Resources
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Divorce Act
The Divorce Act is a federal law that governs the legal processes surrounding divorce. The Act outlines the grounds for divorce, which include separation for at least one year, adultery, or cruelty. It also addresses issues related to Parenting child support, spousal support, and ensuring that the best interests of children are prioritized.
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Family Law Act
The Ontario Family Law Act is legislation that governs family-related legal matters in the province of Ontario. It provides a framework for resolving issues such as spousal support, parenting issues, and property division upon separation.
It outlines the rights and obligations of parents, guardians, and partners, as well as the processes for addressing financial support and asset distribution. The Ontario Family Law Act serves as a critical resource for individuals navigating the complexities of family law, offering essential guidelines for conflict resolution and legal recourse.
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Children's Law Reform Act
The Children's Law Reform Act serves as a crucial framework for addressing legal matters related to children in Ontario. Enacted to promote the best interests of children, the Act focuses on issues such as decision-making, parenting time and the child’s right to express their views, ensuring that decisions are made with the child's welfare at the forefront. It outlines the principles for determining parenting arrangements and provides guidance on the legal responsibilities of parents and guardians. By prioritizing the needs of children, the Act aims to foster supportive and stable environments for their growth and development amidst family changes.
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Child Support Guidelines
The Federal Child Support Guidelines in Canada provide a standardized framework for determining child support payments. These guidelines are designed to ensure that the financial needs of children are met following divorce or separation. They take into account various factors, including the income of the paying parent, the number of children, and the time each parent spends with the children. By establishing clear rules and calculations, the guidelines aim to reduce conflicts between parents and promote fairness in supporting the well-being of children. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure that child support arrangements are consistent and in the best interest of the child.
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Family Law Rules
The Ontario Family Law Rules govern the legal procedures for family law matters in the province. These rules are designed to facilitate the efficient and fair resolution of issues such as parenting time, decision-making, support payments, and property division during the breakdown of relationships. They outline the steps parties must follow in order to file claims, respond to motions, and engage in court proceedings, while also encouraging alternative dispute resolution methods. The primary aim is to promote access to justice for families involved in legal disputes, ensuring that all individuals can navigate the complexities of the family law.
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Partition Act
The Partitions Act is a piece of legislation in Canada that provides a legal framework for the division of jointly owned property among co-owners. This Act facilitates the fair distribution of property rights when co-owners are unable to agree on the use, management, or sale of the property. Typically invoked in cases where individuals share ownership of real estate, the Act allows any co-owner to seek a partition or division of the property, which can include a physical split or a sale of the property, with proceeds distributed among the owners.
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Pension Benefit Act
The Pension Benefits Act (PBA) is a key piece of legislation in Canada that regulates pension plans in order to protect the retirement income of employees and ensure the proper administration of pension funds. The Act outlines the rights and responsibilities of plan sponsors, administrators, and members, governing a wide range of provisions related to funding, benefit entitlement, and disclosure of information. It ensures that pension plans are managed prudently, provides safeguards for plan members in case of plan termination, and establishes the framework for pension disputes. Adherence to the PBA is crucial for both employers and employees to secure the long-term financial stability and integrity of pension benefits.
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Succession Law Reform Act
The Succession Law Reform Act is a pivotal piece of legislation that governs the distribution of a deceased person's estate in Ontario. It outlines the rules and procedures for wills, the rights of heirs, and the process for resolving disputes related to estate administration. Notably, it provides guidelines for dependants seeking support, ensuring that those who were financially reliant on the deceased are considered. This Act plays a critical role in promoting fairness and clarity in the face of loss, outlining how assets are divided and offering a legal framework to address challenges that may arise during the succession process. It is essential for anyone involved in estate planning or administration to understand its provisions and implications.
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Mandatory Information Program
The parties in most family law court cases must attend a Mandatory Information Program, or MIP.
During these sessions, family law professionals will give you information about the court process, the options available to help you resolve your dispute, and the effects of separation on children and adults.
When you file your application with the court, you will be given information about scheduling and attending a MIP which can be done virtually and, in some locations, in person. Both parties must attend the MIP, but you should not attend the same session. You will get a certificate to prove you attended the session, which you must file with the court. If you haven’t participated in a MIP session, the court may prevent you from taking steps in your case.
