9-1780 Albion Road, Toronto, ON M9V 1C1, Canada

Trusted Child Custody Lawyers in Toronto, Ontario

Experienced Toronto family lawyers who help with child custody battles, parenting time, decision-making responsibility & more, backed by proven results.

What We Offer:
Child custody, parenting dispute & court representation for families in Toronto and the GTA.
Advice on parenting time, decision-making responsibility, separation, child support & spousal support.
Compassionate legal advice with clear fees and trusted local family law expertise you can count on.

Trusted By

OMNI Television Think Brown Media Punjab Star Peel Law Association CanLII Law Society of Ontario Ontario Bar Association Canadian Bar Association

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Legal Separation

Understanding Child Custody Laws in Ontario (What Parents Must Know):

Ontario child custody is based on the Children’s Law Reform Act and the Divorce Act, if applicable. This means the court primarily deals with decision-making responsibility and parenting time.

The best interests of the child are always a benchmark for any Ontario court. No matter what type of custody arrangement you and your ex are pursuing or what steps you follow, the underlying principle is to ensure that a child’s emotional, physical, and financial well-being is at the forefront.

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Separation

When Should You Look for a Child Custody Lawyer in Toronto, Ontario?

Seeking the advice of a child custody lawyer in Toronto may be necessary when there are disagreements between parents over parenting arrangements, if there is a breakdown in communication, or when court involvement is needed. Hiring legal counsel in cases of high-conflict separation, relocation disputes, emergency custody orders, or when making or responding to serious allegations.

Why You Should Hire a Local Child Custody Lawyer in Toronto:

We know that people across the Greater Toronto Area look for “child custody lawyers near me”. The truth is, when it comes to parenting arrangements, decision-making responsibility, or access to your child, having a local child custody lawyer in Toronto who is familiar with Ontario family courts, local judicial processes, and community-based resources can help. The insight and connections that local legal counsel has in your area can help your case move along more quickly and with fewer surprises, every step of the way.

We offer a discreet, results-oriented service to parents looking for a child custody lawyer in Toronto and the GTA. At our firm, we balance legal accuracy and human sensitivity. We understand that while custody disputes are legally complex, they are also deeply personal. Whether your case needs negotiation, mediation, or court litigation, we will tailor our approach to your priorities and your child’s best interests.

Areas We Cover (local and dependable assistance):

Toronto: Downtown, North York, Scarborough, Etobicoke, York, East York
Peel Region: Mississauga, Brampton, Caledon
York Region: Vaughan, Richmond Hill, Markham, Aurora, Newmarket, King, Whitchurch-Stouffville, East Gwillimbury, Georgina
Durham Region: Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Oshawa, Clarington, Uxbridge, Scugog, Brock
Halton Region: Oakville, Burlington, Milton, Halton Hills

Searching for a North York child custody lawyer or Scarborough custody representation? We are local, responsive, and driven by child-centred results.

Types of Custody Arrangements in Toronto & the GTA:

Sole Custody:

A sole custody agreement means that only one parent has decision-making responsibility over major issues like education, healthcare, and upbringing, while the other parent may have parenting time.

Joint Custody:

Joint decision-making responsibility is a custody arrangement that allows both parents to be involved in making major choices affecting the child, regardless of how parenting time is allocated.

Shared Custody:

Shared parenting time can be granted when the child spends significant time with both parents, as guided by a structured parenting schedule. Shared parenting can be ordered even when the court awards sole decision-making responsibility to one parent.

Split Custody:

Split custody means that siblings are separated and reside primarily with different parents. This arrangement is generally ordered based on the individual best-interest test applied to each child. The siblings are usually of age to express their opinion.

Services We Offer For Child Custody in Toronto and the GTA:

Case Assessment & Legal Strategy:

We provide a custody case assessment based on Ontario family law, identify strengths and risks, and design a legal strategy in line with your child’s best interests and long-term parenting objectives.

Evidence Collection & Documentation:

Our team supports you in gathering and organizing relevant evidence to support your case. This may include parenting records, communication, school involvement, and professional reports.

Court Representation in Toronto Family Court:

We represent clients before the Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice at conferences, motions, and trials.

Parenting Plans & Custody Agreements:

We prepare clear, workable, and enforceable parenting plans and custody agreements that outline decision-making responsibility, parenting time, holidays, and communication guidelines, which will reduce future conflict and misunderstandings.

Negotiation & Mediation Support:

Where applicable, we support negotiated solutions through settlement discussions and mediation.

Enforcement & Modification of Child Custody Orders:

We assist with enforcement and variation applications to protect your rights as a parent and your child’s welfare.

Why Choose GTA Divorce Lawyers for Custody Cases?

The team at GTA Divorce Lawyers focuses on being solution-oriented, compassionate, and results-driven for our clients across the GTA.

Local Expertise

In-depth knowledge of Toronto family courts and Ontario custody laws.

Years of Experience

Extensive experience in handling both complex and contested custody cases.

Proven Results

Successful track record of achieving fair, child-focused outcomes.

Top-Rated Professionals

Trusted family lawyers with a reputation for integrity and professionalism.

How the Child Custody Process Works in Ontario?

The child custody process includes structured steps designed to encourage resolution while upholding the child’s best interests. Child custody cases move through the following phases, though each moves at its own pace depending on the case’s complexity, urgency, and degree of dispute.

