Divorce Lawyer

How Much Does a Simple Divorce Cost in Ontario

gtadivorce · June 3, 2024 ·

A Complete Breakdown

A simple divorce in Ontario can vary in cost, depending on several factors. Typically, the baseline cost for filing for an uncontested divorce is around $669 CAD, which only includes court fees and processing fees.

We need to consider other expenses that might arise, such as mediation or legal consultations. While many people might handle a simple divorce on their own, legal advice can help navigate complexities, adding to the overall expenditure.

Understanding the costs upfront allows us to prepare better and avoid unexpected financial strain. Let’s dive into the specifics to give a clearer picture of potential expenses.

Cost of Divorce in Ontario

In Ontario, the cost of a simple divorce largely depends on various factors, including legal fees, court fees, and other associated costs. Here’s a closer look at these expenses:

Average Expenses

The average cost for a simple divorce in Ontario usually ranges between $1,500 and $3,500. This includes filing fees, which are approximately $445 and processing fees of $224. If parties choose to hire a lawyer, legal fees can vary widely but often fall between $1,200 and $3,000.

Additional costs might include service fees for documents and notary fees. If mediation is involved, expect to pay around $150 to $500 per hour. While a DIY divorce kit is less expensive at around $500, it does require significantly more effort from both parties.

Factors Affecting Costs

Several factors influence the cost of a divorce:

Complexity of the Case: More complex cases with disputes over assets, custody, or support will be more expensive.
Legal Representation: Hiring a lawyer increases costs but often reduces stress and errors.
Mediation vs. Court: Mediation is generally cheaper than court settlements, saving on prolonged legal battles.
Agreement Between Parties: If both parties agree on terms, costs are usually lower because it requires less legal intervention.
Filing Fees: Court filing fees are standard but can add up with additional motions or applications.

These are crucial considerations to keep in mind when estimating the costs associated with a simple divorce in Ontario.

Our Affordable Services

We offer a cost-effective approach to handling simple divorces in Ontario. Our services emphasize affordability, transparency, and accessibility to ensure our clients receive the best possible support during this challenging time. Aside from $669 court fees, we charge $799 + HST for an uncontested divorce. Check out our prices here.

Free Consultations

We provide free initial consultations to help clients understand their options and the potential costs involved. During the consultation, we discuss the specifics of your case, explain the divorce process, and outline the necessary steps.

This ensures you have a clear picture of what to expect. Free consultations also allow us to assess the complexity of your situation. By doing so, we can offer a tailored approach that suits your needs and budget without any upfront financial commitment.

Disclaimer: Content on this website should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, you must speak with a lawyer.

Uncontested VS. Contested Divorce in Ontario

gtadivorce · March 21, 2023 ·

A Quick Heads-Up Before We Begin…

Divorce is messy. Even when it’s “simple,” it’s still emotionally tangled, financially draining, and full of moments where you just want to scream into a pillow. If you’re in Ontario and thinking about ending your marriage—or maybe you’re already knee-deep in the process—you’ve probably heard the terms uncontested and contested tossed around like legal buzzwords. And sure, they sound straightforward enough, but when it comes down to your life, your finances, and your kids? The difference between them matters. Big time.

So, let’s talk about it—not just from a technical perspective, but in a real, human way. The kind of way that actually helps.

What Do “Contested” and “Uncontested” Mean, Anyway?

Let’s start with the basic breakdown, no fluff.

Uncontested Divorce: You and your spouse agree on everything—property division, child custody, support, the works. There’s no fight over the terms, so the process tends to be faster, cheaper, and a lot less stressful.
Contested Divorce: You and your spouse disagree on something—even one issue can turn things contested. Maybe it’s who gets the house. Or how much time the kids spend with each parent. Or maybe it’s everything. When there’s conflict, the court gets involved, and the process slows way down.

But here’s the catch: sometimes what starts as contested can become uncontested… and vice versa. Divorce isn’t static. It evolves—sometimes for the better, sometimes for the chaotic.

