Child Custody Petition

About this service

Custody, joint custody or visitation rights for a child, sought on its own or alongside a divorce. Courts decide on the welfare of the child, so the petition is built around schooling, care, income and stability. Includes drafting, filing and the first hearing; later hearings are billed separately. Court fee, stamp duty and government fees are extra, at actuals.

What you get

• Consultation on custody, guardianship and visitation
• Petition under the Guardians and Wards Act / personal law
• Application for interim custody or visitation
• Filing in the family court
• Appearance at the first hearing

How it works

1. 1

   Consultation

   The lawyer advises what the court will weigh.

2. 2

   Petition drafted

   Along with an interim custody application where needed.

3. 3

   Filed

   Filed in the family court where the child lives.

4. 4

   Hearings

   Representation, counselling and mediation dates handled.

Documents you will need

• Child's birth certificate
• Child's school records
• Marriage certificate and any divorce papers
• Your income and residence proof
• Anything bearing on the child’s welfare

Scans or clear photographs are fine. The lawyer handling your matter will tell you if anything else is needed once they have seen your papers.