Navigating family court is stressful under any circumstances. Knowing exactly where to go, what services are available, and what to expect at the Durham Region Courthouse in Oshawa can significantly reduce that stress.
Durham Region Courthouse — Location and Hours
The Ontario Court of Justice and the Superior Court of Justice family law division both operate out of the Durham Region Courthouse at 150 Bond Street East, Oshawa, Ontario L1G 0A2. The courthouse is generally open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Court proceedings begin at 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. depending on the proceeding type.
Parking and Transit
Paid parking is available in lots near the courthouse. The Durham Region Transit (DRT) serves the area — check drt.ca for current routes. If you are attending a morning hearing, plan to arrive at least 30 minutes early to account for security screening and finding your courtroom.
Services Available at the Courthouse
Family Law Information Centre (FLIC)
The FLIC at Oshawa offers procedural guidance, help finding forms, and referrals to community resources. FLIC staff cannot give legal advice, but they are a critical first stop for self-represented litigants.
Duty Counsel
Duty Counsel lawyers provide free brief legal advice on court days. Arrive early — availability is first-come, first-served. Duty Counsel can sometimes speak briefly on your behalf for short appearances.
Mediation Services
On-site mediation is available at many Ontario family courthouses and can help parties resolve disputes without a full trial. Ask FLIC about mediation options available through the Oshawa courthouse.
Tips for Durham Region Self-Represented Litigants
- File documents in person at the court office during filing hours (generally 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.)
- Bring three copies of any document you are filing
- Ask the court office clerk which courtroom your matter is assigned to
- Community Legal Clinics in Durham Region can provide additional support — search legalaid.on.ca for your nearest clinic
One Stop Therapy Shop — Serving Durham Region
One Stop Therapy Shop is based in Oshawa and serves self-represented litigants throughout Durham Region. Samantha provides legal document support, court document organization, and career services — with sliding-scale fees to make services accessible.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Samantha provides legal document preparation support in Ontario. Sliding-scale fees available.
Learn MoreRelated Resources
- Navigating Family Court as a Self-Represented Litigant
- Legal Aid Ontario Alternatives
- How to Write an Affidavit in Ontario
- Legal Resources Hub