Cathy MerrittNot every love story ends with violins playing on a sunset stroll. I know that because a close friend went through a divorce a few years back, and it was no fairytale.
The early stages were especially tough. She had no direction or someone experienced enough to ease the pressure and level the playing field (her ex had a lawyer).
Things only changed when a capable divorce attorney stepped in. You’d be wise to do the same, particularly if assets, safety, and custody are disputed. Fortunately, we found the best ones in the city, which we list below.
If your case involves a serious offence, you might also want to check out the top criminal defence lawyers in town.
How much do divorce lawyers charge in Canada?
Most seasoned divorce lawyers in Canada charge $500–$700 per hour, though some start at just $250. The lawyer’s experience, case complexity, and level of conflict (contested vs uncontested) often dictate the cost.
You must also prepare for extra divorce court filings, which cost $224 for the initial application and $445 for the final order.
How We Chose
Alibhai Law
Address: 207 – 285 Taunton Road East, Oshawa, Ontario L1G 3V2
Contact Details: (365) 442-4816
Operating Hours:
- Monday – Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Saturday – Sunday: Closed
Alibhai Law offers focused divorce and family law services backed by years of exclusive experience in the field. The firm is led by Tasneem Alibhai, who has practiced family law since being called to the bar in 2007.
The firm handles important divorce-related matters such as child support, spousal support, parenting arrangements, and property division. Their legal approach is centered on finding efficient and practical solutions that protect the interests of clients and their families.
A major strength of the firm is its personalized approach to every case. Clients receive guidance that is tailored to their unique circumstances and long-term goals during difficult family transitions.
Tasneem Alibhai is also certified in collaborative family law, which can help divorcing couples pursue respectful and out-of-court resolutions. This process focuses on reducing conflict while supporting the needs and priorities of the family.
When negotiations are unsuccessful, the firm is prepared to represent clients throughout the court process. Their experience in both settlement discussions and litigation provides clients with balanced legal support.
The firm also places importance on maintaining positive solicitor-client relationships throughout divorce proceedings. This supportive and professional approach may help clients feel more informed and confident during emotionally challenging situations.
Overall, Alibhai Law presents itself as a dependable option for individuals seeking experienced divorce lawyer services. Their combination of compassionate support, collaborative law knowledge, and courtroom experience makes the firm well-rounded in handling family disputes.
Tasneem is an outstanding and one of a kind lawyer.
“Tasneem is an outstanding and one of a kind lawyer. I didn’t expect a lawyer to go above and beyond, conduct herself with professional expertise as well as show empathy and consideration for my matter. I cannot express how grateful I am to Tasneem. I strongly recommend her professional services if you are seeking a family lawyer.”
Tami Rafique, Google Review
She was professional, knowledgeable, and honest
“Tasneem was incredibly supportive throughout my case. She was professional, knowledgeable, and honest, always quick to respond with genuine care. She made me feel heard and understood, and her guidance truly made a difference for me. Her kindness, dedication, honesty, and clear communication really stood out. I’m so grateful for all she’s done and wouldn’t hesitate to reach out to her again if I need support in the future. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking exceptional service.”
David, Google Review
Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers
Address: 200 Bay St. Suite 1200
Contact Details: +1 647-492-1481
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers didn’t last 28-plus years for being mediocre.
For one, they provide direct, prompt, easy-to-follow, and structured advice during consults, helping avoid procedural mistakes from the get-go. Notable mentions from the clients include Natalie Derbyshire and Jessica Lipton.
Their signature Collaborative Approach deserves a shout too. It’s a less adversarial method where the parties involved negotiate a consensual settlement without going to court.
You can depend on them if negotiations go south, though. Susanna Crichlow and Golan Yarong are among their best in litigation; both have secured favourable outcomes in divorce cases that have run for years before their intervention.
Unsurprisingly, the firm doesn’t come cheap. The initial consults alone will set you back $310 (free appointments are only occasional).
Scheduling gripes are something to be wary of as well. Russel Alexander’s top guns can be hard to book.
The consolation is they do respond fast.
Excellent Lawyer
I would highly recommend Susanna Crichlow. She was extremely professional and competent in dealing with my son’s complex divorce case. She pays much attention to detail. She will take the time to answer any questions in a manner that is easy to understand. She clearly spells out all options available and the pros and cons for each one. Excellent lawyer without a doubt.
Jane Griffiths, Google Review
Wonderful Support
Natalie Derbyshire was a wonderful support to me, and is kind, caring, and professional at all times. I would highly recommend her to all those undergoing a separation from their spouse.
Kristine Wisniewski, Google Review
Simple Divorce – Family Lawyer Toronto
Address: 1000 Finch Ave W Suite 600b, North York
Contact Details: +1 416-901-7992
Operating Hours:
- Mon to Thu – 9 am to 6 pm
- Fri – 9 am to 5 pm
- Sat – 10 am to 4 pm
One perk of choosing Simple Divorce is not breaking the bank. Clients say the firm is quite upfront and reasonable when it comes to fees, with flexible payment plans and free office consults as a bonus.
And they’re no strangers to positive results. Usman Sadiq, for instance, has won gruelling and year-long cases, one even lasting for 8 years!
If you’d rather keep things civil, they’re still a top call. In fact, a common sentiment is they move settlements quickly, even if the other party isn’t in Toronto anymore.
The catch is they don’t have around-the-clock support.
Responses could also be quicker. A client wasn’t too pleased about getting late callbacks or emails after booking an appointment.
We see no major red flags past that, especially in experience; Simple Divorce has been around for more than 16 years.
