Digital Tools & Resources for Simple Divorce Filings in Ontario

Ontario’s Online Divorce Filing System

Where the Online System Is Located (Ontario e-Filing Service and Justice Services Online)

Ontario provides two primary portals for electronic divorce filing:

• Justice Services Online (JSO): This is the central platform where applicants can start and submit simple or joint divorce applications. It supports uploading forms, paying fees, and receiving electronic updates from the court.
• Ontario e-Filing Service: Integrated with JSO, this service allows users to electronically file court documents for family law matters. It offers guided steps, form upload options, and digital payment processing.

Eligibility for Using the Online System for a Simple Divorce

Most spouses filing for a simple divorce in Ontario are eligible to use the online system. Key requirements include:

• The divorce must be uncontested:
  The applicant and respondent cannot be disputing issues like property, support, or parenting within the divorce application. Those issues must be settled separately or agreed upon.
• At least one spouse must have lived in Ontario for the past 12 months:
  This residency requirement applies to all divorce applications in Ontario.
• Applicants must be filing either a simple or joint divorce:
  Contested divorce matters involving multiple claims (e.g., custody, support) generally require in-person or hybrid filings.

If spouses meet these conditions, they can proceed entirely through Ontario’s digital system without attending court.

Types of Applications That Can Be Filed Online (Simple, Joint, Some Uncontested Matters)

Ontario’s online filing system supports several types of divorce-related submissions:

Simple Divorce Applications (Form 8A): One spouse applies for the divorce, and the other is served. This is the most common type filed online.

Joint Divorce Applications: Both spouses apply together when all issues are agreed upon. This avoids the need for service and often results in faster processing.

Uncontested Matters: Applicants may file certain uncontested motions or requests through the online portal, provided they meet the system’s criteria and do not involve complex evidence or multiple claims.

Security and Privacy Measures within Ontario’s Digital Court Services

Ontario’s online divorce filing system is built with strict security and privacy protections to ensure that sensitive family information remains confidential. Key safeguards include:

• Encryption of all uploaded documents to prevent unauthorized access.
• Secure login authentication through government-approved digital credentials.
• Compliance with Ontario’s privacy laws, including the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA).
• Restricted access within the court system so only authorized personnel can view case files.
• Automatic audit trails that track submissions and updates for accuracy and accountability.

Downloadable Divorce Forms for Ontario Residents

Key Forms Required for Simple Divorce Filings (Form 8A, Form 36, etc.)

A simple divorce generally requires only a handful of forms, all of which are mandatory for processing. The most commonly required forms include:

• Form 8A – Application for Divorce:
  Used when one spouse applies on their own. This form includes marriage details, separation information, and the grounds for divorce (typically one year of separation).
• Form 36 – Affidavit for Divorce:
  Filed after the respondent has been served and the waiting period has passed. It confirms that the information in the application is accurate and that the divorce should proceed.
• Form 6B – Affidavit of Service:
  Required in simple divorces to prove the other spouse was properly served with the documents.
• Form 25A – Divorce Order:
  Applicants can include a completed draft of this form, allowing the judge to issue the final divorce order.
• Registration of Divorce Proceeding (Online Registration):
  Before filing, applicants must complete this mandatory online registration to obtain a confirmation number.

Where to Access the Official Downloadable Forms (Ontario Court Forms Website)

All official Ontario divorce forms are available free of charge on the Ontario Court Forms website. This is the province’s central repository for up-to-date, court-approved documents.

You can access:

• Fillable PDFs
• Instructions for each form
• Versions that reflect current Family Law Rules
• Additional materials for affidavits, service, and clerical requirements

Tips for Filling Out Forms Correctly to Avoid Rejection

Even minor errors on divorce forms can result in the court returning the application. To avoid delays:

• Use the latest version of every form from the Ontario Court Forms website.
• Follow the instructions carefully, ensuring all required sections are complete.
• Match names exactly as they appear on your marriage certificate (including middle names).
• Avoid leaving blanks—use “N/A” where necessary.
• Be consistent across forms, especially dates and separation details.
• Check spelling and dates twice, as clerical inconsistencies are a major reason for rejection.
• Ensure service documents are properly completed, especially Form 6B.
• Save digital copies of all completed forms for easy upload to Justice Services Online.

What Supporting Documents Need to Be Uploaded (Marriage Certificate, Separation Details)

In addition to the core forms, Ontario requires several supporting documents for a complete simple divorce filing. These may include:

• Marriage Certificate:
  An original or certified copy. If issued outside Canada, a translation and affidavit may be required.
• Proof of Service:
  If filing a simple divorce, Form 6B plus any additional service attempts or documents.
• Separation Details:
  Information confirming the date of separation and whether spouses remained in the same residence during that time.
• Name Change or Identification Documents:
  If your legal name differs from the name on the marriage certificate.
• Any existing agreements or orders:
  If the couple already has a separation agreement or past court orders related to support or property, these may be referenced as part of the filing.

Using Ontario’s Court Portal for Document Submission and Tracking

How to Create an Account on the Ontario Court Portal

Creating an account is the first step to accessing digital divorce services. Applicants can register using secure government credentials. The process typically includes:

1. Visit the Justice Services Online website and select the family law filing portal.
2. Create a login using a secure email and password or sign in using a My Ontario Account, depending on the system prompt.
3. Provide basic identification information, such as name and contact details.
4. Verify your email to activate your account.
5. Log in and access the Family Claims Online Filing section to begin preparing your divorce application.

Step-by-Step Outline for Uploading Forms and Supporting Documents

The portal provides a structured path to ensure applicants upload everything required for a complete simple divorce filing. A typical submission process includes:

1. Select the type of application (simple divorce, joint divorce).
2. Enter basic case details, including your court location and parties’ names.
3. Upload required forms, such as Form 8A, Form 36, and Form 6B (if applicable).
4. Upload supporting documents, such as your marriage certificate and any necessary translations.
5. Confirm all attachments meet the court’s file-size and format rules (PDF is preferred).
6. Review your submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.
7. Submit your filing electronically and receive a confirmation notice.

Paying Filing Fees Online Through the Portal

The Ontario Court portal allows applicants to pay their divorce filing fees securely online. The process includes:

• Entering payment information through the portal’s secure payment gateway.
• Using accepted methods such as credit card or debit, depending on the system.
• Reviewing the fee amount, which typically includes the divorce application fee and any additional charges for submitting affidavits.
• Receiving an instant digital receipt that confirms payment and attaches to your file history.

Online payment ensures the process is faster and eliminates the need for in-person transactions.

How to Track Application Status and Receive Updates

One of the biggest advantages of Ontario’s online court system is the ability to track your divorce application in real time. After submitting your documents, the portal allows you to:

• Check your case status, such as “submitted,” “under review,” or “awaiting judge’s decision.”
• Receive email notifications when the court requires additional information or makes updates to your file.
• Monitor deadlines and ensure all service or affidavit requirements have been met.
• Download documents, including the Divorce Order, once it is granted.

Portal Features: Secure Messaging, File History, and Digital Receipts

Ontario’s court portal includes several user-friendly tools that make the online divorce process more efficient:

• Secure Messaging:
  Allows applicants to receive notices or instructions from court staff without relying on mail or in-person communication.
• File History:
  A complete log of all uploaded documents, dates of submission, and any actions taken by the court.
• Digital Receipts and Confirmations:
  Automatically generated for each submission and payment, helping applicants maintain accurate records for their case.