3. Learn about trials

Trials are usually open to the public. This means there may be other people in the courtroom when your trial is going on.

Your trial begins with a person in the courtroom, called a clerk, calling the court to order. This means the judge is ready to hear your case.

There are several steps in a family court trial. For example,

• each party makes an opening statement
• each party presents their evidence by using witnesses and documents
• each party makes a closing statement
• the judge makes a decision

You need to prepare the questions you want to ask your witnesses and your partner’s witnesses. If you plan to give evidence as a witness, you should prepare what you will testify, and get ready to be cross-examined by your partner.

Special Arrangements

If you or any of your witnesses need an interpreter or any special arrangement because of a disability, you can ask for this at any stage in the court process.

You can speak with any staff member at court about what you need or you can contact the Accessibility Coordinator at the court where your case, motion, or trial is being held. More information on accessibility at Ontario’s courts is available on the Ministry of the Attorney General’s website.