Educational how-to
How to file for a divorce in Ontario
This page is a public educational walkthrough. It is not a retainer, a court form, or a promise about your result.
Confirm Ontario can hear the case
Usually at least one spouse has lived in Ontario for a year before filing.
Know the ground
Most applications use a one-year separation under the Divorce Act.
Decide what else must be decided
Parenting, support and property are separate claims often filed in the same application.
File at the Superior Court of Justice
Divorce is not Small Claims and not the Ontario Court of Justice.
Serve the other spouse if you apply alone
The Family Law Rules set how service must be done.
Wait, then requisition the order
A divorce is not automatic on filing.
Official law on this site: family-law.
Disclaimer: Know The Law publishes legal information for the public, not legal advice. Court forms, fees and filing channels change. Read the official statute text linked from each page before you act. We do not represent you and we do not file documents for you.