Getting a Restraining Order in Ontario: A Step-by-Step Guide for Survivors
Survivors of domestic violence or harassment in Ontario can apply for a restraining order through family court. This step-by-step guide explains who qualifies, how to file Form 9C, and what to expect in court.

🛡️ Getting a Restraining Order in Ontario: Key Points for Survivors
• What Is a Restraining Order?
- Court order preventing someone you were in a relationship with from contacting or coming near you
- Available only if you were married, common‑law, or share a child with the respondent
- Can protect you and your children
- Breach is a criminal offence
• Who Can Apply?
- You and/or your children if you have a familial or intimate relationship
- No need for police charges; fear for safety suffices
- Applies in domestic violence, separation, or custody disputes
• Forms You Need
- Form 9C – Application for Non-Family Court Order
- Form 35.1 – Affidavit for Parenting (if children involved)
- Form 14 – Fee Waiver Request (if eligible)
- Form 6B – Affidavit of Service (after serving respondent)
• Filling Out Your Affidavit
- Describe specific incidents: dates, locations, actions
- Explain why you and/or your children are at risk
- Attach supporting evidence: texts, photos, police or medical reports
• Filing and Service
- File forms online via the Ontario Family Law Portal or in person at the courthouse
- Request an urgent hearing or next available date
- Serve the respondent—use a process server, police, or trusted adult
- File Form 6B (Affidavit of Service) with the court
• Court Hearing
- Bring all originals, copies, and witnesses
- Explain urgency and necessity to the judge
- Judge may issue a temporary order (short-term) or final order (long-term)
• Order Components
- No contact: calls, texts, emails, social media, third parties
- Exclusion zones: home, workplace, school
- No weapons possession
- Child custody and access terms, if applicable
• Breach of Order
- Call police immediately for any violation
- Save evidence: screenshots, messages, witness statements
- Consider filing an Affidavit of Contempt for civil enforcement
• Varying or Extending the Order
- Use Form 8B (Motion to Vary Order) in family court
- Consult Crown Attorney or duty counsel for criminal bail conditions
• Key Takeaways
- Restraining orders are civil protections for survivors and children
- No criminal charges needed to apply
- Court enforces no-contact and safety measures
- Legal aid and duty counsel can assist with forms and hearings
• Ontario Resources
- Legal Aid Ontario: 1-800-668-8258
- Assaulted Women’s Helpline: 1-866-863-0511
- Luke’s Place: Family law support for survivors
- Barbra Schlifer Clinic: Free legal & counselling services
- Ontario Court Forms: ontariocourtforms.on.ca
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