Can a paralegal practise family law in Ontario?

Paralegals can practise within the LSO P1 scope. As of the 2024 family-law scope expansion, paralegals can handle uncontested simple divorces and certain motions where authorized. Contested motions and custody/access matters generally require a lawyer.

What is the continuing record?

The continuing record is the master file maintained by the court office for a family proceeding. Every application, motion, affidavit, and order is filed in date order under Family Law Rule 9.

Court / forum

Ontario Family Court Forms

Family law matters in Ontario follow the Family Law Rules and run in three branches: the Family Court (Superior Court branch in unified jurisdictions), the Ontario Court of Justice (in non-unified jurisdictions), and the Family Court of the Superior Court. The service forms are the same across all three.

Service of family documents (Rule 6)

Form 6 — Acknowledgment of Service (signed by the recipient). Form 6B — Affidavit of Service (sworn by the person who served). Form 6C — Lawyer or Paralegal's Certificate of Service (signed by the licensee, no commissioner). Use the form that matches who actually served and how.

What gets served

The Application (Form 8 or 8A), the Answer (Form 10), the Notice of Motion (Form 14), the Affidavit (Form 14A), Financial Statement (Form 13 / 13.1), and orders. The proof of service goes in the continuing record.

Frequently asked questions

Can a paralegal practise family law in Ontario?: Paralegals can practise within the LSO P1 scope. As of the 2024 family-law scope expansion, paralegals can handle uncontested simple divorces and certain motions where authorized. Contested motions and custody/access matters generally require a lawyer.
What is the continuing record?: The continuing record is the master file maintained by the court office for a family proceeding. Every application, motion, affidavit, and order is filed in date order under Family Law Rule 9.

Browse Family Court forms