What is the difference between a case conference and a trial?

A case conference is an early, less formal meeting to identify issues, confirm disclosure, and explore settlement — no final decisions are usually made on the merits. A trial is the formal hearing where evidence is presented and a judge decides. Most cases resolve long before trial.

Do I need a lawyer for a case conference?

You can attend a case conference while self-represented. Many people get advice beforehand — including limited-scope (unbundled) help — to make sure their position and disclosure are in order. A Family Law Information Centre can also point you to free resources.

What should I bring to a case conference?

Generally: your conference brief or summary, any required financial disclosure, copies of existing orders or agreements, and an organized record of key dates and documents. Always follow any specific directions from your court.

What to track before a family court case conference in Ontario

In most Ontario family court cases, a case conference is the first time you sit down with the other party and a judge. It is not a trial and no one "wins" that day — but it sets the tone, narrows the issues, and is your first real chance to look organized and reasonable. Preparing well is mostly about knowing your case and bringing the right information.

What a case conference is for

A case conference is meant to move things forward without a fight. Typically it is used to:

Identify the issues you agree on and the ones you don't
Make sure both sides have exchanged financial disclosure
Explore whether some issues can settle
Set the next steps and any timetable

Knowing this helps you prepare the right way: come ready to be clear and practical about what you want and why.

Know your issues — and your position

List the issues in your case (parenting time, decision-making, support, property) and, for each, write your position in a sentence or two. What are you asking for, and what is the reason? Keep it factual and child-focused where parenting is involved.

Get your financial disclosure in order

If support or property is at issue, disclosure is usually required — often a sworn financial statement and supporting documents. Missing disclosure is one of the most common reasons a conference stalls. Check the official Family Law Rules and forms for what applies, and consider getting advice on completing them correctly.

A timeline of key dates

Bring a simple chronology: when you separated, important events, and any past agreements or orders. A clear timeline helps you answer questions on the spot and shows the judge you have a handle on the history.

Your evidence and documents, organized

You won't argue evidence in detail at a conference, but you should have your key documents and a tidy record of events ready. Organizing this in advance (see how to organize evidence) means you can find anything in seconds.

How SteadCase helps

SteadCase keeps the moving parts in one private place: Court Dates & Deadlines so nothing sneaks up on you, a Case Log for the history, and an Export Summary you can print or hand to a lawyer before the conference. You can even invite your lawyer or coach to view your case so they can guide you.

This is general educational information for Ontario, not legal advice. Court rules and your situation matter — consider speaking with a lawyer, paralegal, or your local Family Law Information Centre.

SteadCase provides organization tools and educational information only. It is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice. For advice about your situation, speak with a lawyer, paralegal, or your local Family Law Information Centre.