was 2020 such a low year for divorce?
Because of the pandemic, many courts paused family proceedings. Also, the one-year separation rule meant fewer filings that year.

Q: What’s the “refined divorce rate”?
It’s the number of divorces per 1,000 married people — giving a more accurate picture than just the raw count.

Q: Are common-law breakups included in these numbers?
No. Only legal divorces (from formal marriages) are counted in the data.

Q: Is divorce among older adults increasing?
Yes — especially those over 50, a trend often called “grey divorce.”

Q: Is Canada’s divorce rate high or low?
Compared to the global average, it’s moderate. It has dropped significantly over the past three decades.

Bottom Line: The Numbers Are Just Part of the Story

Whether you’re in a long-term marriage or thinking about separation, understanding divorce rates in Canada can put your experience into a broader context. You’re not alone — but you’re also not a statistic.

Behind every number is a person figuring things out, trying to heal, and hopefully moving toward something better.

This article provides general information, not legal advice. Contact us today if you want to speak to a divorce lawyer.

Useful Links:
Family court website
Government website
Child support agreements
Parenting arrangements
Spousal support
Dividing property
Contact Us
Pricing
Free Consultation

Automatic Divorce After Long Separation in Canada

gtadivorce · May 28, 2025 ·

Automatic Divorce After Long Separation in Canada: Is That Even a Thing?

You ever hear someone say, “Oh, we’ve been separated for years—doesn’t that mean we’re automatically divorced?” Yeah, it sounds believable. Maybe even convenient. But here’s the twist: in Canada—especially here in Ontario—that’s not how it works.

Life happens. People grow apart. Maybe you both moved on long ago, haven’t spoken in ages, or you’re living completely separate lives under the same roof. But no matter how many years have passed, there’s no magic switch that turns “separated” into “divorced.”

Let’s clear up the confusion, because the line between emotional closure and legal finality isn’t always as obvious as it should be.

What Separation Really Means in Ontario (And Why It’s Not the Same as Divorce)

First off, let’s talk about separation—because it’s the word that gets tossed around like a tennis ball in family law conversations.

In Ontario, separation simply means you and your spouse are no longer living together as a couple. You might not sleep in the same room. You might not share meals. The emotional and romantic connection is gone, and at least one of you intends it to stay that way.

Now here’s the kicker: you don’t need to file anything to be “separated.” You don’t need a judge. You don’t even need your partner to agree.

You can be legally separated even if you’re living under the same roof. Happens all the time—especially with high housing costs in places like Toronto or Mississauga. What matters is how you live, not your postal code.

So, no, separation isn’t some formal legal status with paperwork (unless you draft a separation agreement—which is a whole other thing). It’s more like a shift in how your relationship functions. And it’s the first step, but not the last.

So… Is There Such a Thing as Automatic Divorce in Canada?

Let’s not drag this one out: Nope. Doesn’t exist.

There’s no such thing as an “automatic divorce” in Canada, no matter how long you’ve been separated. You could be apart for one year or twenty—it makes no difference. Somebody still has to actually file a divorce application in court.

Still, a lot of folks believe in this myth. And honestly, it’s not hard to see why. If your lives have been separate for years, emotionally and financially, it might feel like the divorce already happened. But until someone makes it legal, you’re still married in the eyes of the law.

That means property rights, inheritance issues, even tax considerations may still link you to your ex—yes, even if you haven’t spoken since the early 2000s.

The 1-Year Rule: Why Separation Still Matters

Now, here’s where the confusion sometimes comes from.

Canada’s Divorce Act allows you to file for divorce using “separation for at least one year” as your grounds. It’s the most common route—no drama, no fault, no finger-pointing.

But again, it’s not automatic. It just means the court will accept your year-long separation as a valid reason to grant a divorce.

And guess what? You don’t need both people to agree. If you believe the marriage is over and you’ve been living apart (in all the ways that matter), you can file on your own. The other spouse doesn’t have to sign off for the one-year clock to start ticking.

