How Long Do Custody Hearings Take? What You Need to Know

When you’re dealing with a custody case, time can feel like your enemy. You want answers quickly, but the process often takes longer than expected.

One of the most common questions is: how long do custody hearings last? The answer isn’t simple. It depends on the case, where you live, and how much both sides agree.

This guide will explain how long custody hearings usually last, what the timeline looks like, and what you can expect. Let’s get started.

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How Long Do Custody Hearings Typically Last in Canada?

Custody hearings in Canada can last from a few hours to several days. It all depends on how complicated the case is, how many issues there are, and if both parents have lawyers.

• Simple cases: Usually take half a day to one full day

• Complex cases: With expert witnesses or serious allegations, they can last many days or even weeks (not always in a row)

Judges try to keep hearings running smoothly, but delays happen if more time is needed for papers, witnesses, or talks between the parents.

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What Happens at the First Custody Hearing?

The first custody hearing sets the tone for the whole case. Usually, this is what happens:

• Review of temporary requests: The judge looks at short-term plans about parenting time, child support, or who stays in the family home.

• Case conferences: Informal talks that try to get both sides to agree without a full trial.

• Status checks: The court makes sure all paperwork is done right and both sides know what happens next.

Usually, no final decisions are made at the first hearing unless both parents agree. The goal is to clear up important issues and help everyone cooperate before the trial.

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Court Date in Ontario?

In Ontario, after you file your application, it usually takes 4 to 6 weeks to get your first court date for a hearing or case conference. But this can change depending on your region and how busy the courts are.

Things that affect how fast you get a date include:

• How busy your local court is

• If your case is urgent

• How complete your paperwork is when you submit it

For urgent cases, courts might schedule a hearing within a few days, especially if safety or abuse issues are involved.

(Source: Ontario Court Services)

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Family Court Process in Ontario: Key Steps You Should Know

Knowing how the family court process works in Ontario can help you get ready for each stage, from filing to the final decision. Here’s a simple overview:

1. Filing the application: Fill out forms about parenting, support, and finances.

2. Service of documents: Give the other parent all the papers legally.

3. First appearance or case conference: Try to find a settlement or temporary solution.

4. Settlement conference: Another chance to settle without a trial.

5. Trial management conference: Plan for the trial and focus on key issues.

6. Family court trial: If you don’t agree, the judge will decide at trial.

The process aims to solve problems early and avoid long trials. But delays happen if either parent doesn’t follow court rules or deadlines.

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Family Court Trial Costs in Ontario: What to Expect

Costs for family court depend on how difficult the case is and how long it takes. Here’s a rough idea:

• Simple uncontested hearings: $3,000 to $5,000

• Contested custody trials: $10,000 to $30,000 or more, especially with expert witnesses or long trials

You’ll also pay for:

• Lawyer fees (hourly or flat rate)

• Court filing fees

• Costs for financial or psychological reports (if needed)

Many families try mediation or collaborative law to save money and avoid court.

(Source: Law Society of Ontario)

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Filing for Joint Custody: How It Affects Hearing Timelines

If both parents are filing for joint custody and mostly agree on the terms, the case usually moves faster. Courts like it when parents want to work together and co-parent respectfully.

Joint custody cases often include:

• Parenting plans

• Time-sharing schedules

• Agreements on important decisions like health, school, and religion

When both sides agree, the court might issue a consent order without a long hearing. This saves time and legal costs.

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How Long Do Custody Hearings Last If No Agreement Is Reached?

If parents can’t agree before the hearing, the process takes longer:

• Preparation: Reviewing documents, getting witnesses ready, and filing motions

• The hearing: Can last several days if both sides present evidence and question witnesses

• Judge’s decision: Sometimes the judge needs extra time to review and writes a decision days or weeks later

Delays also happen if one side asks to postpone or misses deadlines. Being organized and ready can help the process go smoother.

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Final Thoughts

Custody hearings don’t follow one fixed timeline. Some last just a few hours, while others stretch over many days, especially if the case is complicated or contested.

To move through the family court process in Ontario faster:

• File all paperwork carefully and completely

• Try to settle outside of court when you can

• Learn your rights and what’s expected of you

Whether you’re filing for joint custody or preparing for a trial, knowing what to expect helps reduce stress and make better choices.

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Need a Better Way to Handle Custody Issues?

Custody hearings can be stressful, expensive, and drawn out—especially when there’s conflict. If you're looking for a way to reduce stress, save time, and stay focused on what’s best for your children, mediation may be the right step.

Contact Braystone Mediation today or call us at (519) 830-0155 to learn how we can support you through the process and help you find a peaceful resolution.

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