Can You Get a Divorce Online in Ontario Without Going to Court?
Yes, in many cases you can file a divorce online in Ontario, and a simple uncontested divorce is decided on paper. A simple or joint divorce can be filed online, through the Ontario Courts Public Portal for Toronto filings and through Family Submissions Online elsewhere, and court staff review submissions within 3 business days.
Online filing does not remove the paperwork. You still need the sworn Affidavit for Divorce (Form 36), the marriage certificate or an explanation for its absence, and a Central Registry report on earlier divorces. For an uncontested case, Rule 36 does not require anyone to attend in person. If the other spouse files an answer, a judge must hold at least one conference, and parties attend these conferences. A person who cannot afford fees can request a waiver, but the federal $10 divorce fee cannot be waived.
The divorce still takes effect on the 31st day after the judgment is made, and the certificate of divorce is proof of the date. Whether your situation suits an online filing depends on the facts, so a lawyer can confirm before you start.
Key takeaways
- A simple or joint divorce can be filed online, and court staff review submissions within 3 business days.
- Toronto filings use the Ontario Courts Public Portal, while filings elsewhere use Family Submissions Online.
- An uncontested divorce is decided on paper, but a contested case involves conferences that parties attend.
- A fee waiver may be available, but the federal $10 divorce fee cannot be waived.