Your Guided Path Through the Child Custody Process

  • File an application: A custody application in an Ontario court is a starting point. The party who files this form will set out the reasons why they are claiming parenting rights, the arrangements, and relevant facts in the custody form.
  • Case conferences: Judges hold case conferences that allow the parties and the judge to hear each other’s positions, clarify various issues, and explore whether an early resolution may be possible. The case conference also deals with procedural and disclosure-related issues.
  • Settlement attempt or mediation: Courts in Ontario will usually ask the parties to go for settlement discussions, if possible. A negotiated resolution, in a mediation setting or through an informal exchange, can help parents arrive at a parenting arrangement that works best for their child. It also avoids the time and cost that a trial requires.
  • Motion for temporary orders: If there are pressing issues to be dealt with urgently, you may need to seek temporary orders in custody or parenting time disputes. For example, you can make an interim request for child support at this stage.
  • Trial (if no settlement): If there is no resolution, the case will be placed on the trial list for a court hearing.
  • Final decision & parenting order: The final parenting order, based on the trial evidence and the judge’s decision, will set out the custody arrangements and parenting time.
Divorce Process Consultation
GTA

Your Trusted Family Law Experts

Guiding Families Through Legal Challenges

At GTA Divorce Lawyers, we are built on a strong commitment to helping families navigate legal challenges with clarity and confidence. With two full-time Family Law lawyers, we provide experienced guidance on divorce, separation, parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, and property division.

Our team understands how personal and emotionally difficult these situations can be. That's why we take a compassionate, client-focused approach, offering clear advice, practical solutions, and strong representation both inside and outside the courtroom.

Whether you're beginning the separation process or trying to protect your rights during a dispute, our goal is to support you at every step and help you move forward with peace of mind.

Contact Our Lawyers

Meet Our Team

Tajinder

Tajinder

Family Lawyer

A results-driven Family Lawyer handling property division, support disputes, and high-conflict parenting cases. Tajinder’s sharp advocacy ensures the best outcomes for clients.

Avni Shah

Avni Shah

Wills, Estates & Family Lawyer – GTA

Avni specializes in Wills and Estate Planning along with family law matters such as separation, parenting, and financial settlements. Her approach combines clarity, care, and long-term planning.

Divya

Divya

Family Lawyer

A results-driven Family Lawyer handling property division, support disputes, and high-conflict parenting cases. Divya’s analytical mind and fearless advocacy ensure her clients’ best outcomes.

Siv

Siv

Senior Law Clerk

With 12+ years in family, real estate, and commercial law, Siv expertly manages complex files and supports clients through sensitive family matters with precision and compassion.

Fatma Zeki-Gray

Fatma Zeki-Gray

Licensed Paralegal

With over 20 years of legal experience, Fatma supports Family, Civil, and Estate Law cases with exceptional diligence. Her dedication and fairness make her a valued part of the legal team.

Navjot

Navjot

Law Clerk – Family Law

Navjot supports the family law team in court documentation, client coordination, and case management. She is known for her professionalism, empathy, and dedication to client success.

TESTIMONIALS

What Our Clients Are Saying

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I have had my divorce, prenuptial and Will all done with Tajinder. She is very professional and courteous, not to mention reasonable fees. I would recommend Tajinder and her team to anyone. Thanks for all your help!"

— Daniel Boodram
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Amazing service and highly recommended! The team is not just highly knowledgeable and experienced but also treats their clients with respect! Thank you Avni and Sukhpreet, we are really grateful!"

— Smita Nair
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Very good experience here! Avni and the clerks were responsive and answered all of my questions thoroughly. Tajinder was also very helpful. Highly recommended!"

— Aakash S.
Consultation

Book a consultation with a Toronto Child Custody Lawyer:

If you are in a custody dispute or need legal clarity about your parenting rights, seeking legal advice sooner rather than later can make a difference in the outcome. Our team offers informed and practical guidance customized to the realities of your family and Ontario family law.

We're proud to share the trust we've built:

250+

Business Partners

180+

Cases Done

370+

Happy Clients

90+

Awards Won

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FAQs

There is no automatic presumption or right to custody after separation in Ontario. The Ontario courts make decisions about child custody based on the child’s best interests. The parent that the court deems can better provide stability and meet the child’s needs will get custody.

Parenting time or access is based on what is best for the child, not what a parent wants. The courts will use many considerations in arriving at a decision on parenting time, including the child’s well-being.

Yes. The father can be awarded full custody, meaning decision-making responsibility or primary parenting time in Toronto if the court deems it is in the child’s best interest. Custody laws in Ontario are gender-neutral.

In Ontario, a child may not unilaterally choose to live with one parent. However, depending on the age and maturity of the child, the child’s views can be considered.

A custody case can last between a few months and several years. If both parties work towards an amicable solution and resolve their custody dispute by negotiation or mediation, the case can take between six and twelve months. If there is a dispute or if the case is more complex, it may take longer.

Get a free case review

When your future and your family are on the line, trust the team that offers legal excellence and human understanding. Contact our Toronto divorce lawyers for trusted family law services and legal advice on child custody, property division, spousal support, and separation agreements. Take the first step to resolution. Book a free consultation with our GTA divorce lawyers today.