Gelman Family Law Lawyers

Over 200+ 5-Star Google Reviews

Book Consult

What is an Uncontested Divorce?

Published: January 19, 2023

Book Consult1-844-736-0200

Table of Contents

What is an Uncontested Divorce?

Written by: Jessica Lipton 

DISCLAIMER – This article contains legal information, not legal advice. If you are looking for advice about your particular matter, please contact our office at (844) 736-0200 to book a free consultation appointment. 

An uncontested divorce is a court proceeding where the parties are mutually seeking a divorce, and have agreed on all related issues, such as division of property, spousal support, child support, decision-making responsibility and parenting time. The uncontested divorce represents a simplified divorce procedure, in that court appearances are generally not required.

THE TWO TYPES OF APPLICATIONS THAT CAN BE USED TO OBTAIN AN UNCONTESTED DIVORCE 

There are two types of applications for obtaining an uncontested divorce in Ontario. In a “joint” divorce both parties apply for a divorce, because they both agree to a divorce and any other court orders together. In an uncontested “sole” divorce, one party applies for a divorce only, and the other party does not contest the divorce or raise any issues. 

In order to complete an application for divorce you must complete a Form 8A: Application, Form 25A: Divorce Order, Form 36: Affidavit for Divorce and Form 6B: Affidavit of Service. In addition to filing the Application, you must also file the original marriage certificate. 

GROUNDS FOR DIVORCE & WHEN YOU CAN FILE 

In Ontario, you cannot file an application of divorce until you and your spouse have been separated for at least one (1) year. It takes a minimum of 31 days after an Order has been made for the divorce to take effect. However, if you are basing your divorce on the grounds of adultery or cruelty and the court is satisfied that the grounds exist, then your divorce could be granted immediately.

IS A LAWYER REQUIRED TO FILE FOR DIVORCE?

Often it is asked, do you need to hire a lawyer to get a divorce? The answer is no, but the divorce process is not simple. Retaining a family law lawyer to assist you will ensure that your rights are protected, all the necessary steps are taken, and that your divorce proceeds as quickly and smoothly as possible.

Written by Lisa Gelman

Senior Lawyer

Senior Lawyer Lisa Gelman has over 25 years of family law experience and founded Gelman & Associates to provide strategic legal counsel in family law matters concerning divorce, parenting, separation, and more.

Frequently Asked Questions - divorce & separation

If you are litigating your matter, social media posts made by your spouse or partner may be relevant, especially if they contradict what your spouse is claiming in his or her pleadings.

For example, if a spouse is claiming financial hardship, a Facebook post that shows that spouse going on an expensive trip or posing with an expensive car can undermine such claim  and, potentially affect that party’s credibility in court if presented as evidence on a motion or at trial.

Further to photograph-based posts, statements that are made on social media by one party can be relevant if said posts (i) are related to the litigation, to issues of parenting  and/or (b) they contradict statements that were made by the party in his or her pleadings. For example, if a party who is attempting to establish that he or she is an appropriate custodial parent, then recent social media posts about extensive partying and drug use made by that party may be relevant in court, as they may speak to that party’s fitness when it comes to appropriate supervision of a child in his or her care.

The Ontario Attorney General’s website estimates that divorce proceedings can take approximately four to six months to complete, provided that all documents have been appropriately accomplished and submitted on time.

No. The law does not favour mothers over fathers in divorce proceedings. The judge will base his decision on the evidence laid out by both parties.

The main distinction between divorce and separation is that divorce ends your marriage formally. You and your partner are no longer married.
If you’re separated, you’re still legally married to each other even if you receive a formal separation, and you must continue to record that you’re married on documents.

No. You are not required to get a lawyer for a divorce. However, it is best if you retain one to ensure that you fully understand all your rights and obligations.

A joint divorce application occurs when you and your spouse both agree to a divorce and on all other family law matters such as parenting, spousal support, or division of property.

Yes, it is different. Family law problems are addressed mainly by provincial laws in Ontario. Divorce law, on the other hand, is controlled by federal legislation in the form of the Divorce Act, which applies uniformly across the country.

Divorce can be a difficult decision to make, especially if you’re unsure if your partner will sign the petition. However, a divorce does not require your partner’s consent. Although it may be a long process if your partner doesn’t comply, they will not be able to stop you indefinitely.

Locations We Serve

Multiple offices to help serve you better

With numerous offices across Ontario, we make it easier for our clients to have access to our lawyers. Please note that offices marked with an (**) are satellite offices and require a consultation booked in advance. We are not able to accommodate walk-in appointments at these locations. Call us to book a free consultation today.

Still have family law questions?

Speak to a lawyer

If you need legal advice regarding divorce & separation matters in Ontario, contact our Toronto family law lawyers for a free consultation. Some conditions may apply.

Book Your Consult