But be careful—brief reconciliations (like getting back together for a weekend or trying one last romantic getaway) could reset that clock. The court looks at intentions and behaviour, not just calendars.

What Happens If You Stay Separated but Never Divorce?

This is where things can get… sticky.

You may think that by staying separated, you’re avoiding the drama. And sometimes, that’s true. But long-term separation without actually filing for divorce creates all sorts of legal headaches.

Here’s what can still apply if you’re separated but not divorced:

Property rights: Your ex could still make claims on your pension or estate.
Inheritance: If you die without a will, your legal spouse could be entitled to part of your estate—yes, even if you haven’t seen them in 15 years.
Debts and obligations: Shared debts don’t vanish with emotional distance.
Spousal support: In some cases, financial support might still be an issue.
Remarrying? Not without a divorce certificate. You can’t legally marry someone else if you’re still married to your ex, even if it’s been decades.

In other words, the legal tie remains strong—no matter how emotionally detached you feel.

Real Talk: The Separation That Just Kept Going

Let’s ground this with some relatable (and very real) situations:

Janet and Mark split up in 2009. She moved to Ottawa; he stayed in Brampton. They co-parented for a few years, then stopped talking entirely. Flash forward to 2024—Janet wants to remarry, but guess what? She still needs a divorce, even after 15 years apart.
Luis and Rob never officially divorced. They stayed legally married while dating other people, each assuming the other would handle the paperwork “eventually.” When Rob passed away suddenly, Luis had to deal with the estate mess—inheritance, executor issues, and claims from Rob’s new partner.

You see where this is going. That ghost of a marriage? It can come back to haunt you.

Thinking of Ending It “For Real”? Here’s How Divorce Works in Ontario

So, let’s say you’ve been separated for a while, and you’re ready to make it official. What’s the process?

Here’s a simple breakdown:

Confirm your eligibility – You or your spouse must have lived in Ontario for at least one year before applying.
Use the one-year separation rule – No need to prove fault. Just confirm the date of separation.
File an Application for Divorce – This goes to the Superior Court of Justice.
Serve your spouse – They get a copy of the documents. If they don’t contest, the process is smoother.
Wait for the court to review – If uncontested, the court can issue the divorce order in a few months.
Receive your Divorce Certificate – This is your legal proof the marriage is officially over.

You can file solo (called a “simple divorce”) or jointly if you and your spouse are on good terms. There’s also legal aid for those who qualify.

Cost-wise? Expect around $669 in court fees for a simple divorce (as of 2025)—but a lawyer’s help might add to that. Still, better now than years of legal tangles later.

Can You Still Divorce If You Can’t Find Your Ex?

Here’s something that throws a wrench in the works: What if you literally can’t find them?

It happens more than you’d think. Maybe they moved provinces. Maybe they changed numbers or went off the grid. Maybe you really just lost track after all these years.

Good news: You can still move forward.

Substituted Service: The court may let you serve documents through alternative means—email, publication, social media, etc.
Affidavit for Divorce: You’ll need to prove your separation and show you’ve tried to contact them.
Court approval: Once the judge is satisfied you’ve done your due diligence, they can let the process go ahead without your ex’s involvement.

It takes a bit more legwork, but it’s absolutely doable.

So Why Do People Delay Divorce for So Long?

Not every delayed divorce is about forgetfulness. Sometimes, there’s a deeply human reason behind the wait.

Emotional hesitation: For some, filing for divorce feels like admitting failure—or closing a chapter that was once filled with love and memories.
Financial stress: Even a “simple” divorce costs money, and that can be daunting.
Hope for reconciliation: Especially when kids are involved, some people hold onto the hope things might change.
Avoidance: Let’s be honest—life gets busy, and this kind of paperwork tends to fall to the bottom of the to-do list.

But here’s the thing: time doesn’t solve the legal part. Only action does.

