Looking for help? Easy Path Divorce offers flat-fee services for simple divorce in Ontario. Flat-fee simple divorce for Ontario residents, from $399.
You’ll see the phrase simple divorce everywhere when you research divorce in Ontario. Here’s exactly what it means, who qualifies, and how it compares with other types of divorce.
Simple divorce definition
In Ontario, a simple divorce is a divorce application where one spouse asks the court only for a divorce, with no requests for property division, support or parenting orders. The spouse who files is the applicant; the other spouse is the respondent and must be served with the papers.
People also use the term more loosely to mean any straightforward, uncontested divorce where the couple has already sorted out the important issues.
Who is eligible for a simple divorce?
You can apply for a simple divorce in Ontario if:
- You’re legally married. The marriage can have taken place anywhere in the world.
- You meet the residency rule. You or your spouse has lived in Ontario for at least one year immediately before filing.
- You have a ground for divorce. Almost always, that’s living separate and apart for at least one year.
- You’re not asking the court to decide other issues. Property, support and parenting are either already settled (often in a separation agreement) or not relevant.
- Child support is in place, if you have children.
Simple vs joint vs contested divorce
| Simple | Joint | Contested | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who files | One spouse | Both spouses | One spouse |
| Disputes? | None | None | Yes |
| Spouse served? | Yes | No | Yes |
| Court appearance | Rarely | Rarely | Usually |
| Typical cost | Low | Low | High |
Read more in simple vs joint divorce and contested vs uncontested divorce.
How a simple divorce works
- Complete Form 8A and file it with the Superior Court of Justice.
- Have your spouse served by a process server.
- Wait for the response period (30 days, or 60 if outside Canada and the U.S.).
- File your affidavit for divorce and draft order.
- A judge reviews the file and grants the divorce, usually without a hearing.
Step-by-step detail: how to file a simple divorce in Ontario.
What does a simple divorce cost?
Court fees are $669. Professional help ranges from nothing (DIY) to a flat-fee service like ours ($399 for documents or $599 complete, plus HST). See how much a simple divorce costs in Ontario.
When a simple divorce isn’t the right fit
If you and your spouse disagree about parenting, support or property, or there are safety concerns, you’ll need more than a simple divorce. We’ll tell you honestly if that’s your situation.
Think you qualify? Learn about our flat-fee simple divorce in Ontario service.
Frequently asked questions
Is a simple divorce the same as an uncontested divorce?
Not exactly. A simple divorce is a type of application: one spouse asks only for a divorce. An uncontested divorce means nobody opposes it. Most simple divorces end up uncontested, and the terms are often used interchangeably.
Can I get a simple divorce if we have children?
Yes. The court must be satisfied that reasonable child support arrangements are in place, usually following the Federal Child Support Guidelines.
Can I get a simple divorce if my spouse lives outside Ontario?
Yes, as long as you or your spouse have lived in Ontario for at least one year before filing. Your spouse can be served wherever they live.
Simple Divorce Ontario: Flat-fee simple divorce for Ontario residents, from $399.
Start your simple divorceThis 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.