My spouse changed the locks on our home and won't let me back in. What can I do in Ontario?

Changing the locks to exclude a spouse from the matrimonial home is not permitted under Ontario law without a court order. Both spouses have equal rights to possession of the matrimonial home during the marriage and separation period. Your spouse cannot unilaterally lock you out.

You have legal options. You can apply to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice for relief, including an order restoring your access to the home. In urgent situations, courts can hear motions on short notice or even without advance notice to the other party (an ex parte motion) if there is a real emergency. A judge can order your spouse to allow you back into the home.

If your spouse is using the lock change to control or intimidate you, this may also be relevant to a claim for exclusive possession — where you seek an order that your spouse must leave and you remain. Document everything: take photos of the changed locks, note the date and time you were denied entry, and keep any text messages or communications about the situation. Contact a family law lawyer as soon as possible given the urgency.