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The Office of the Children's Lawyer
The Office of the Children’s Lawyer (OCL) provides services to help resolve parenting disputes by taking into account the views and preferences of the children involved:
legal representation for the child(ren);
an investigation about the parenting issues which can be broad or more focused in scope, or
a Voice of the Child Report. The OCL needs a judge to request their involvement before they will consider providing services in a family law case.
A judge can make this request with or without the agreement of the parties. Once the judge makes the request, you will need to complete the OCL intake forms
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First Appearance Court
If your case is at the Family Court branch, in all cases except those that deal with divorce, division of property or an arbitration award, a first court date will be scheduled by the Court when the application is issued. This date is called a first appearance.
If your case is at the Family Court branch, in all cases except those that deal with divorce, division of property or an arbitration award, a first court date will be scheduled by the Court when the application is issued. This date is called a first appearance. if the case has not been settled and your documents are complete, the court clerk will normally set a date for a case conference.
See Rule 39 of the Family Law Rules for information about the First Appearance Court.
For all other cases, the first court date will normally be at a conference before a judge or a Dispute Resolution Officer (DRO).
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File family court documents online
You can submit a request to file family court documents to the Ontario Court of Justice, Superior Court of Justice, including the Family Court Branch of the Superior Court of Justice and the Divisional Court of the Superior Court of Justice (but not the Ontario Court of Appeal).
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The Office of The Children's Lawyer - Forms
The Office of the Children's Lawyer provides forms and resources intended to assist with matters concerning the rights and interests of children in legal situations. This collection of forms is designed for use in family law proceedings, ensuring that legal representatives, parents, and guardians can effectively navigate the complexities of child involvement in legal matters.
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Court Locations
This site provides information on the various court locations across Ontario, enabling individuals to find the appropriate court for their specific needs, whether it's for family law, civil matters, or other legal proceedings. Each court's information includes addresses, contact details, and services offered, ensuring easy access to crucial legal resources for residents in Brampton, Toronto, Milton, Oakville, Mississauga, and beyond.
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Going to Court Procedure
The "Guide to Procedures in Family Court" is an essential resource for individuals navigating the complexities of family law in Ontario. It offers clear, step-by-step instructions on the various processes involved in family court, including guidance on preparing and submitting documents, understanding court appearances, and the roles of different court personnel. This guide aims to demystify the family court system, making it more accessible for those seeking resolutions related to parenting, support, and property issues. Whether you are dealing with a simple application or a more complex case, this guide serves as a practical tool to help you understand your rights and responsibilities, ensuring a more informed experience in the family court process.
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Daily Court List
Ontario Court Dates is a comprehensive resource designed to provide individuals with accurate and up-to-date information regarding court schedules across Ontario. Whether you are involved in a family law matter, civil case, or any other legal proceeding, this platform allows users to easily search for court dates by jurisdiction.
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Steps in a Family Law Cases
Steps to Justice provides essential information for individuals navigating family law matters in Canada. It covers a range of topics, including parenting issues, child support, and spousal support, offering clear guidance on processes and legal rights. The platform is designed to help users understand complex family law concepts and the steps involved in resolving disputes. By providing accessible resources and practical advice, Steps to Justice aims to empower individuals to make informed decisions and effectively advocate for their interests in family law situations.
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Travel Consent Form & Information
A consent letter for children is a vital document for parents or guardians travelling with minors, particularly when the child is accompanied by only one parent, another family member, or a friend. This letter serves to confirm that the non-travelling parent or legal guardian has given permission for the child to travel, and typically includes essential details such as the child's full name, travel itineraries, and the contact information of the consenting parent or guardian. It is especially important to have this letter when crossing international borders, as it can help prevent delays or complications with immigration authorities. Keeping a copy of the consent letter while travelling can ensure a smoother experience during the journey.
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Standard Clauses
The Standard Clauses section on the Ontario Court Forms website provides essential templates that offer guidance in family law matters. These clauses streamline the drafting of legal documents by presenting clear, pre-formulated language that helps ensure compliance with court requirements. Parents and legal professionals can utilize these forms to address various issues, including custody arrangements, support obligations, and property division, thereby promoting consistency and reducing ambiguity in legal proceedings. By adhering to these standardized clauses, individuals navigating the complexities of family law can facilitate smoother communication and negotiation, ultimately aiding in the resolution of disputes.
