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Who gets to keep the dog or cat after a breakup? In Ontario, the law treats pets as property—not family members—meaning ownership, not custody, determines who keeps them. This article explores how courts decide pet disputes, the key factors that influence ownership, and what you can do to strengthen your claim. If you’re facing a pet custody battle, understanding your rights is the first step to keeping your furry friend.

The law recognizes that even the most fastidious of court orders may not address the disputed issues forever. This is why there are mechanisms in place which allow parties to alter their Final Order after it has been given. This is typically due to a material change in circumstances that makes the original order impractical.

To modify a final court order in family law, where the parties are in disagreement about the changes to be made, a party must bring a Form 15 Motion to Change. This is a process used to request that a judge revisit and potentially alter the existing Court Order or separation agreement. This request, as per the Divorce Act, requires proof of a material change in circumstances since the last court order. [1]

The leading case on this concept is Gordon v. Goertz, [1996] 2 S.C.R. 27. Here, the Supreme Court of Canada outlined a clear framework for identifying what exactly is a “material change in circumstances” that warrants court intervention.

An Offer to Settle is a powerful legal tool in Ontario family law that allows parties to resolve disputes before or during litigation. Governed by Family Law Rule 18, an offer can cover issues like child custody, support, and property division, potentially saving time, money, and legal costs.

If a party rejects a reasonable offer and later receives a court ruling that matches or is worse than the offer, they may be ordered to pay the other party’s legal costs. Understanding how offers work—when to make one, how to accept or withdraw, and the financial consequences of refusal—can help individuals navigate family law disputes more effectively.

Learn how to draft, accept, or respond to an Offer to Settle, and why consulting a family lawyer is essential to protecting your interests. 📞 Contact Progressive Legal Solutions today for expert guidance!

Understanding case conferences is crucial in Ontario family law. Let PLS guide you through this vital process and help protect your legal interests.

Did not Drink but Failed a Test? What to do if a False Positive Breathalyzer showed a positive result when you did not have alcohol? What You Need to Know about False Positive Breathalyzer Test Results? Common household products and typical everyday food products can lead to false positive breathalyzer test results, which can have …

Family Law Rule 6 outlines the proper methods for serving legal documents, a critical step in family law cases. Whether it’s special service for originating documents or regular service for other matters, ensuring compliance is essential. From serving individuals and lawyers of record to handling corporations, each method requires precision. In cases where traditional service isn’t possible, substituted service may be ordered by the court. Protect your legal interests—consult with experienced divorce and family lawyers to navigate document service efficiently and in accordance with the law.

Divorce is often a challenging process, both emotionally and financially. In Ontario, the costs can quickly add up, making it a daunting prospect for many.

But what if there was a more affordable way to navigate this difficult time?

This article aims to guide you through the cheapest ways to get a divorce in Ontario. We’ll explore various options, from uncontested divorces to online services, and provide practical tips to minimize costs.

This article is a summary discussion on the topic of Offers To Settle in family law. If you believe you need to serve an offer to settle, it is highly recommended that you retain the services of a family lawyer with the appropriate experience.   As per the Section 18 of the Family Law Rules, …

A divorce certificate is a vital legal document that serves as proof that your marriage has officially ended. If you are planning to remarry, change your name, or update legal records, this document is indispensable. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what a divorce certificate entails and how to obtain one in Ontario. Understanding the Divorce …

The institution of marriage is a cornerstone of society. Yet, it’s not always a lifelong commitment, as reflected in the divorce rate in Canada. In Canada, the divorce rate has been on the rise. This trend has sparked interest and concern among various groups. This article aims to shed light on the divorce rate in …