Obtaining an enforceable court order can be achieved through various legal avenues. Whether you’re seeking custody, access, support, or the division of family property, initiating an application in court is a key step. Once the court renders a decision, a formal court order is issued.

In some cases, spouses may reach an agreement outside the courtroom by negotiating with their lawyers or working with a mediator. These informal discussions can lead to the creation of domestic contracts, such as separation agreements, paternity agreements, or cohabitation agreements. For these agreements to be legally enforceable, they must be filed with the court.

Do Family Lawyers Go To Court?

Yes, family lawyers frequently represent clients in court. However, their role encompasses much more than litigation. They engage in negotiation, mediation, and explore alternatives to court to achieve the best outcomes for their clients. While equipped for legal battles, the primary objective of family lawyers is to protect their clients’ interests and rights, not to ‘destroy the other side.’

What Happens If You Do Not Follow A Family Court Order In Ontario?

In Ontario, failing to comply with a family court order can result in significant consequences. One potential outcome is an order for costs, compelling the non-compliant party to pay part of the other party’s legal expenses. For example, if the compliant party needs to file an additional motion to enforce the order, the violator may be required to cover the associated costs. This mechanism serves as a deterrent to ensure strict adherence to court orders.

At Agha Law, we regularly assist clients in obtaining the support payments they are entitled to receive from their former spouse. If your former spouse is not meeting their support obligations, please contact us for more information.