What to Expect at a Case Conference in Ontario

A case conference is usually one of the first court appearances in an Ontario family law case. It can feel intimidating, but understanding what it is and what to expect makes a significant difference in how you prepare.

What Is a Case Conference?

A case conference is an informal meeting with a judge (or in some courts, a case management master) to discuss the issues in your case, explore settlement possibilities, and set a schedule for how the case will proceed. It is not a hearing where evidence is tested — it is a structured conversation.

What Happens at a Case Conference?

The judge will review the case conference briefs filed by both parties, ask questions about the issues in dispute, encourage both parties to consider resolving matters without going to trial, and set timelines for next steps.

What You Need to File Beforehand

Both parties must file a Form 17A (Case Conference Brief) at least seven days before the conference date. This form asks you to outline the issues in dispute, what you have agreed on, and what you are requesting from the court. Filing on time and completing the brief thoroughly shows the judge you are prepared.

What to Bring

• Your completed Form 17A
• A copy of all court orders already in place
• Notes on what you are asking for and why
• A list of agreed facts to help streamline discussion

Tips for Self-Represented Litigants

Be respectful and calm. The judge is not there to decide your case at this stage — they are there to help the parties move toward resolution. Listen carefully to what the judge says. Their comments, even informal ones, signal how they see the issues.

Do not argue with the other party at a case conference. Present your position clearly and let the judge guide the discussion. Bring a notepad and write down anything the judge recommends.

After the Case Conference

The judge will issue a case conference endorsement, which is a brief written record of what was discussed and any decisions or timelines set. Keep this in your court binder. It is an important part of your file.

Related Resources

• Navigating Family Court as a Self-Represented Litigant
• Court Hearing Checklist Ontario
• How to Write an Affidavit in Ontario
• Legal Resources Hub