Wrapping Up: Separation Isn’t the Final Word

Look, long separations are common. Understandable, even. Life’s messy. But the truth is, no matter how long you’ve been apart, separation doesn’t end a marriage.

If you want the legal tie severed, you have to take that final step and file. It’s not just about being free to marry again—it’s about peace of mind, financial clarity, and legal closure.

So if you’re sitting in a Tim Hortons, sipping your double-double, thinking, “Wait—am I still legally married?”… maybe it’s time to find out.

And if the answer’s yes? Don’t panic. You’re far from alone—and you’ve got options.

Want to make the process a little easier? Talk to our family law lawyer so you don’t have to go it alone. You can book a free consultation online. Learn more about our flat rate pricing.

Cheap Divorce Lawyers

gtadivorce · May 27, 2025 ·

Cheap Divorce Lawyers: What You Should Know Before You Spend a Dime

Let’s get something straight right out of the gate: divorce isn’t cheap. But it also doesn’t have to drain your bank account or leave you wondering if your lawyer charges by the sigh. If you’re in the Greater Toronto Area and you’re hunting for a divorce lawyer who won’t charge you a small fortune just to file papers, you’re in the right place.

You’ve probably heard horror stories. Legal fees that spiral, hourly rates that sound like surgeon salaries, and endless emails that cost more than rent. But here’s the twist—divorce doesn’t have to be that way.

Wait… Cheap AND Legit?

Yes. It’s possible.

At GTA Divorce, we offer flat rate pricing on uncontested divorces—meaning no surprises, no hourly billing, and no chasing your lawyer down just to get a quote. You know exactly what you’re paying, and exactly what you’re getting. Whether it’s an uncontested divorce, a simple separation agreement, or more involved support negotiations, we break it down clearly from the start.

The Lowest Price Guarantee: Here’s the Deal

We know there are other lawyers out there. And some might offer tempting one-liners like “low-cost divorce” only to tack on fees like a budget airline. That’s not how we work.

GTA Divorce has a lowest price guarantee. If you find a lawyer in the GTA offering the same divorce service for less—we’ll beat it. Simple as that. No asterisks, no footnotes. We believe legal support should be affordable, accessible, and not wrapped in fine print.

But Can You Really Trust a Cheap Divorce Lawyer?

We get it. Cheap sometimes sounds sketchy. But what we offer is low-cost, not low-quality.

Our team is fully licensed in Ontario, focused exclusively on family law, and deeply familiar with how divorce unfolds in the GTA. We’ve worked with many clients across Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Scarborough, and beyond.

Flat fee means we focus on getting things done, not billing more hours. It also means you get honest timelines, clear deliverables, and actual peace of mind.

What You Get (And What You Don’t Pay For)

When you work with GTA Divorce, here’s what’s included in your flat rate:

Full preparation and filing of divorce documents
Guidance through Ontario’s family law process
Simple custody or support advice (for uncontested cases)
Transparent timelines and expectations

What you won’t pay for?

$500 consultations
Extra fees for basic updates
Surprises on your invoice

Divorce in the GTA: Still Messy, But Manageable

Yes, even with low-cost legal help, divorce is still messy. There are emotional layers, property divisions, maybe even kids caught in the middle. But knowing that your legal side is handled affordably? That gives you room to breathe.

And let’s be honest—living in the GTA means money is tight enough as it is. Why throw thousands at a lawyer when you can spend that on rent, your kids, or your fresh start?

Don’t DIY Your Divorce (Unless You’re a Lawyer)

There are online kits, yes. And sure, technically you can do it alone. But one mistake on a form can delay your case for months, or worse—end up costing more to fix.

That’s why affordable legal help matters. It’s not just about saving money; it’s about getting it right the first time.

What Makes GTA Divorce Different?