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Family Responsibility Office
The Family Responsibility Office (FRO) in Ontario provides essential services related to the enforcement of child and spousal support obligations. Through the online platform, users can access their account to manage support payments, check balances, and update their personal information securely. The FRO aims to facilitate compliance with court orders, ensuring that families receive the financial support they require. The system is designed to streamline processes for users in Brampton, Toronto, Milton, Oakville, Mississauga, and surrounding areas, reflecting the office's commitment to efficient and accessible service delivery within Ontario's family law framework.
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FRO - Confirmation of Assignments
Any person commencing a court proceeding to change the terms of their support order must complete a Confirmation of Assignment form to obtain information about whether their support order is assigned. The ministry will only provide information to the support payor, the support recipient or his/her lawyer. When the form is completed it must be sent to MCCSS, Confirmation of Assignment Unit.
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Notice of Relocation Form
The Divorce Act has rules about giving notice about plans to move. When you have a court order under the Divorce Act for parenting responsibilities for a child (which means that you have an order giving you custody, access, parenting time or decision-making), you will have to give notice if you plan to move.
You need to give notice if you are planning to 1) move your child or 2) move away from your child.
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Objection to Relocation Form
The Divorce Act has rules about moves involving children. When you have a court order under the Divorce Act for parenting responsibilities for a child (which means that you have an order giving you custody, access, parenting time or decision-making), you can object to someone else’s plan to relocate your child.
If you have received a Notice of Relocation about the proposed relocation of your child and you do not agree with the plan, you can use this form to object to the relocation.
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Transfer ownership of a vehicle to a family member
You may be allowed to transfer ownership of your vehicle to a family member without paying the retail sales tax. This can be done at a ServiceOntario centre.
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Caselines
Caselines, a digital platform developed for Canadian lawyers, facilitates the management of civil litigation cases by providing a centralized resource for filing and accessing documents in Ontario courts. It allows legal professionals to efficiently organise evidence, share information with clients and counterparts, and track case progress in real-time. The frequently asked questions section on the Law Society of Ontario's website addresses common inquiries regarding the functionality of Caselines, offering guidance on how to best utilize the platform for various processes, such as document submission and court appearances. This resource is particularly valuable for practitioners navigating the complexities of civil litigation, ensuring they remain informed about essential procedures and technical requirements.
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Child Support
Child support in Canadian family law refers to the financial support that one parent provides to the other for the upbringing of their children following a separation or divorce. The obligation to pay child support arises from the responsibility of each parent to contribute to their child’s needs, ensuring their well-being and stability. The amount of support is typically calculated based on established guidelines that consider the income of the paying parent, the number of children, and other relevant factors such as parenting arrangements or special expenses. It’s crucial for parents to understand their rights and responsibilities regarding child support, as failure to comply can lead to legal repercussions, including enforcement actions by the Family Responsibility Office. Proper legal guidance can assist parents in navigating these complexities, ensuring that the interests of the child remain the priority in any custody or support discussions.
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Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines
The Government of Canada's website on spousal support provides valuable information regarding the legal obligations and considerations surrounding financial support between spouses after separation or divorce. It outlines the factors that can influence spousal support arrangements, such as the length of the relationship, the financial situation of both parties, and the roles they undertook during the partnership. Additionally, the site offers guidance on how to apply for spousal support, the types of support available, and the processes involved in making a claim. This resource is essential for individuals navigating the complexities of family law, ensuring they understand their rights and responsibilities under Canadian law.
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Child Support Look-Up
The resource provided by the Government of Canada focuses on the significant issue of child support within family law. It outlines the legal obligations of parents to financially support their children, which is a critical aspect in ensuring the well-being of children following a separation or divorce. The information emphasizes the importance of understanding the guidelines used to determine child support amounts, the roles played by provincial and territorial laws, and the various factors that may influence these decisions, such as income levels and the needs of the child. By providing comprehensive insights into the child support process, the resource aims to help parents navigate their responsibilities and the legal framework surrounding child support arrangements in Canada.
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My Support Calculator
MySupportCalculator.ca is a valuable online tool designed to assist individuals in calculating child support and spousal support obligations in Canada. By entering relevant financial information such as income, parenting arrangements, and additional expenses, users can obtain an estimate that complies with the Federal and Provincial guidelines. This resource is particularly useful for those navigating family law matters, providing clarity and supporting informed decision-making regarding financial responsibilities. With its user-friendly interface, MySupportCalculator.ca is accessible to Canadians from various backgrounds, ensuring that everyone can understand their potential financial obligations with ease.
