Parenting Plans in Ontario: Building Stability After Separation

When parents separate or divorce, creating a clear and well-structured parenting plan is one of the most important steps toward ensuring stability for their children. A parenting plan provides a roadmap for how parents will share time, make decisions, and maintain healthy communication — all while focusing on the child’s best interests.

What Is a Parenting Plan?

A parenting plan is a written agreement that sets out how parents will share parenting time and decision-making responsibility after separation. It can include details such as:

• Parenting schedules, including holidays and vacations

• Decision-making authority over health care, education, and extracurricular activities

• Methods of communication between parents and with the child

• Procedures for resolving disputes that may arise later

The goal is to promote structure, reduce conflict, and create a stable environment where children can thrive.

The Legal Framework in Ontario

Parenting plans in Ontario are governed by both the Divorce Act and the Children’s Law Reform Act. These laws emphasize that all parenting arrangements must reflect the best interests of the child, taking into account factors such as the child’s needs, emotional well-being, and relationships with each parent.

Even when parents reach agreement, it’s important that the plan aligns with these legal standards and is drafted in a way that can be recognized and enforced by the court if necessary.

How We Can Help

At Michael Coristine Law, we understand that effective parenting plans require both empathy and foresight. As a litigation-focused family law firm, we help parents negotiate and draft parenting plans that are practical, fair, and fully compliant with Ontario law.

Our firm provides:

• Comprehensive legal drafting to ensure enforceability and clarity

• Strategic advice for managing potential areas of conflict

• Court representation if disputes escalate or changes become necessary

We take a proactive approach — helping you build a parenting plan that not only works for today, but protects your rights and your child’s well-being for the future.

Start Building a Strong Foundation for Your Family

If you are negotiating, updating, or disputing a parenting plan, contact Michael Coristine Law for experienced guidance. Our team will help you create a clear, stable arrangement that prioritizes your child’s best interests and stands up in court if challenges arise.