So, Why Does This Matter?

Because time, money, and peace of mind are all on the line.

Let’s be honest: nobody wants to drag their personal life into a courtroom if they can avoid it. But depending on your situation, you might not have a choice. And understanding which path you’re on—or might be headed toward—helps you make better decisions from the get-go.

Let’s Get a Little Personal: When Uncontested Divorce Actually Works

If both parties are mature, communicative, and ready to move on without playing games, an uncontested divorce can feel like a breath of fresh air.

It’s usually:

Faster: Some are finalized in just a few months.
Cheaper: No trial means no extensive legal fees.
Private: No courtroom drama = less public exposure.
Simpler: Fewer documents, less back-and-forth.

People often ask, “But do we still need a lawyer if we agree on everything?”

Here’s the thing: yes, you should still get legal advice—even in the most amicable cases. Why? Because clarity prevents conflict down the line. An uncontested divorce doesn’t mean uninformed.

At GTA Divorce, for example, we offer flat-rate uncontested divorce packages that take the guesswork—and surprise bills—out of the equation. And if you’re not quite sure where you stand, a free consultation can help you figure it out without pressure.

When Things Get Messy: Contested Divorce Real Talk

Not all breakups are friendly. Sometimes, things are complicated, raw, and downright hostile. And in those cases? A contested divorce might be unavoidable.

Here’s what to expect:

Court Involvement: A judge will have to decide on the issues you and your spouse can’t agree on.
More Legal Fees: You’re paying for time, prep, appearances, and possibly experts or mediation.
More Time: Contested divorces can take a year… or more.
Emotional Drain: It’s not just money—it’s mental energy, especially when kids are involved.

You know what hurts most? When a contested divorce spirals from something small. Like one person digging in their heels about spousal support, or hiding financial assets. That’s why early legal guidance matters. It can save you from a months-long emotional (and financial) sinkhole.

Let’s Pause for a Second—What About the Kids?

This deserves its own section, because if you’ve got children, your divorce isn’t just about the two of you anymore.

In both contested and uncontested divorces, child custody and support are big topics. But here’s the nuance:

In an uncontested divorce, both parents usually come to a mutual agreement through a parenting plan. Courts are still involved (they review everything to ensure it’s fair and in the child’s best interest), but the heavy lifting happens privately.
In a contested divorce, custody battles can get ugly fast. Judges make decisions based on the best interests of the child, but when parents can’t agree, those interests get interpreted through affidavits, testimonies, and sometimes even child psychologists.

And that? That’s tough on everyone.

Want to avoid dragging your kid through a courtroom showdown? Talk to us. Even in high-conflict situations, there’s room for negotiation. There’s room to do better.

Cost Comparison: Let’s Talk Dollars

You know what nobody wants to ask but everyone needs to know? How much is this going to cost me?

Here’s a ballpark based on Ontario averages:

Type	Legal Fees	Court Fees	Timeframe
Uncontested Divorce	$1,000–$2,500	~$632	3–6 months
Contested Divorce	$7,500–$25,000+	Varies	12+ months

Keep in mind, these are averages. Some contested divorces can run up to $50,000+ if they go all the way to trial. It’s not just about the money either—it’s the emotional toll of dragging things out.

That’s why our pricing page lays it all out clearly, so you’re never blindsided.

Can You Switch Mid-Way? Yes—And It Happens More Than You Think

Here’s something people don’t realize: just because a divorce starts contested doesn’t mean it has to end that way.

Sometimes, after a few heated exchanges and escalating legal fees, reality sets in. People calm down. Priorities shift. And suddenly, there’s room for compromise.

Same goes the other way—what starts off as a clean break can take a sharp left turn if one side backpedals on an agreement or hides income.

So don’t think of your divorce as a fixed status. Think of it as a process. One that can bend, flex, or even flip completely depending on what’s happening in your life.