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AFCC Parenting Plan
The Parenting Plan Guide and Template provided by the Association of Family Courts of Ontario serves as a comprehensive resource for parents navigating the complexities of co-parenting after separation or divorce. It offers practical tools and structured guidelines to help parents develop a clear and thoughtful parenting plan that addresses critical aspects such as shared responsibilities, communication strategies, and decision-making about the children's welfare. By utilizing this guide, parents can foster a collaborative approach that prioritizes the best interests of the child while reducing potential conflicts, ultimately contributing to a more positive co-parenting experience.
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Department of Justice Parenting Plan Tool
The Government of Canada's website provides important resources regarding forms related to parenting issues in family law. Specifically, the page outlines the necessary documents for individuals seeking to establish or modify parenting arrangements and child support. This resource aids parents in navigating the complexities of the legal system by offering clear guidelines and downloadable forms required for various proceedings. Access to such information is vital for ensuring that rights and responsibilities are understood, allowing for a more streamlined approach to resolving parenting disputes in accordance with Canadian family law.
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Birth/Marriage Certificate
The Ontario Government's eForms portal provides a streamlined platform for individuals and businesses to complete and submit various government forms online. This initiative aims to enhance accessibility and efficiency in interacting with government services. Users can find a range of forms related to different sectors, facilitating processes such as licensing, registration, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
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CPP Credit Splitting
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) credit splitting provisions allow for the division of pension credits earned by couples during their relationship, which can be particularly beneficial in cases of separation or divorce. When a couple separates, each partner can apply to have their CPP credits split equally, ensuring that both individuals receive a fair portion of the contributions made throughout their relationship. This process aims to provide financial equity, especially for individuals who may have reduced their own working hours or career prospects to support the family unit. It is important for those seeking to split CPP credits to understand the eligibility criteria and application process to ensure that they receive their rightful share of benefits.
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Canada Revenue Agency
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) offers various e-services through its secure login system, allowing individuals and businesses to manage their tax affairs efficiently online. Users can access essential services such as submitting tax returns, checking balances, viewing tax deductions, and updating personal information.
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FSRAO Pension Division
The Financial Services Regulatory Authority of Ontario (FSRA) provides valuable insights through its "Pensions and Marriage Breakdown" guide, which is essential for individuals navigating the complexities of pension division during a marriage breakdown. This resource outlines how pension entitlement is assessed in the context of family law, detailing the rights of both members and their spouses regarding pension benefits. It highlights the significance of understanding the value of pensions as part of property division, ensuring that both parties can make informed decisions.
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Bank of Canada - Exchange Rates
The Bank of Canada's exchange rate page provides essential information on the value of the Canadian dollar against various foreign currencies. It features daily updates on exchange rates that are vital for businesses, investors, and individuals engaging in international trade or travel. The data reflects the mid-market rates, which are crucial for understanding fluctuations in currency value and making informed financial decisions. In addition to the current rates, users can access historical exchange rate data, which helps in analysing trends over time.
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Canadian Black Book
Canadian Black Book provides an essential online tool for vehicle valuation, which helps Canadians determine the market worth of their vehicles. By inputting specific details such as make, model, year, and condition, users can access reliable pricing information that reflects current market trends. This service is particularly valuable for individuals looking to sell or trade in their vehicles, as it offers a transparent way to assess fair value. With a user-friendly interface, Canadian Black Book simplifies the valuation process, ensuring that Canadians make informed decisions regarding their automotive assets.
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Amortization Scheduler/Mortgage Calculator
The Amortization Calculator available at calculator.net is a useful online tool designed to assist individuals in understanding their loan repayment structure over time. By inputting key details such as loan amount, interest rate, and term length, users can generate a detailed amortization schedule outlining monthly payments, total interest paid, and the remaining balance throughout the loan period. This resource is particularly valuable for borrowers looking to make informed decisions about mortgages or any other long-term loans, as it offers a clear visual representation of how payments are allocated between principal and interest, helping users to better plan their financial commitments.
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Tax Rate Calculator
EY offers a range of tax calculators designed to assist individuals and businesses in assessing their tax obligations and potential savings. These calculators cover various aspects of taxation, including income tax, GST/HST, and other relevant calculations tailored to Canadian tax regulations. Users can input their financial information to gain insights into their tax positions, enabling informed decision-making. By utilising these tools, clients can better understand their tax liabilities and explore opportunities for effective tax planning and compliance.