Flat fees start at just $799 for simple uncontested divorces plus court fees
Lowest price guarantee across the GTA
Real people who care, call back, and don’t charge you to breathe

Whether you’re separating amicably or just need out with minimal drama, GTA Divorce is here to make it fast, fair, and affordable.

So… What Now?

Start by booking a free consultation. Ask questions. Get a real quote. You deserve answers that don’t come with a retainer.

And if you’re comparing prices? Bring them to us. We’ll beat them. Because divorce is hard enough—your lawyer bill shouldn’t be.

GTA Divorce: The smart, affordable way to move on.

Helpful Resources:

Ontario Family Law | Government of Ontario

Ministry of the Attorney General – Family Justice Services

Ontario Court Forms

Superior Court of Justice – Family Law

Department of Justice Canada – Family Law

Divorce Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. 3) | Justice Canada

Legal Aid Ontario

CanLII – Ontario Court Cases and Legislation

Family Responsibility Office (FRO): Everything You Need to Know

gtadivorce · May 25, 2025 ·

Let’s be honest—nobody really expects to deal with something like the Family Responsibility Office when they first separate. Most people picture courtrooms, custody battles, and maybe a lot of late-night Googling. But then… boom. You’re handed a court order, your lawyer mentions “FRO,” and suddenly you’re knee-deep in government forms you’ve never heard of.

If you’re in the Greater Toronto Area and going through a divorce or separation, understanding the Family Responsibility Office (or FRO, for short) isn’t just helpful—it’s essential. Whether you’re paying support or receiving it, this office can either be your biggest headache… or your secret weapon for peace of mind.

Let us walk you through everything you actually need to know—minus the legal jargon and government double-speak.

So, What Exactly Is the Family Responsibility Office (FRO)?

Here’s the deal: the Family Responsibility Office is a government agency in Ontario that collects, distributes, and enforces child and spousal support payments. It operates under the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, and its entire purpose is to make sure court-ordered support is actually paid—and paid on time.

Think of it as a financial traffic cop. Or maybe a support-payment babysitter. Either way, it acts as a neutral third party between the person who pays support and the one who receives it.

And no, it’s not optional in most cases. We’ll get to that.

Wait—Do I Have to Use the FRO?

Short answer? Usually, yes.

If you’ve got a court order for child or spousal support, or a separation agreement that’s been filed with the court, then FRO automatically steps in. Once it’s filed, the FRO gets a copy and takes over the logistics of collecting and distributing the support payments.

But here’s something most people don’t realize: you can opt out, if both parties agree. This is called a “withdrawal” or “opt-out agreement,” and you’ll have to fill out forms to do it.

That said, opting out can be risky. Why?

If you’re the recipient, you might find yourself chasing payments.
If you’re the payor, things could get messy if there’s a dispute or delay.

So while skipping FRO might seem simpler at first, in reality, letting them handle it can save a ton of stress and paperwork in the long run.

How FRO Gets Involved in Your Divorce or Separation

Okay, so let’s say you’ve gone through the legal process—court order, separation agreement, the works. What now?

FRO gets notified as soon as your support order is issued and filed with the court. Once that happens, both you and your ex will receive a welcome letter (okay, it’s more like a formal notice) with a bunch of instructions, registration forms, and payment details.

If you’re the recipient, you’ll need to register so they can send you payments—usually by direct deposit.

If you’re the payor, you’ll get details on how and when to pay (often through wage garnishment or direct withdrawal).

Need help sorting that out? It’s a lot—we get it. You can always book a free consultation with a family lawyer who can help walk you through the steps.

The Nitty-Gritty: What FRO Actually Does

So what does FRO actually do, day to day?

Here’s the rundown:

Collects payments: From the payor—either directly or through garnishment.
Distributes payments: To the recipient—usually by direct deposit.
Keeps track: Of how much has been paid, when it was paid, and what’s still owing.
Enforces orders: If someone falls behind, FRO steps in with enforcement tools (we’ll get to those in a second).

