How much does a first family-law consultation cost in Ontario?

First family-law consultations in Ontario typically run $200–$800 and last about 60 minutes. Many lawyers and paralegals offer a free or low-cost initial meeting (15–60 minutes) before charging for substantive advice. Hourly rates afterwards typically run $300–$650 for lawyers and $150–$300 for licensed paralegals.

What should I bring to a first family-law meeting?

Five items: three years of tax returns plus your most recent Notice of Assessment; your most recent pay stub or last two years of business financials; the date your separation began (written down); a one-page list of joint assets and debts; and a one-paragraph description of the current parenting status quo if children are involved.

Should I sign the retainer agreement at the first meeting?

No. Take the retainer home, read it twice, and compare it against any other quotes you are gathering. A reputable Ontario family lawyer expects this and will not pressure you to sign before you leave. Sign within a week if the fit is right; book a second consult if it is not.

Can a paralegal handle my family-law case in Ontario?

Ontario paralegals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and can handle several categories of family-law work at lower hourly rates than lawyers — negotiated agreements, form drafting, uncontested filings. They cannot represent you on contested divorce or complex equalization. For uncontested or near-uncontested matters, a paralegal is often a better fit before retaining a lawyer.

Your First Lawyer Meeting — Cairn

Before the retainer cheque · before the engagement letter

The hour most men waste.

CAIRN

A plain-language checklist for Ontario men.

Your First Lawyer Meeting

Inside this guide

What you’re about to read.

01Before the meeting.
02The ten questions.
03What to listen for. What to watch out for.
04What not to commit to — in the room.
05The seventy-two hours after.

Cairn provides general information about Ontario family law and the separation process. This guide is not legal advice specific to your situation. If your circumstances are complex — or if there is urgency around children, finances, or safety — speak with a licensed Ontario family law paralegal or lawyer.

Inside front·ii

Begin here

Read it tonight — use it tomorrow.

Five short parts, about ten minutes end-to-end. Print the ten questions in Part Two and bring them with you.

Start reading

Cairn · cairnguide.ca. This checklist provides general information about preparing for a family-law consultation in Ontario. It is not legal advice. The information here applies to Ontario and does not account for your individual circumstances. Fee ranges, form numbers, and procedural rules change — verify current information with a licensed Ontario family law paralegal or lawyer. If your situation involves domestic violence, urgent safety concerns, or imminent court deadlines, seek professional advice immediately. © 2026 Cairn. This guide may be shared freely in its complete, unmodified form.