Can you represent yourself in Family Court?
Short answer: Yes, absolutely. The Canadian Judicial Council publishes a handbook to help you do just that (Handbook).
Should you represent yourself?
Short answer: It depends.
Whether or not you should represent yourself depends on you and your case, and on the people and issues involved. Do you suspect that your spouse is hiding assets? Are you convinced that he/she is a danger to your children? Are there complicated property issues to be sorted out?
And you? Are you up to the task of defending your own interests and those of your children in Court? Are you mentally and emotionally prepared to handle the intricacies of the court system, understanding the legislation, case law, the Court rules, and negotiating each of the issues with your ex or his/her lawyer?
Family Court isn’t easy. It has a steep learning curve. There are rules that you will be expected to know if you represent yourself, procedures, and timelines, not to mention the law itself. A Google or Chat GPT search can spit out procedural guides and Court documents can be filed online. Learning how to upload, navigate, and refer to documents in the Court’s online system that keeps track of Court documents can be a daunting experience.
Consider whether you want to take on these responsibilities yourself, or if you’d rather hire a lawyer to help you with this.
If you have any questions about your Family Court case, or if you want to try to avoid further litigation, our lawyers have the necessary experience to help. Reach out to us for a free initial consultation.