Who handles family law?
Family Law
Family law is split between federal and provincial. Federal handles divorce and child support guidelines, provinces manage family courts and child protection, and municipalities issue marriage licences.
⚠️ Shared Jurisdiction: This area involves multiple levels of government. The information below shows the primary responsibility at each level, but overlap is common. When in doubt, start with the level most directly related to your issue.
Federal
Parliament of Canada
- ● Divorce Act
- ● Federal child support guidelines
- ● Spousal support
- ● International child abduction (Hague Convention)
💡 Example: Consult the Divorce Act for federal requirements, or contact your MP about family law reform.
Provincial
Provincial Legislature
- ● Provincial family courts
- ● Child protection and welfare
- ● Adoption services
- ● Provincial child and spousal support enforcement
💡 Example: Contact your provincial family court, or your MPP/MLA about family law services.
Municipal
City / Town Hall
- ● Marriage licences
- ● Vital statistics (birth, death, marriage registration)
- ● Local family services
- ● Community mediation programs
💡 Example: Apply for a marriage licence at your municipal office.
Quick Reference — Who to Contact
🏛️ Federal
Your Member of Parliament (MP)
🏢 Provincial
Your MPP, MLA, or MNA
🏘️ Municipal
Your City Councillor
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