Family Lawyers — Toronto & Richmond Hill

Separation and Divorce Require Informed Decisions. We Help You Make Them.

Your financial security, your children, and your future are at stake. Before you commit to any course of action, understand the process, the anticipated timelines, and what it is likely to cost.

High
Rate of Success

Licensed by the Law Society of Ontario  •  No advice provided until retainer is in place

 
IR6A4158 683x1024 1 Separation and Divorce Require Informed Decisions. We Help You Make Them.
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OBA Separation and Divorce Require Informed Decisions. We Help You Make Them.

Decisions Made Early in a Separation Can Have Long-Term Consequences.

“We signed everything in front of a notary. I thought that made it legally binding. It didn’t.”
“My ex won’t leave the house. I’m paying rent AND the mortgage — and I don’t know what my rights are.”
“She’s on Legal Aid. I make too much to qualify. I don’t understand how to plan for the costs involved.”
“I didn’t realize there were filing deadlines that could affect my entitlements. No one told me.”
 

Many clients come to us after they’ve already made decisions without understanding the legal framework — not because they were careless, but because family law in Ontario is complex and not intuitive.

Understanding how the process works, what the likely timelines are, and what steps may be available to you can make a meaningful difference in how your matter unfolds. A consultation is the first step toward that clarity.

We are Divorce Lawyers 24/7

“Sutton Law made a challenging time in my life much more manageable. Their expertise in Ontario divorce law and empathetic approach provided me with the clarity and confidence I needed. I highly recommend their services to anyone facing divorce proceedings.”

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Start your journey with Sutton Law—because your future is worth it.

At Sutton Law, we believe everyone deserves access to trusted legal support. With our proven expertise, personalized strategies, and unwavering commitment to your success, we simplify complex legal challenges and make the process stress-free. Start your journey with a dedicated legal team that puts your needs first—because your future is worth it.

Parenting Arrangements Should Reflect Your Children's Needs

Ontario courts determine parenting arrangements based on the best interests of the child. The parenting pattern established during separation can become a factor courts consider when making longer-term decisions. Understanding what courts look for — and how to approach parenting arrangements thoughtfully — can help you make informed decisions during this period.

Alex Sutton lawyer owner of Sutton Law

Understanding the Process Is the First Step

Monday – Friday, 9 AM – 5 PM | Evenings by appointment

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Uncontested Divorce

If both spouses agree on the key terms, an uncontested divorce is usually faster, simpler, and less costly than a contested matter. We prepare and file the required documents, help avoid delays, and work to move your case forward efficiently.

Two individuals sit on a sofa, perhaps discussing matters with divorce lawyers. The person on the right wears a light pink shirt and black skirt, hands clasped. On the left, a white-shirted individual in gray pants holds a smartphone. Their faces are not visible as they navigate Ontarios legal services landscape.

Contested Divorce

When there is disagreement about parenting, support, property, or other issues, you need a divorce lawyer who can protect your position and keep the process moving. We provide strong advocacy, practical negotiation, and litigation support when needed.
Two people holding divorce papers sit across from a divorce lawyer in a suit, with a Lady Justice statue on the table. Pens and documents are prominent, suggesting a legal discussion or agreement process in Ontario.

Collaborative Divorce

For couples who want a more cooperative approach, collaborative divorce can reduce conflict and help preserve important family relationships. We guide clients through this process with a focus on fair solutions and workable agreements.

Understanding Ontario's Property Division Framework

Pre-marital property is generally excluded from equalization under Ontario’s Family Law Act, but only if it can be clearly traced and hasn’t been converted through other transactions. The rules around exclusions are fact-specific, and understanding how they apply to your situation requires a review of your particular circumstances.

Common-law partners do not automatically share property under Ontario’s Family Law Act. However, claims based on unjust enrichment or constructive trust may create entitlements depending on contributions made during the relationship. The outcome depends on the specific facts and how they are presented to the court.

While there is no automatic obligation to sell property upon separation, Ontario courts do have the authority to make orders regarding the matrimonial home, including partition and sale orders in appropriate circumstances. The available legal options depend on whether you were married, the nature of ownership, and other factors specific to your situation.

Alex Sutton
Immigration Lawyer

How We Work With You

1.

Initial Consultation

A focused session where we discuss your situation in plain language. You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of the process and what questions to consider going forward.

