When families separate, the hardest part is often figuring out what’s best for your kids. Child Custody & Access decisions aren’t just legal issues, they’re deeply personal, emotional, and sometimes overwhelming. You might be worried about stability, routines, or simply making sure your child feels loved and supported no matter what.
At Tailor Law, we understand how heavy this can feel. That’s why our family lawyers take the time to listen, explain things in plain language, and guide you step by step. We’ve helped parents in Mississauga, Toronto, and across the GTA find solutions that protect their child’s well-being while respecting their parental rights in Child Custody & Access matters in ontario. You don’t have to go through this alone we’re here to help
Quick Answer: How Is Child Custody & Access Decided in Ontario?
In Ontario, child custody and access (now commonly called “decision-making responsibility” and “parenting time”) are determined based on the child’s best interests. Courts consider factors like stability, parental involvement, and the child’s needs. Tailor Law’s lawyers help you negotiate, mediate, or litigate custody arrangements that prioritize your child’s well-being and your parental rights.
Service Overview: Understanding Child Custody & Access in Ontario
Child custody and access refer to the legal rights and responsibilities parents have for their children after separation or divorce. Ontario law uses the terms “decision-making responsibility” (who makes important decisions for the child) and “parenting time” (when the child spends time with each parent).
Why Custody & Access Matter
- Protects your child’s emotional and physical well-being
- Clarifies each parent’s rights and responsibilities
- Reduces conflict and uncertainty for the whole family
Types of Child Custody & Access in Ontario
- Sole Decision-Making Responsibility: One parent makes all major decisions for the child.
- Joint Decision-Making Responsibility: Both parents share decision-making, regardless of where the child lives.
- Shared Parenting Time: The child spends at least 40% of the time with each parent.
- Split Parenting Time: Each parent has primary care of one or more children.
- Supervised Access: Parenting time is supervised due to safety or other concerns.
How Custody & Access Are Determined
- Best Interests of the Child: The primary consideration for any arrangement.
- Factors Considered: The child’s needs, relationships, stability, parental history, and the child’s own wishes (depending on age and maturity).
- Parenting Plans: Detailed agreements outlining decision-making, schedules, holidays, and communication.
- Court Orders: If negotiation fails, a judge decides based on evidence and the child’s best interests.
- Modification: Arrangements can be changed if circumstances change significantly.
Learn more about Family Law Services
Why Choose Tailor Law for Child Custody & Access Cases in Ontario?
- 10+ Years of Family Law Experience: Our lawyers have helped parents in Mississauga, Toronto, and the GTA resolve even the most complex custody cases.
- Compassionate, Child-Centered Approach: We prioritize your child’s well-being while protecting your parental rights.
- Proven Results: We have successfully negotiated, mediated, and litigated custody and access matters involving relocation, high conflict, and special needs.
- Comprehensive Support: From parenting plans to court representation and enforcement, we guide you every step of the way.
- Multilingual Team: Serving the diverse communities of the GTA in multiple languages.
How We’re Different
| Feature | Tailor Law PC | Other Firms |
| Transparent Billing | ✔ Upfront, clear pricing | ✖ Hidden or unclear fees |
| Mediation & Litigation Expertise | ✔ Skilled in both | ✖ Often limited to one |
| 24/7 Consultations | ✔ Flexible, urgent support | ✖ Limited hours |
| Personalized Strategies | ✔ Tailored to your unique case | ✖ Generic, templated service |
| Multilingual Services | ✔ Languages for GTA communities | ✖ English only |
| Free Initial Consultation | ✔ No obligation, honest advice | ✖ Paid first meeting |
Our Process: How Tailor Law Handles Child Custody & Acces
- Free Consultation:
- We listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
- Information Gathering:
- We help you collect relevant documents, evidence, and details about your child’s needs and your parenting history.
- Parenting Plan Development:
- Our lawyers work with you to create a detailed, practical parenting plan that covers schedules, holidays, decision-making, and communication.
- Negotiation & Mediation:
- We negotiate with the other parent and, if needed, participate in mediation to reach a fair agreement.
- Court Representation:
- If negotiation fails, we advocate for your interests in court and present a compelling case focused on your child’s best interests.
- Enforcement & Modification:
- We help enforce court orders and modify arrangements if circumstances change.
Take the First Step Protect Your Child’s Best Interests
Don’t leave your child’s future to chance. Call (905) 366-0202 or book a confidential consultation online. Our lawyers are available 24/7, and your first meeting is always free.
Reviews & Testimonials
“Tailor Law guided me through a tough custody battle and always put my child’s needs first. Their lawyers were compassionate and knowledgeable.”
— M.C., Mississauga
“Thanks to Tailor Law, we created a parenting plan that works for everyone. I finally have peace of mind.”
— L.T., Toronto
“Their team helped me gain more access to my kids and made sure my rights were respected in court.”
— S.R., Brampton
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Frequently Asked Questions About Child Custody & Access in Ontario
1. What’s the difference between custody and access?
Custody (now “decision-making responsibility”) is about who makes major decisions for the child. Access (“parenting time”) is about when the child spends time with each parent.
2. How does the court decide custody and access?
The court considers the child’s best interests, including needs, relationships, stability, and parental ability.
3. Can we make our own parenting plan?
Yes, parents are encouraged to agree on a plan. The court will review it to ensure it serves the child’s best interests.
4. What if we can’t agree?
If negotiation and mediation fail, a judge will decide based on evidence and the child’s best interests.
5. Can custody or access be changed later?
Yes, if there’s a significant change in circumstances.
6. What if there are concerns about safety?
The court can order supervised access or limit contact to protect the child.
7. Do children get a say?
Depending on their age and maturity, the court may consider the child’s wishes.
8. How long does the process take?
It depends on the complexity and level of agreement. Simple cases can be resolved quickly; high-conflict cases may take longer.
9. What if one parent wants to move away?
Relocation cases are complex. The court will consider the impact on the child and relationships with both parents.
10. How much does it cost?
Fees depend on complexity. Tailor Law offers transparent, upfront pricing and payment plans. Your first consultation is free.
Lawyer Bio: Deepa Tailor
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[Alt text: Deepa Tailor, Managing Lawyer at Tailor Law PC]
Deepa Tailor, H.BSc, J.D.
Managing Lawyer, Tailor Law Professional Corporation
Deepa Tailor is a respected family lawyer with an H.BSc and J.D., and over a decade of experience helping parents resolve complex custody and access cases. A graduate of the University of Windsor Faculty of Law and a member of the Law Society of Ontario, Deepa is known for her child-centered, strategic approach and dedication to fair outcomes.
This content was legally reviewed by Deepa Tailor, Managing Lawyer at Tailor Law PC.
Take Action Now – Secure Your Child’s Future
Don’t wait to protect your child’s best (905) 366-0202 or book your free consultation online now. Our experienced family law team is ready to help—24/7.
