Now, let’s talk numbers.
- Court Fees – The basic government filing fees for a simple divorce in Ontario are $669. This includes:
- $212 when you file your application
- $449 when you get your divorce order
- Legal Fees (Optional) – If you hire a lawyer, expect to pay anywhere from $500 to $2,500, depending on how much help you need. Some law firms offer flat-rate simple divorce packages to make it more affordable.
- Service Fees – If you need to serve divorce papers to your spouse, this can cost between $50 to $100 if done by a professional process server.
- Additional Costs – If you lost your marriage certificate (oops), you’ll need to pay around $15 to $35 to get a new one.
💡 Total Estimated Cost:
- DIY Divorce: Around $669 (plus any extra fees if needed)
- Lawyer-Assisted Divorce: Anywhere from $1,200 to $3,000
Can You Do a Simple Divorce Yourself?
Yes! If you and your spouse are on good terms and you don’t mind handling paperwork, you can file for a simple divorce on your own. Here’s how:
- Get Your Forms Ready – You’ll need:
- Form 8A (Application for Divorce)
- Form 36 (Affidavit for Divorce)
- Your original Marriage Certificate
- File at the Court – Submit your documents at your local Ontario Superior Court of Justice and pay the $212 filing fee.
- Serve the Papers – You must legally serve your spouse with the divorce application (this can’t be done by you—it must be someone over 18).
- Wait for the Response – If your spouse doesn’t contest the divorce, you move to the next step.
- Finalizing the Divorce – After 31 days from the judge’s approval, your divorce becomes official. You’ll need to pay $449 for the final order.
Is Hiring a Lawyer Worth It?
If your divorce is truly simple, you might not need a lawyer. But if you’re unsure about paperwork, deadlines, or legal terms, hiring a lawyer can save you time and stress. Many law firms offer affordable divorce in Toronto packages to help keep costs down.
A lawyer can also:
✔ Ensure your documents are correct (one mistake can delay your divorce for months!)
✔ Help serve papers properly
✔ Give legal advice if anything unexpected comes up
If you’re worried about the cost, some lawyers offer fixed-fee simple divorces that range from $500 to $1,500—not bad for peace of mind!
How Long Does a Simple Divorce Take in Ontario?
The entire process usually takes 4 to 6 months, depending on court processing times. Here’s a rough timeline:
📌 Filing & Serving the Papers – 1 to 2 weeks
📌 Waiting Period (for Response) – 30 days
📌 Court Review & Approval – 6 to 12 weeks
📌 Final Divorce Order Issued – 31 days after approval
So, if everything goes smoothly, you can expect to be legally single in about 5 to 6 months.
Hidden Costs & Common Mistakes
Even a quick divorce in Ontario can have unexpected costs. Here are some things to watch out for:
❌ Incorrect Forms – If you mess up the paperwork, you may need to re-file and pay fees again.
❌ Serving the Papers Incorrectly – If you don’t follow the rules, your case can be delayed.
❌ Missing Court Deadlines – If you forget a deadline, you might have to start over.
❌ Not Knowing Your Rights – If there are financial matters involved, consult a lawyer before filing.
Final Thoughts: Should You DIY or Get Help?
If you and your spouse are on good terms, handling a simple divorce yourself can save you money. Just make sure to double-check your paperwork and follow all court rules.
But if you’re feeling overwhelmed, hiring a divorce lawyer can help avoid mistakes and speed up the process—especially if there are any unexpected issues.
No matter which route you take, just remember: divorce is a process, not a race. Take your time, do it right, and before you know it, you’ll be legally single and ready to move forward! 🚀
Need Help with Your Divorce?
If you’re looking for an easy divorce process in Canada, our team at Key Family Law specializes in helping people navigate simple divorces in Ontario. Whether you need help with paperwork, serving documents, or just some guidance, we’re here for you!
📞 Call us today for a free consultation and let’s make this process as stress-free as possible.