Services
Child Custody Lawyer Ottawa
If you have questions about child custody in Ottawa, contact Walker Legal Professional Corporation to speak with a lawyer who provides clear advice, personalized strategies, and steady guidance throughout the process. Reach out for a confidential consultation to protect your child’s interests and plan the next steps.
Overview
Legal matters involving child custody can feel overwhelming—especially when they affect your children, your relationship with the other parent, and your future. At Walker Legal Professional Corporation, our Child Custody Lawyer in Ottawa focuses on clear communication, personalized legal strategies, and practical guidance so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Our approach is straightforward, respectful, and centered on what matters most to you: the safety, health, and well-being of your children.
Our Process
Initial consultation — Confidential review of your family law issues and priorities.
Case plan — A tailored strategy focused on parenting time, decision-making responsibility, or urgent safety needs.
Negotiation and mediation — We pursue negotiated parenting arrangements where appropriate to reduce conflict and cost.
Court representation — Preparation of evidence and advocacy for orders that protect the child’s interests.
Implementation and follow-up — Assistance with enforcement, variations, or adjustments as your child’s needs evolve.
Our Services
Child custody consultations and case assessment
Negotiation and mediation for parenting arrangements and parenting agreements
Drafting and reviewing parenting plans and separation agreements
Representation in custody and access hearings, including court orders
Advice on decision-making responsibility and authority (education, health care, major decisions)
Emergency relief where a child’s safety is at risk (including domestic violence concerns)
Enforcement, variation, and appeal of custody and access orders
Support for parents of one or more children, including special needs considerations
Why Choose Us
Challenge Us with What Matters to You. We pledge the highest standards of professional legal services because family law affects real lives. Our team takes the time to understand your priorities and crafts personalized strategies that protect your rights and the best interests of the child. With proven results through negotiation, mediation, and court, we guide clients with clear advice and steady support every step of the way.
TAILORED LEGAL SOLUTIONS
FOR FAST & PRACTICAL RESULTS
- Strategic Legal Guidance
- We Fight for Your Rights
- WE PROTECT YOUR INTERESTS
- Free 30-Min Consultation
What our clients are saying
Working with George was easy & fast. George was very responsive and kind. He offered valuable advice & expertise. It was easy to navigate his website & he was quick to respond to my inquiry. I would highly recommend working with George and his team.
Erin Fast
Walker legal was able to help me with my custody agreement. George was responsive and explained things well. Everything was completed within months of meeting George.
Matt B
Jennifer W
ARE YOU LOOKING FOR LEGAL ASSISTANCE FROM A SKILLED LAWYER? CONTACT US TODAY
Frequently Asked Questions
What is child custody under Ontario law?
Child custody under Ontario family law refers to the legal process used to determine where a child lives, how parenting time is shared, and who holds decision-making responsibility for major decisions in the child’s life. In most cases, custody and access are structured through clear parenting arrangements that focus on stability, safety, and the child’s day-to-day life.
Who can apply for child custody in Ottawa?
Either parent, or another person legally involved in the child’s life, may apply for child custody in Ottawa. Applications often arise after separation or divorce, when one parent and the other parent are unable to agree. The court considers the child’s age, existing relationships, and each parent’s ability to meet the child’s needs.
What rights and responsibilities are involved with custody and access?
Custody and access involve rights to parenting time, the ability to visit and communicate with the child, and responsibilities related to care, supervision, and daily routines. Parents must also respect any parenting agreement, separation agreement, or court order, and share responsibilities tied to education, health, and emotional support.
How does the court decide what is in the best interests of the child?
The top priority is always the best interests of the child. Judges consider the child’s safety, physical and emotional health, stability, cultural background (including religion where relevant), and how the child is developing. The court also evaluates each parent’s ability to support the child’s well-being and reduce conflict.
What is decision-making responsibility and shared decision-making responsibility?
Decision-making responsibility refers to who makes major decisions about education, health care, and other important matters. In some cases, parents share shared decision-making responsibility, meaning cooperation is required. In other cases, one parent may hold sole authority if cooperation is not possible or safety concerns exist.
What is the difference between sole custody and shared custody?
Sole custody means one parent has primary authority over major decisions, while shared custody involves both parents participating meaningfully in decision-making and parenting time. The arrangement depends on communication, proximity, and whether cooperation is realistic given the circumstances involved.
Do I need a lawyer for child custody matters?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but family lawyers with extensive experience in custody and access matters can help protect your rights and your child’s interests. Lawyers assist with negotiation, drafting parenting plans, and representing clients if the matter becomes contested.
How long does the child custody process take?
The timeline varies depending on the level of conflict and whether mediation is successful. Negotiated outcomes may resolve in weeks or months, while contested matters involving safety, abuse, or domestic violence can take longer. Urgent concerns may require immediate court involvement.
What mistakes should I avoid during a custody dispute?
Avoid escalating conflict, ignoring existing agreements, or making unilateral decisions about parenting time. Courts look unfavorably on behaviour that disrupts stability or puts safety at risk. Seek legal advice early to avoid actions that could negatively affect your position.
Can custody or access orders be changed later?
Yes. A court order can be changed if circumstances materially change—for example, relocation, safety concerns, or changes in a parent’s ability. Orders can also be enforced if one party fails to comply.
How much does a child custody lawyer cost in Ottawa?
Costs depend on complexity, whether mediation or litigation is required, and how long the process lasts. During an initial consultation, we provide general information about fees and cost-effective strategies to resolve disputes efficiently.
What documents should I bring to a custody consultation?
Bring any existing separation agreement, parenting agreement, court orders, school or medical records, communication history, and notes outlining your concerns. This helps assess responsibilities, safety issues, and appropriate next steps.
How does custody affect finances and support?
Custody arrangements influence parenting time and may affect child support, but financial issues are handled separately. Clear agreements reduce future disputes and support long-term stability for the child’s life.
What happens if parents cannot agree?
If negotiation fails, mediation is often encouraged. When agreement is not possible, a judge will decide based on evidence and the interests of the child, issuing enforceable orders that set out responsibilities and access.
Is a parenting agreement legally binding?
A written parenting agreement can be legally binding if properly drafted and consistent with the child’s best interests. Many families formalize agreements through a separation agreement or court order for clarity and enforcement.
What should I do before starting the custody process?
Document parenting routines, safety concerns, and communication issues. Identify priorities related to education, health, and daily structure. Early legal guidance helps you understand options and protect the child from unnecessary conflict.
Service Areas
Ottawa
Surrounding Ottawa-area communities
Matters involving courts serving Ottawa
Resolve Your Legal Challenges
Legal matters, whether in family or employment law, can be stressful and time-sensitive. Our Ottawa lawyer specialize in providing focused, practical solutions designed to protect your rights and achieve effective outcomes.
By booking an appointment with our team, you take a concrete step toward resolving disputes, understanding your options, and safeguarding your future. We handle each case with precision and care, ensuring your unique situation is fully addressed. Don’t wait—secure your appointment today and move forward with confidence knowing experienced legal support is on your side.