Very Responsive
Highly recommend Sadiq Professional Law firm. Usman Sadiq and Mohammad Ahmed handled my divorce case with professionalism. They are very knowledgeable and were very responsive! They put me at ease throughout the legal process and provided excellent service!!
Vanessa Sequeira, Google Review
Extremely Helpful
Sadiq law has been extremely helpful in filing my divorce. My ex was being uncooperative and I needed help getting things back on track. The simple process took the stress and worry out, and everything was quickly resolved thanks to Sadiq law. Communication was straightforward and timely. Will definitely go to them for any future needs!
Rs Ss, Google Review
Benmor Family Law Group
Address: 77 Bloor St W Suite 600
Contact Details: +1 416-489-8890
Operating Hours: Mon to Fri – 9 am to 5 pm
Benmor Family Law Group is one of Toronto’s most battle-tested outfits. Aside from opening in 1997, most cases they oversee are high-conflict and messy ones.
What matters more, of course, is they often achieve positive outcomes. Such results are usually pinned on the firm’s highly strategic and tenacious style.
It’s not to say they’re poor at peaceful settlements. Part of their strategy is to minimize a client’s expenses by maintaining good relations with the other party.
Teamwork is another notable trait of Benmor. Cases are managed as a group, and clients receive honest yet compassionate advice from several lawyers, usually Steve Benmore and Leanne Townsend.
Quick booking is strongly advised, though. This firm is on the smaller side, so scheduling can get tricky.
They don’t have Saturday or Sunday office hours either, a pain for the busier lot.
But hey, you can always reach them via the 24/7 helpline!
Impressive
I often have clients I need to refer to other lawyers in areas like family law. The level of expertise and professionalism I’ve seen with this firm is impressive. Richard Benmor goes out of his way and adds real value to my clients. A family law firm I have no hesitation in highly recommending.
Vandana T, Google Review
Made a Huge Difference
During my divorce I was going through a very stressful time and not myself, but Steve Benmor and his team guided me with patience, compassion, and expertise. Steve kept me informed and confident in my decisions, which made a huge difference. A special thank you to senior law clerk Marigona, who supported me every step of the way—helping me complete tasks and gather critical information when it all felt overwhelming.
I’m truly grateful for everything Benmor Family Law did to help me through and highly recommend them.
Luis Moreira, Google Review
Kazandji Law | Family Law & Criminal Defence
Address: 7191 Yonge St Suite 310, Thornhill
Contact Details: +1 647-945-6490
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Quality customer care is one reason Kazandji Law is popular. Even after hours, their lawyers answer calls, texts, emails, and questions in a timely manner.
And there’s no rush. Clients say that Fadi and his team patiently respond to numerous questions while dropping valuable advice.
That standard extends beyond the consult phase. The firm’s case management style is proactive and honest, often gunning for cost-effective dispute resolution.
Better yet, Kazandji’s track record is solid. Some noteworthy outcomes include preserving the key assets of a high-net-worth client, shared parenting agreement, custody relocation, and dismissal of a spousal support claim.
A minor snag is they handle criminal law as well, unlike most picks here that are laser-focused on family law alone.
You can also find cheaper options if needed.
Thankfully, consults are free, and they don’t mind suggesting a better fit.
Great to Work With
Amand Hoque was my lawyer representative for kazandi law, he is very easy going and great to work with , makes a stressfull matter feel not so heavy. We are still in the middle of the process but he has been very hepfull as my lawyer during this time. Highly recommend.
Bradley Kuula, Google Review
Worked Efficiently
Absolutely wonderful to work with. Delivered superb results, very knowledgeable and responsive. Highly recommend. Communicated excellently. Saved my future from a most unfortunate mistake. I still have a chance at a career, worked efficiently, and timely as possible with the challenges. Thank you again, very happy about my choice in dealing with my criminal matter. Usman was excellent to work with. Delivered great results.
SS ss, Google Review
Nussbaum Family & Divorce Lawyers
Address: The Madison Centre, 4950 Yonge St Suite 801, North York
Contact Details: +1 647-557-9698
Operating Hours: Daily – 24 hours
Since 2013, Nussbaum Family & Divorce Lawyers’ primary goal has been to mediate effectively so clients may save time and cash.
But should chats fall through, they can provide litigators with Ontario Court of Justice and Supreme Court experience.
Our interviewees confirm that. They especially praised attorneys Barry Nussbaum, Julia Passeri, Sophia Schwartz, and Ari Rubin for efficiently managing complex separation and custody arrangements.
If we had to tweak one thing, it would be clients being shuffled between assistants. Responses are speedy, yes, but getting passed around can spoil it.
And while they’re generally transparent about the invoices, the fees remain a touch higher than most.
On a positive note, the first 30 minutes and initial case review cost zero.
You rarely have to worry about language barriers either. They have associates fluent in Mandarin, Hindi, Konkani, Marathi, Farsi, Dari, and English.
Took Care of My Needs
It was a pleasure dealing with Barry and Daniel.
I was very pleased how quickly they responded, how informative they were regarding my separation agreement concerns and how throughly and efficiently they took care of my needs..
I found Barry to be very honest and very fair.
I would highly recommend them.
Rhona Hall, Google Review
A Gem
I contacted Nussbauam law (after hours) to request unbundled services relating to my separation/Family Law case. Barry was quick to respond to my questions and arrange quotes for each service. I requested quotes for each step and there were NO “surprise” charges when it came to billing.
I especially want to thank Alana C as she handled my court filings promptly and before all deadlines. This is very much appreciated during an extremely stressful time. She is a gem.
Thank you to the team at Nussbauam Law.
stealth mode, Google Review
