Domestic Contracts in Ontario — Secure Your Future, Your Way

The Power of Domestic Contracts


A domestic contract in Ontario is a privately negotiated agreement allowing couples to set terms for property, financial support, and future arrangements — all outside of court. Governed by the Family Law Act, these agreements offer control, privacy, and clarity.


We’ve guided hundreds through their legal needs. Let’s help you too.


Ontario couple shaking hands with a licensed paralegal after registering a domestic contract, symbolizing trust, clarity, and professional family law support.

Types of Domestic Contracts in Ontario


In Ontario, both cohabitation agreements and marriage contracts are permitted (Family Law Act, s. 52–53).


How Courts Evaluate Domestic Contracts


Ontario courts look at two main criteria:

  • Did both parties negotiate fairly and knowingly?
  • Does the agreement still make sense given current circumstances?


  • This framework stems from the Miglin v. Miglin decision.
  • However, the more recent Anderson v. Anderson case highlights that this analysis is applied carefully and not universally.


Important Consideration on Child Support

Be aware that waiving child support via a domestic contract may not be enforceable. Ontario courts typically don’t uphold such waivers.

Why Ontario Couples Choose Domestic Contracts


  • Personalized & private solutions — No one-size-fits-all approach.
  • Flexible & cost-effective — Often quicker and less expensive than court procedures.
  • Legally enforceable — Valid when written, signed, and witnessed. When properly drafted, courts and FRO can enforce them.
  • Built on full disclosure — Financial transparency is mandatory. Without it, contracts may be overturned.
  • Strong foundation — The Miglin decision makes fair negotiation and legal advice essential.
Ontario paralegal reviewing and explaining domestic contract documents with a client, pointing with a pen while the client listens and reads attentively, symbolizing clarity and enforceability in family law agreements.
Ontario paralegal witnessing a male client sign a domestic contract while his female partner looks on smiling, symbolizing trusted legal guidance and enforceable family law agreements.

Who Should Register a Domestic Contract in Ontario?


You should strongly consider registration if:



  • ✔ You’ve signed a separation agreement and want it enforceable by law
  • ✔ You’re entering a marriage contract (prenup) or cohabitation agreement
  • ✔ You want protection from future disputes over finances, support, or parenting
  • ✔ You value peace of mind and legal clarity without courtroom battles


Get Answers in Usually 24 Hours

Flat-Fee Domestic Contract Registration

  • ✔ No retainers. No hourly surprises.
  • ✔ Transparent pricing that fits your budget.
  • ✔ Filing, paperwork, and court process handled completely for you.
  • ✔ Expert guidance from licensed paralegals.


Protect your agreement the right way — without breaking the bank.


Paralegal shaking hands with client after providing clear answers about registering domestic contracts in Ontario

Our 4-Step Process — From Draft to Registered Contract

01

Step 1: Free Consultation

Review your signed agreement and legal options.

02

Step 2: Filing Plan

Prepare a court-compliant registration strategy.

03

Step 3: Court Submission

We file with the court, no appearance required.

04

Step 4: Confirmation

You receive proof of registration — enforceable protection secured.

Professional legal consultation with clients in a modern office setting.

Don’t Wait —

Register Today for Legal Strength

Every day you wait to register:



  • Your contract lacks the enforceability of a court order
  • You risk disputes or confusion about property, parenting, or finances
  • You lose the option of FRO enforcement for support obligations


Legal certainty starts with registration.


Ready to Tailor Your Domestic Contract?

Protect your relationship (or separation) with legally sound, personalized agreements—flat-fee, licensed, and supported by expert FLSP paralegals.


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We’ll clarify your best path — no obligation, just clarity.

Frequently Asked Questions —

Domestic Contracts in Ontario

General Questions

  • 1. Can domestic contracts decide child support or custody?

    No. Only separation agreements can include child-related terms.

  • 2. Do they need to be in writing and witnessed?

    Yes — signature, witness, and clarity are required for them to be valid.

  • 3. Can FRO enforce a domestic contract?

    Only if it’s registered through court first; otherwise, FRO cannot initiate enforcement.

Enforceability & Modifications

  • 4. Can the agreement be changed?

    Yes, but only in writing, signed, and witnessed — amendment agreements must follow the same formalities.

  • 5. What makes a contract enforceable in court?

    Proper negotiation, transparency, legal advice, and absence of duress — as per the Miglin ruling.

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