The Paperwork (Because Yes, There’s Always Paperwork)

Here’s the not-so-fun truth: divorce is as much about forms as it is about feelings.

For uncontested divorces, you’ll need to file a joint application or a simple application with proof of separation, agreements, and affidavits.
Contested divorces involve a flurry of documents: applications, answers, financial disclosures, motions, and possibly court orders.

Even one mistake in a form can delay your process. That’s why many Ontarians choose flat-fee legal services to make sure everything’s airtight the first time.

One Last Thing: What Feels “Easier” Might Not Always Be “Better”

Let me be real for a second: uncontested sounds lovely on paper, but it’s not for everyone. If you’re giving up too much just to keep the peace, that’s not peace—that’s self-sacrifice. And that’s not sustainable.

On the flip side, contesting everything just to win a battle? That gets expensive fast. Not just financially—but emotionally, spiritually, even physically.

So what’s the right path?

Honestly? The one that gives you closure without collateral damage. The one that protects your peace without sacrificing fairness.

And if you’re not sure what that looks like yet? That’s okay. You don’t need all the answers today. You just need a safe place to ask questions.

Final Thoughts—And a Gentle Reminder

Divorce isn’t one-size-fits-all. Whether you’re walking into it with a handshake or a subpoena, you deserve to understand your options. And more importantly—you deserve to be treated like a human being, not just a file number.

So whether your divorce is contested, uncontested, or somewhere in the unpredictable grey area in between, know this:

You’re not alone. And this doesn’t have to be a disaster.

You’ve got choices. Let’s figure out the right one together.

Helpful Links for Ontario Residents:

Disclaimer: Content on this website should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, you must speak with a lawyer.

Uncontested Divorce in Ontario

gtadivorce · March 21, 2023 ·

Uncontested Divorce in Ontario: Everything You Need to Know (Without the Headache)

Uncontested? Sounds Nice… But What Does It Really Mean?

Let’s be honest: the word divorce usually brings up a pretty bleak mental image. Courtrooms. Lawyers glaring across the table. Someone crying in the hallway. And legal bills so high they make your head spin.

But what if we told you that’s not always how it goes?

Enter the uncontested divorce. It’s not glamorous, and it still takes effort, but it’s a whole lot smoother than the alternative. If you and your ex are mostly on the same page — or at least not actively at war — this might be the smartest, cleanest route out of a marriage that’s run its course.

At GTA Divorce, we help folks all over Ontario go through uncontested divorces without the drama (and without emptying their wallets). So, let’s walk through what it actually looks like, how long it takes, and whether it’s the right option for you.

What Makes a Divorce ‘Uncontested’ in Ontario?

An uncontested divorce means both spouses agree on the big stuff. You don’t have to like each other. You don’t have to be friends. But legally speaking, you’re not in a tug-of-war over:

Division of property
Spousal support
Child custody and parenting time
Child support

If nobody is challenging the application — or both of you are signing off on the same terms — then it’s uncontested.

Some folks think “uncontested” means “painless.” Not quite. It’s more like saying, “We’re not fighting — we’re just ending something together.”

Still, that makes a world of difference compared to contested divorces, which can drag on for months (or years), involve courtroom appearances, and pile on legal costs.

Wait, Is This the Same as a Joint Divorce?

Great question — and no, not exactly. In Ontario, there are two ways to file for an uncontested divorce:

Joint Divorce Application:
You and your ex file together. You’re both in sync on everything from the get-go.
Sole Application, Uncontested:
One person files. The other doesn’t respond (meaning they’re not fighting it), and there’s no legal disagreement.

Either way, there’s no argument being played out in court — that’s the key.

Do You Need a Lawyer for an Uncontested Divorce?

Technically? No. You can file on your own.

But — and this is a big but — the paperwork must be precise. Even small errors can get your application rejected. And if you’ve got kids, property, or support payments involved? You really want to make sure everything’s legally airtight.

