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Uncontested vs Joint Divorce Ontario: Which Is Right for You?

Uncontested divorce · 5 min read · Updated October 5, 2026

Looking for help? Easy Path Divorce offers flat-fee services for uncontested divorce in Ontario. We prepare, file and manage your uncontested divorce for $599 + HST.

People often treat uncontested divorce and joint divorce as the same thing. They overlap, but they describe different things: one is about whether you agree, the other is about how you file.

Uncontested describes the situation

An uncontested divorce means neither spouse opposes the divorce and there are no disputes for a judge to resolve. It’s about the state of agreement between you. Learn more about uncontested divorce in Ontario.

Joint describes the application

A joint divorce means both spouses file the application together as co-applicants. It’s about who signs the paperwork.

How they fit together

Joint application Sole (simple) application
Uncontested? Always Yes, if the spouse doesn’t oppose
Who signs Form 8A Both spouses One spouse
Service required No Yes
Response period None 30 days (60 if outside Canada/U.S.)
Typical speed Fastest Slightly slower

So there are really two ways to get an uncontested divorce:

  1. A joint uncontested divorce, where you both sign and file together; or
  2. A sole uncontested divorce, where one of you files, the other is served and simply doesn’t oppose.

When to choose a joint uncontested divorce

  • You’re on good terms and both willing to sign.
  • You want the fastest route with no service costs.
  • You’ve already settled everything, ideally in a separation agreement.

When a sole uncontested divorce makes more sense

  • Your spouse agrees to the divorce but won’t sign anything.
  • Your spouse lives far away or is slow to respond.
  • You’d rather control the timing yourself.

This is also what many people mean by a simple uncontested divorce; see simple vs joint divorce and our simple divorce in Ontario page.

The requirements are the same either way

  • One year of separation before the divorce is granted.
  • One year of Ontario residence by either spouse before filing.
  • Reasonable child support arrangements if you have children.

We handle both

Whether you file jointly or alone, our uncontested divorce in Ontario service prepares, files and manages your divorce for $599 plus court fees.

Frequently asked questions

Is a joint divorce always uncontested?

Yes. Because both spouses sign the application together, a joint divorce is uncontested by definition.

Can a sole divorce be uncontested?

Yes. If one spouse files and the other is served but does not oppose the divorce, it proceeds as an uncontested divorce.

Which is faster, joint or sole uncontested divorce?

Joint is usually faster because it skips service and the 30-day response period.

Uncontested Divorce Ontario: We prepare, file and manage your uncontested divorce for $599 + HST.

See our uncontested divorce service

This article is general legal information for Ontario residents, not legal advice about your situation. Laws, court forms and fees change; contact us to confirm how they apply to you.

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