2.

Timelines & Cost Estimates

We provide anticipated timelines and an approximation of costs based on your circumstances — so you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed before committing to anything.

3.

Retainer & Planning

If you choose to proceed, we formalize the retainer agreement and develop a plan tailored to your specific situation, priorities, and budget.

4.

Dedicated Representation

You get a lawyer who knows your file, communicates proactively, and works diligently toward resolving your matter — through negotiation, mediation, or court proceedings as appropriate.

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Legal Protections Are Available When You Need Them

Ontario family law provides legal tools to address situations involving safety concerns, harassment, or urgent matters involving children. If you are dealing with a situation that requires immediate attention, there may be court processes available to you. A consultation can help you understand what options apply to your circumstances.

Alex Sutton lawyer owner of Sutton Law

What Our Clients Say

Clients often come to us during one of the hardest periods of their lives. Our job is to make the legal side clearer, more manageable, and more strategic.
5/5

“Sutton Law made a challenging time in my life much more manageable. Their expertise in Ontario divorce law and empathetic approach provided me with the clarity and confidence I needed. I highly recommend their services to anyone facing divorce proceedings.”

Michelle Howard
4.75/5

I spoke with Sutton Lawyers recently about my situation at work. I work at unionized environment and had issues with a harassing manager. My lawyer took the time to evaluate my situation and gave me a valuable advice. I recommend him for his knowledge and level of professionalism

Florence Brady
5/5

What an amazing service! They have helped my family many times throughout various complicated issues we had to deal with. Highly knowledgeable and experienced professionals that followed up on every detail.

Cassandra Hyler
5/5
My lawyer at Sutton Law was a complete godsend throughout the entire process of my LTB difficulties. He was able to collaborate with the other teams representation while ensuring my best interests were always top priority. He walked me through the entire process and was always available to answer questions and help me through the problem. He even went to court to represent me that day so I wouldn’t miss work and stayed there until he heard direct from the judges mouth that my name was cleared.
Olena Silchuk
4.75/5

Many thanks to Alex Sutton for his professionalism and attentive approach to my PR application . Alex and his team were always available and considerate of all the details. I sincerely recommend his services.

Moutu Abdou Salam Moutui
5/5

Mr Alex is a very experienced, competent and knowledgeable lawyer. I highly recommend him for any immigration issue. He initiated a mandamus for the delay of my application for Permanent Residency and I received my PPR within a week after starting the process. Thank you so much for everything.

Common Questions About Family Law in Ontario

How much does a divorce cost in Ontario?

Costs depend on whether your divorce is contested or uncontested. Uncontested divorces generally involve lower legal fees, while contested matters involving property, custody, or support can be significantly more complex. During a consultation, we can discuss anticipated costs based on the specifics of your situation.

Do I still pay child support with 50/50 custody?

In most cases, child support obligations exist regardless of the parenting schedule. With 50/50 shared custody, there is typically a set-off between both parents' obligations under the Federal Child Support Guidelines, and the higher-earning parent usually pays the difference.

Can my spouse force me out of our house?

Both married spouses have an equal right to possession of the matrimonial home under Ontario law, regardless of whose name is on title. Your spouse cannot lawfully force you to leave without a court order.

Does my common-law partner own half my house?

Not automatically. Common-law partners in Ontario do not have the same property rights as married spouses under the Family Law Act. However, claims based on unjust enrichment or resulting trust are possible depending on the circumstances, so the answer depends on the specific facts.

How long does a divorce take in Ontario?

An uncontested divorce typically takes several months from filing to the final order. Contested matters involving custody, property, or support can take considerably longer depending on the issues and court scheduling. We can provide a more specific estimate during a consultation.

What does 'best interests of the child' mean?

Ontario courts assess parenting arrangements based on what best serves the child's physical, emotional, and developmental needs. Factors include each parent's relationship with the child, stability, the ability to support the child's relationship with the other parent, and any safety concerns.

Can I get retroactive child support?

Ontario courts can order retroactive child support in appropriate circumstances, particularly where the paying parent failed to disclose income changes. The specifics depend on the facts, and a consultation can help you understand whether this applies to your situation.

What if my ex ignores our separation agreement?

A properly drafted and filed separation agreement can be enforced through the court. Enforcement options may include court orders, wage garnishment, and other mechanisms available under Ontario law.
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