Honestly, this is where most DIY divorces go sideways. A bunch of confusing forms, legal language that makes your eyes glaze over, and timelines that are easy to miss.

That’s why a flat-fee lawyer can be a game-changer. At GTA Divorce, we offer predictable pricing and experienced legal help so you don’t get stuck halfway through the process.

How Long Does an Uncontested Divorce Take in Ontario?

Okay — timelines. Everyone wants to know how long this will take. Let’s break it down:

Separation Period:
You must be separated for at least one full year. You can live in the same house, but you have to be living “separate lives.”
Filing and Serving:
Once you file, you need to serve your spouse (if it’s not a joint filing). Then there’s a 30-day waiting period for a response — or no response, if they’re not contesting.
Court Processing:
The court reviews everything — and this is the slow part. It can take 4–8 weeks, depending on your region.
Final Divorce Order:
Once granted, you wait another 31 days for it to become final.

Total time? If everything goes smoothly, around 3–6 months after filing.

So, What’s the Actual Process?

Here’s how it generally works:

Step One: Confirm You’re Eligible
You’ve lived in Ontario for at least a year? Separated for one full year? Cool — you’re good to go.
Step Two: File the Application
Joint or sole — either way, you fill out the forms and file them with the Ontario Superior Court.
Step Three: Serve Your Spouse (if needed)
If it’s not a joint application, you must deliver the documents legally — and prove you did it.
Step Four: Submit Additional Docs
Think financial disclosures, affidavits, parenting agreements (if applicable).
Step Five: Wait for the Judge
The court reviews everything and grants the divorce if all checks out.
Step Six: Receive Final Certificate
Boom — your divorce is final 31 days after the order.

Feeling overwhelmed already? You’re not alone — book a free consultation and we’ll help map it all out for you.

Virtual Divorce? Yup, That’s a Thing Now

You don’t need to leave your home to get divorced. For real.

We offer fully virtual services — Zoom consultations, digital filing, e-signatures. So whether you’re in Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Ottawa, or some tiny town with one Tim Hortons and no courthouse… we’ve got you covered.

It’s why GTA Divorce is trusted across the entire Greater Toronto Area. We’re basically always “nearby,” because we’re wherever you are.

How Much Does an Uncontested Divorce Cost in Ontario?

Here’s the straight talk:

Court filing fee: $669 in total
DIY kits or paralegals: Cheaper, but riskier
Lawyer-assisted flat rate: Around $799–$1,200, all-in

At GTA Divorce, we offer flat-rate pricing with no hidden fees — and we guarantee the lowest price in Ontario. That means you get legal support without bleeding money.

When an Uncontested Divorce Becomes Contested…

It happens. You start out in agreement, then one person changes their mind halfway through. Maybe about money. Maybe about the kids.

If that happens, the court shifts gears — and now you’re in contested territory. It means longer timelines, possible hearings, and yes, more legal costs.

But we’re here for that too. If your uncontested divorce gets messy, we’ll help you handle the curveball.

Keep It Simple. But Not Risky.

Here’s the thing: uncontested divorces can be relatively straightforward. But they’re still legal proceedings. And doing them wrong can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.

Whether you’re 100% on the same page with your ex or just trying to avoid a courtroom battle, getting help from professionals who know the Ontario system inside and out is worth it.

Let’s keep it simple — but not sloppy.

👉 Book your free consultation now
👉 Check out our transparent pricing
👉 Reach out anytime

Handy Resources

Here are some official links to help you out:

Family court website
Government website
Child support agreements
Parenting arrangements
Spousal support
Dividing property
MySupportCalculator.ca

Separation Agreement Ontario

gtadivorce · March 21, 2023 ·

Separation Agreement Ontario: What It Is, Why You Need One, and How to Get It Right

Still Married, But Definitely Not Together?

