Do I need a lawyer to get a divorce in Ontario?

You are not legally required to hire a lawyer to get a divorce in Ontario. Self-represented litigants (people who represent themselves) do file and complete divorces on their own, and the courts have resources to assist. For a truly simple uncontested divorce — no children, no property disputes, no support issues — some people manage the process themselves using court forms and guides available from the Ontario government.

However, even an apparently simple divorce can have lasting financial consequences. Signing away rights to a pension, waiving spousal support, or overlooking property that should be equalized can have effects that last decades. Court forms must be completed accurately; errors can lead to delays, additional fees, or having your application returned.

Legal advice at the outset — even a few hours of consultation — can help you understand your rights, spot issues you might not have considered, and decide whether you can safely proceed on your own. If there are children, disagreements about property or support, or any power imbalance in the relationship, professional legal help is strongly recommended. Many family law lawyers offer unbundled or limited-scope services, so you don't have to retain full representation to get guidance.