How to Get an Easy Divorce in Canada

In certain circumstances, such as a shotgun wedding, an annulment may be an option.

The fastest and simplest way to get a divorce in Canada, according to divorceincanada.ca, is to use an arbitrator to settle the divorce. An arbitrator will settle all issues such as custody, alimony and division of assets, and file the necessary paperwork. Without an arbitrator, the process can take longer if couples choose to bicker over these matters.

Things You'll Need

• Contact information for Ministry of Attorney General
• Application for divorce from province or territory

Instructions

1. Seek a family counselor. The Ministry of Health provides free access to family therapy. Going to family therapy will demonstrate to the courts and arbitrator that the couple has attempted to work out their issues but cannot. As a result, time will not be spent by a mediator trying to convince a couple to seek alternatives like separation.

2. Discuss the terms of the divorce. Determine how specific assets will be allocated, who gets what property, possessions and money. Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) suggests that this specific process will help in settling the divorce in a timely fashion. Arbitrators and judges will then have an easier time settling the divorce if both parties have taken the first steps themselves. Leave nothing to assumption and work out every detail and foreseeable circumstance. This definitely helps move the divorce process along faster.

3. Seek mediation or arbitration. If both parties cannot agree on the terms of the divorce, seek a mediator or arbitrator to help clarify the specifics of the divorce. Both The Ministry of the Attorney General and divorceincanada.ca suggest that using an arbitrator or mediator saves not only time, but money. It is strongly advised by both organizations that this method be taken to expedite the divorce proceedings. Although it is not necessary to have a lawyer, the government of Canada strongly encourages even those going through a simple divorce to at least consult a mediator or arbitrator to handle the divorce proceedings.

4. File for divorce. In Canada, divorce is done by the province or territory. Visit the Ministry of The Attorney General's office to find the necessary paperwork in order to submit an application for divorce. The forms are fairly standard--although there is some variation between provinces. If the paperwork is filled out correctly and both parties agree on the terms of the divorce, then a court date will not be necessary and the divorce will be processed. Using an arbitrator or mediator to help file the divorce will expedite the process, as he will be familiar with the procedure and will ensure the application gets processed quickly by completing it correctly.

References

• Divorce in Canada: Free information about Divorce in Canada
• Divorce in Canada: What You Should Know about Family Law in Ontario
• CLEO: Getting Divorced
• Ministry of the Attorney General: Divorce and Separation