So… you’ve split. You’re not living like a married couple anymore. Maybe you’re in different homes. Or maybe you’re still under the same roof, passing each other in the kitchen like strangers.

But here’s the thing — in Ontario, separation isn’t just emotional. It’s legal. And to truly protect yourself (and your kids, your property, and your peace of mind), you need a separation agreement.

A lot of people ask us at GTA Divorce: “Do we have to get divorced right away?”
The short answer? No.
You can live separated for years — even forever — without officially divorcing. But what you can’t afford to do is ignore the legal side of things.

That’s where a separation agreement comes in. It’s more than just paperwork. It’s your foundation for moving forward with clarity and control.

What Is a Separation Agreement, Really?

Let’s clear something up: a separation agreement isn’t a divorce.
It’s not a court order. And it’s not just some informal text exchange that says, “Hey, you take the car, I’ll keep the dog.”

It’s a written legal contract between two people who were married (or common law) and are now separating. It covers everything that matters:

Who lives where
How the kids are parented
Who pays what bills
What happens to property, pensions, debts, support

It’s the playbook for life after the relationship — and it can be customized to your exact situation.

Is It Legally Binding in Ontario?

Absolutely — if it’s done properly.

That means both parties fully disclose their finances. Nobody is pressured. The agreement is in writing, signed, dated, and ideally witnessed.

And most importantly? Both people should get independent legal advice. That’s what makes the agreement bulletproof in court.

If done right, the courts will treat it like law — and it can be enforced just like a judgment.

What Goes Inside a Separation Agreement?

Think of it like this: your separation agreement is the contract for how your family operates post-breakup.

Here’s what usually goes in:

Child Custody and Parenting Time
Who has the kids when? Who makes decisions about school, health, etc.?
Child Support
Based on income, custody arrangement, and federal guidelines.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Will someone pay support? How much, and for how long?
Division of Property and Debt
Who keeps the house? How are joint accounts, RRSPs, pensions, credit cards split?
Who Pays for What Going Forward
Mortgage? Insurance? Kids’ activities? Dental?

There’s no exact formula. Your agreement can be tailored to your life — that’s what makes it powerful.

Do You Need a Lawyer to Write a Separation Agreement?

Technically? No.
You can write it yourself. Google some templates. Grab a pen. Done.

But here’s the truth: that rarely works out well.

Why?

Because most DIY separation agreements miss key details — or include unenforceable clauses. Worse, they don’t account for legal rights under Ontario’s Family Law Act or the Divorce Act (if married). And if it ever ends up in court, a badly written agreement can get tossed out fast.

That’s why we offer flat-rate, lawyer-prepared separation agreements at GTA Divorce. You get peace of mind without draining your bank account.

DIY Templates vs. Flat-Fee Lawyers

It’s tempting, we know. That downloadable PDF promises you can “do it yourself in 10 minutes.”

But when real money, custody, and housing are involved? That shortcut can cost you everything.

At best, a DIY agreement might need rewriting. At worst, it could leave you without legal protection — and wide open to future legal fights.

With our flat-fee services at GTA Divorce, you get the best of both worlds:

Professional drafting
Legal review
Clear, enforceable terms
All for one fixed price

We also offer a free consultation so you can talk to a real person — not a robot.

Can You Get a Separation Agreement Without Going to Court?

Yes — and in fact, most people do.

You can:

Negotiate privately
Use mediation (neutral third party helps settle terms)
Work through lawyers (collaborative law)
Mix and match (e.g., lawyer + mediation)

Going to court is usually the last resort. The goal is to stay out of court by putting everything clearly in writing — fairly and legally.

Want to skip the legal maze and just get clear answers? Book a free consultation today.

What If One Spouse Refuses to Sign?

This happens. You’re ready to move on, they’re dragging their feet — or flat-out refusing.

Here’s what to know:

You can’t force someone to sign a separation agreement
But you can apply to court for orders instead (custody, support, etc.)

