Which courts will hear my family law matter?

In Ontario, there are three courts that hear family law cases; the Family Court of the Superior Court of Justice or the Superior Court of Justice (Family Court), the Superior Court of Justice, and the Ontario Court of Justice.

The Family Court of the Superior Court of Justice (otherwise referred to as the Superior Court of Justice (Family Court)) hears family law matters of all sorts. It deals with every possible aspect of Family Law. The Family Court of the Superior Court of Justice is prevalent throughout the Province of Ontario. It is unique as it consists of specialized judges.

In regions where a Family Court of the Superior Court of Justice cannot be found, the Superior Court of Justice is next in line to hear the family law matter. Unlike the previous court, the Superior Court of Justice will not hear matters concerning child protection or adoption proceedings. It will hear cases with respect to property, divorce, custody, access, and support.

Also unlike the Family Court of the Superior Court of Justice, the Ontario Court of Justice will not deal with every aspect of family law. It will hear cases on custody, access, support, child protection, and adoption. The Ontario Court of Justice will not hear cases regarding divorce or property issues.

However, what is common among all three courts is that the Family Law Rules will apply to all family law proceedings.

To learn more about family law courts as well as the services provided by Krol & Krol, call 905.707.3370 today.