Court Hearing Checklist for Ontario Family Court

Preparation is everything in family court. Whether it is a motion, a case conference, or a trial, having a clear checklist helps you walk in organized and confident.

One Week Before

• Re-read all affidavits and court orders in your file
• Review the other party's most recent filed materials
• Organize your court binder by tab
• Confirm the date, time, courtroom, and format (in-person or virtual)
• Know your court file number
• Prepare a one-page summary of what you are asking for and why

Day Before

• Pack your court binder and all document copies
• Print three copies of anything you want the judge to see: one for you, one for the other party, one for the court
• Plan your route and parking
• Set two alarms
• Prepare what you will wear — dress professionally and conservatively

Day of Hearing

• Arrive at least 30 minutes early
• Check in with the court clerk
• Find your courtroom and confirm proceedings are running on time
• Do not argue with the other party in the hallway
• Silence your phone completely
• Have water and a notepad

In the Courtroom

• Stand when the judge enters and exits
• Address the judge as "Your Honour"
• Speak clearly and slowly
• Do not interrupt the other party or the judge
• If you do not understand a question, it is acceptable to ask for clarification
• Take notes throughout

After the Hearing

• Ask for a copy of the endorsement or order from the court clerk
• Note any next steps, deadlines, or upcoming dates
• Update your court binder immediately

What to Bring

• Photo ID
• Your court binder (organized by tab)
• Extra copies of key documents
• Pen and notepad
• Your court file number
• Contact information for the other party's lawyer (if applicable)

Related Resources

• How to Organize Your Court Documents
• How to Write an Affidavit in Ontario
• What to Expect at a Case Conference in Ontario
• SafeGround — Court Preparation Tools