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Corporate Searches
OnCorp is a provider of corporate and personal property services in Canada, offering a range of solutions tailored to different business needs. Their primary offerings include online access to key corporate information, such as business registrations and property records, which facilitate due diligence and compliance processes.
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Ontario Land Registry Access
OnLand is your online information source from the Ontario Land Registration and Writs system.
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Ontario Real Estate Commission Calculator
Real estate commissions are the fees you pay to your real estate agent for their services. It is usually calculated as a percentage of the selling price of the property. In Ontario, the standard real estate agent commission is 5% of the property price plus HST, but in practice, the commission can range anywhere from 3.5% to 5%. The total commission will be divided between the buyer and seller agents, where the buyer's portion is typically fixed at 2.5%.
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Half-Way Point
Figuring out what would be the halfway between two locations is easy. Just enter the two addresses in our app above and we will find the midpoint that is halfway between for you. Add a point of interest if you want to meet at a specific type of location.
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Brayden Supervision Services
Brayden Supervision Services provides safe, successful, child focused parenting time where there are concerns for the physical safety or emotional well-being of the child.
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Family Violence Toolkit for Family Law Legal Advisors
The Government of Canada's Department of Justice provides a comprehensive resource for individuals seeking assistance in family law matters through its dedicated webpage. This platform offers guidance on various issues such as parenting arrangements, child support, and spousal support, ensuring that individuals are well-informed about their rights and responsibilities. It also outlines the resources available to navigate family disputes effectively, facilitating access to legal services and support programs.
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Restraining Orders
A restraining order in Ontario is a legal measure designed to protect individuals from harassment, violence, or threats by another party. This order, typically issued by a court, imposes specific conditions on the respondent, such as prohibiting them from contacting or approaching the protected person. To obtain a restraining order, an applicant must demonstrate a clear and compelling need for protection, supported by evidence of the harmful behaviour. The process involves filing an application with the court, potentially attending a hearing, and presenting relevant documentation or witness testimony. It is important for individuals seeking a restraining order to understand their rights and the implications of such an order, including any legal and social ramifications for both parties involved.
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Our Family Wizard Program
Our Family Wizard is a co-parenting application designed to facilitate communication and organisation between separated or divorced parents. The platform provides tools for scheduling, sharing expenses, and managing important documents related to children's welfare. By creating a clear and structured environment for co-parents, it aims to reduce conflicts and enhance collaborative parenting. The application also features a messaging system that documents all communication, which can be beneficial in legal situations. It is widely used across Canada, helping families navigate the complexities of co-parenting more
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Changing Ways - Men's Program
Changing Ways offers specialized programs designed for men seeking to transform their behaviour and attitudes towards relationships and conflict resolution. These programs focus on fostering accountability, enhancing communication skills, and promoting healthier interactions with partners, family, and the community. Participants are guided through a structured curriculum that encourages self-reflection and personal growth, ultimately aiming to reduce the risk of abusive behaviour and improve overall relational dynamics. By engaging in these supportive group settings, men can learn valuable tools to create positive change in their lives
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Assaulted Women's Helpline
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Lukes Place
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Men and Families
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Ontario Court Support Workers
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Schlifer Clinic
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Family Court and Beyond
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Talking to Children about Divorce & Separation
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Ontario Government - Talking to Children about Divorce & Separation
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Ontario Families Changes
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Sesame Street Communities - Information for Kids
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Limited Scope Family Law Program
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Law Society of Ontario - Find a Lawyer
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Finding a lawyer via Justice Net
Depending on your income, you can also find lawyers who offer sliding scale rates through JusticeNet, at www.justicenet.ca.
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Legal Aid of Ontario
If your income is low, you may access services from Legal Aid Ontario (LAO). LAO offers a legal advice service over the telephone and in person in some court locations. You can make a request by calling LAO toll free at 1-800-668-8258.
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Find Legal Help
Many people find a lawyer based on recommendations from friends or family members. You can also find a lawyer through the Law Society of Ontario at www.findlegalhelp.ca. This Service will give you the name of a lawyer who practices family law in your community who will provide a free consultation of up to 30 minutes. You can also call the referral service’s crisis line between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday to Friday. They can be reached toll free at 1-855-947-5255 or 416-9475255 from the Greater Toronto area.
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Attorney General - Mediation
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FDRIO
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Ontario Association for Family Mediation
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Family Mediation Services
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ADR Ontario