It’s more expensive and time-consuming, but it’s a legal path forward. Often, the threat of court is enough to bring someone back to the table.

We help clients navigate this kind of pushback all the time. If your ex is stalling, reach out. We’ve seen every version of this story.

How Much Does a Separation Agreement Cost in Ontario?

Prices vary depending on complexity and who drafts it.

Here’s the rough breakdown:

DIY template: $30–$200 (not recommended)
Paralegal services: $300–$800 (limited scope)
Lawyer-drafted, flat fee: $900–$1,500
Traditional lawyer hourly billing: $250/hr to $500/hr (can total $3,000+)

We keep it simple: GTA Divorce offers flat rates with no hidden costs — so you get a proper agreement without unpredictable bills.

You’re Not Alone, and You Don’t Have to Wing It

Separation is hard enough emotionally. Don’t let the legal side add more stress.

A solid, legally binding separation agreement protects your future — especially if kids, finances, or long-term plans are involved.

And guess what? You don’t need to do this alone.

👉 Book a free consultation now
👉 See our transparent flat-rate pricing
👉 Talk to a lawyer today

Helpful Ontario Resources for Separation and Family Law

Child Custody Agreements

gtadivorce · March 21, 2023 ·

Child Custody Agreements in Ontario: What Parents Really Need to Know

It’s Not Just About You Anymore

If you’re reading this, chances are life didn’t go the way you expected. Relationships end, tensions rise, and suddenly—there’s a child caught in the middle. That’s when things shift. It’s no longer just about two adults figuring things out. It’s about building a stable, safe, and supportive life for your kid—despite the storm you’re both weathering.

Child custody agreements in Ontario are about more than legal jargon or court orders. They’re about structure, predictability, and protecting childhood in the face of change.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure—take a breath. Let’s walk through this together, one real-world explanation at a time.

What Is a Child Custody Agreement, Really?

Let’s skip the stiff legal definitions for a second.

A custody agreement is basically a parenting blueprint. It outlines who makes decisions for your child, when each parent spends time with them, and how you’ll work together (or separately) to raise them.

Sometimes, these agreements are hammered out between two parents on decent terms. Other times, they’re settled with lawyers—or in court—because communication has broken down. Either way, the goal is the same: put the child’s best interests first.

In Ontario, custody doesn’t mean “who gets the child.” It’s about who has decision-making responsibility. That’s a big shift from the older language, and it’s a meaningful one. Because custody isn’t ownership—it’s responsibility.

Types of Custody in Ontario: More Than Just Legal Terms

Let’s break this down in a way that actually makes sense.

☑️ Sole Custody (Now: Sole Decision-Making Responsibility)

One parent has the right to make major decisions about the child’s life—things like schooling, religion, and healthcare. The other parent might still have parenting time, but they don’t get a legal say in those big choices.

☑️ Joint Custody (Joint Decision-Making Responsibility)

Both parents must agree on major decisions. This works best when communication is solid. If you’re always butting heads over bedtime or vaccinations, this might not be ideal.

☑️ Shared Custody

This term is mostly about time. If each parent has the child at least 40% of the time, it’s typically considered “shared” under the Federal Child Support Guidelines. This can affect how support payments are calculated.

☑️ Split Custody

Rare, but it happens: one child lives primarily with Parent A, another with Parent B. This setup can get emotionally tricky—and financially complicated.

So what does the court care about when making these decisions? Always, always the same thing: the best interests of the child. That’s the golden rule in Ontario family law.

Parenting Time: The Other Side of the Coin

We used to call this “access”—but that sounded a bit too much like a visitation log for inmates. Now we use parenting time, which is more accurate (and human).

Parenting time refers to when each parent physically spends time with the child. It doesn’t necessarily connect to who makes decisions. You could have parenting time every weekend, but no legal authority over schooling or healthcare decisions.

So, how does it look in real life?