Missed Payments? Here’s Where It Gets Real

Let’s not sugarcoat it: missing support payments through FRO can lead to some serious consequences.

If you fall behind, FRO has the legal power to enforce the order using methods like:

Wage garnishment
Bank account seizure
Interception of tax refunds
Driver’s license suspension
Passport denial
Reporting to credit bureaus

Yup, it’s intense. And once enforcement begins, it’s hard to undo—especially if you’ve been ignoring their notices.

That’s why, if you’re falling behind, it’s better to be proactive. You can set up a voluntary payment plan to start chipping away at arrears without triggering full enforcement. If that’s your situation, a quick consultation with a divorce lawyer might save you a world of trouble.

Changing the Support Terms: Can You Just Tell FRO?

This is a super common myth: people think that if both parties agree to change the amount of support, they can just notify FRO and that’s that.

Unfortunately… not true.

FRO only enforces what the court order says. If you want to change the amount, you’ll need to go back to court and get the order changed formally. Once you have that updated court order, then FRO will update their files.

Yes, it takes time. Yes, it’s annoying. But skipping the proper steps just creates more confusion—and FRO won’t budge without the right documents.

Need to change your support order? Take a look at our transparent pricing page to see what it might cost, or contact us to ask some quick questions.

What If I’m the Payor and I’m Struggling?

Life happens. Job loss, illness, unexpected expenses—sometimes you just can’t pay what the court originally ordered.

The worst thing you can do? Ignore it.

Instead:

Call FRO and ask about a Voluntary Arrears Payment Schedule
Talk to a family lawyer about filing a motion to change the support order
Start making partial payments—even $100 shows good faith

What If I’m the Recipient and I’m Not Getting Paid?

If payments stop, here’s what you can do:

Contact FRO directly through their call centre or online tools
Submit proof of missed payments if needed
Follow up regularly—yes, it can take time, but enforcement does work

Just know that FRO can’t make someone pay if they genuinely have no income or assets. But in most cases, they can and do recover money eventually.

FRO and Parenting: They’re Not the Same Thing

Let’s clear up a huge misunderstanding: FRO only deals with financial support.

They have nothing to do with:

Parenting time or access
Visitation schedules
Custody arrangements

So if the payor says, “I haven’t seen my kid in months, I’m not paying”—that doesn’t fly. Child support isn’t a reward for good parenting. It’s a legal obligation.

Same goes the other way around: just because someone isn’t paying support doesn’t mean you can legally withhold access. They’re two totally separate issues in the eyes of the court.

Common Mistakes People Make with FRO (And How to Avoid Them)

Not registering properly — If you don’t fill out the forms or update your banking info, payments can’t go through.
Forgetting to update your contact info — Moved? New job? New phone number? Tell FRO.
Ignoring notices — Open their letters. Read them. Respond.

Also, if you’ve got a new partner or you’re thinking about changing your separation agreement, always speak with a lawyer first. You don’t want to accidentally mess up your support order without realizing it.

How to Contact FRO (Without Losing Your Mind)

Let’s be real: FRO isn’t exactly known for lightning-fast service.

But here are some ways to improve your odds:

Use their online portal whenever possible (it’s glitchy, but improving)
Keep your case number handy—you’ll need it for everything
Fax still works for urgent requests (yes, in 2025… fax.)
Be persistent but polite—they’re overworked, but they do respond

You can also reach out to us directly if you’re stuck. Sometimes a lawyer can push things along where an individual can’t.

Closing Thoughts: It’s Not Just About Paperwork — It’s About Peace of Mind

Divorce is already hard. Emotions run high. Life feels chaotic. The Family Responsibility Office isn’t perfect—but it does help make sure that financial commitments are followed through. And when you’ve got kids or dependents involved, that stability matters.

Whether you’re paying or receiving support, getting it right with FRO can help everyone move forward.

Need help figuring it out? Schedule a free consultation. No pressure, no commitment—just clear advice on what to expect and what you can do next.