Child Protection and Domestic Violence in Ontario: What Parents Need to Know

In Ontario, exposure to domestic violence can trigger child protection involvement. Learn what Children’s Aid Societies (CAS) look for, your rights as a parent, and how to get help.

• Exposure Counts as Harm

• Under the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA), children need not be physically hurt to be at risk.
• Sight, sound or emotional impact of domestic violence can trigger CAS involvement.

• When CAS Must Investigate

• Child is exposed to violence in the home
• Evidence of fear, trauma, or emotional harm in the child
• Parent unable to protect the child due to abuse
• Ongoing or escalating risk of violence

• CAS Intervention Process

1. Report or Referral: Anyone (police, school, neighbour, survivor) can trigger a report.
2. Investigation: CAS interviews non‑offending parent and child, assesses safety and risk.
3. Safety Planning: CAS may ask you to sign safety agreements, remove the abuser, or attend counselling.

• Your Rights as a Parent

• Right to legal representation at every step
• Right to refuse signing any CAS agreement without lawyer’s advice
• Right to request a court review by a family court judge
• CAS’s goal is child safety, not to blame the non‑offending parent

• Possible CAS Actions

• Close the file: No further action if no risk found
• Offer voluntary services: Counselling, parenting programs, safety planning
• Supervise visits or custody: Temporary limits on the other parent’s access
• Seek court orders: Mandated protection plans or, in extreme cases, child removal

• Tips for Survivors with Children

• Call police if in immediate danger—this also documents risk for CAS
• Document incidents: Keep records (texts, photos, police reports) of abuse
• Seek legal advice before signing any CAS paperwork
• Request referrals to parenting supports, housing, or counselling
• Cooperate, but question: Know your rights and ask for clear explanations

• Key Takeaways

• CAS steps in when children are exposed to violence, not just physically harmed
• Non‑offending parent is not automatically at fault; CAS focuses on protection
• Legal counsel is crucial for reviewing safety plans and court proceedings
• CAS can provide supportive services or enforce court‑ordered protection

• Where to Get Help

• Children’s Aid Society: Locate your local branch via OACAS directory
• Legal Aid Ontario: 1‑800‑668‑8258 for certificate coverage
• Family Law Information Centres (FLIC): Free guidance in Ontario courthouses
• Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1‑866‑863‑0511 for crisis support
• Office of the Children’s Lawyer: Court‑appointed advocate in complex cases