How long does it take to get an exclusive possession order in Ontario?

The timeline for obtaining an exclusive possession order depends on the urgency of the situation and the court's schedule. In genuine emergencies — particularly cases involving domestic violence or immediate risk of harm — courts can hear an urgent motion within days or even hours. An ex parte (without notice) order may be obtainable the same day in the most serious cases.

For non-emergency situations, a typical motion in the Ontario family court system may be scheduled weeks or months out depending on the jurisdiction and how busy the court is. Courts in major urban centres like Toronto often have longer wait times than smaller centres. Duty counsel and case management services may help in some jurisdictions.

To move faster, your lawyer can seek an expedited hearing by demonstrating urgency. If the parties can reach a temporary agreement about possession while the motion is scheduled, that can help both sides manage the uncertainty during the wait. It is also possible to bring a motion on short notice if you can show the situation requires immediate attention even if it is not a life-safety emergency. Starting the process promptly — before things escalate further — is generally advisable.