Some common setups include:

Week-on/week-off schedules
One parent has weekdays, the other has weekends
Alternating holidays and birthdays
Summer breaks split 50/50

The schedule depends on work commitments, distance between homes, the child’s needs, and frankly, your ability to co-parent without pulling your hair out.

How Custody Agreements Are Reached

This part can feel like pulling teeth—or it can be surprisingly civil. It depends a lot on the relationship between the parents.

🔸 Option 1: You Work It Out Together

Maybe you’re still on speaking terms. Great. You can sit down, hash it out, and get it in writing. Just remember: it still needs to be formalized to hold up in court.

🔸 Option 2: Mediation

A family mediator helps both parties reach an agreement without the courtroom drama. It’s cheaper and faster than going to trial—and can keep the peace, which matters if you’ll be seeing each other at school concerts and birthday parties for years to come.

🔸 Option 3: Collaborative Law

Each parent has their own lawyer, but everyone agrees to avoid court. Think of it like a group project… with legal consequences.

🔸 Option 4: Go to Court

If nothing else works, you can ask a judge to decide. Courts are neutral, but they’re also slow, expensive, and emotionally draining. Only go this route if you absolutely have to.

Need legal advice or help drafting a custody agreement? Book a free consultation with GTA Divorce and get honest, affordable guidance.

What Goes Into a Solid Custody Agreement?

Let’s be real—it’s not just about who picks the kid up from school.

Here are the core pieces of a functional custody agreement in Ontario:

Decision-making responsibilities (Who decides on health, religion, school?)
Parenting time schedule (Weekends, holidays, summer—write it all out)
Communication plan (How will you share updates? Text? Email?)
Transportation arrangements (Who does the driving, and when?)
Travel rules (Can one parent take the child abroad? What documents are needed?)
Dispute resolution (What happens if you disagree on something later?)

And don’t forget the finer details, like how you’ll handle snow days, sick days, or switching weekends. Trust us—clarity now saves chaos later.

When One Parent Doesn’t Follow the Agreement

Here’s where things get messy.

If one parent ignores the agreement—keeps the child past agreed hours, makes unilateral decisions, or stops communication—it’s not just frustrating. It’s a violation.

You have options:

Document everything. Keep texts, emails, notes.
Seek mediation (again) to resolve recurring issues.
Return to court to enforce or change the agreement.

If child support is part of the issue, the Family Responsibility Office (FRO) can step in to enforce payments. They can garnish wages, suspend licenses, and more.

Can Custody Agreements Be Changed?

Absolutely. Life changes. People move. Kids grow.

Maybe you got a new job in another city. Maybe your child’s needs have shifted. Maybe the other parent’s circumstances have changed. When that happens, your agreement needs to keep up.

There are two ways to go about it:

Mutual Agreement: If both parents agree, you can update the agreement and get it filed.
Court Motion: If you can’t agree, you’ll need to go back to court and explain why the change is necessary.

Just remember—the court won’t approve a change unless it benefits the child, not just the parent.

Custody Doesn’t Mean Ownership

This part’s important, and it’s often overlooked.

Even if the law says you have custody, that doesn’t mean you’re “in charge” of your child. You’re not managing a project. You’re shaping a childhood.

Fighting for custody should never be about winning. It should be about protecting peace, preserving relationships, and ensuring safety.

When you approach custody from a place of care—not control—you’ll make better decisions. Not just legally, but emotionally.

You’re Building the Framework for Their Childhood

Look, none of this is easy. You’re navigating co-parenting, court systems, your own heartbreak—and doing your best not to let it spill over onto your kids.

But here’s the truth: if you can create a custody agreement that gives your child consistency, love, and security? You’ve already done something incredible.

And you don’t have to do it alone.

At GTA Divorce, we help parents across Ontario build custody agreements that actually work. No legal fluff. No outrageous fees. Just smart, simple guidance from people who get it.

👉 Book your free consultation
👉 View our flat-rate pricing
👉 Contact us directly