When parents separate or divorce, one of the most emotionally charged issues they face is child custody. At MJ Law Services, we work with families across Brampton, Mississauga, and the Greater Toronto Area to help them navigate custody decisions with clarity, compassion, and a strong legal foundation.

If you’ve searched for:

• Family lawyers in Brampton
• How is child custody decided in Ontario?
• Legal custody vs. physical custody Brampton
• Best child custody lawyer near me
• Child access and parenting plans Ontario

This blog will walk you through the process and what to expect in Brampton family courts.

—

What Does “Custody” Mean in Ontario?

In Ontario, the term “custody” is being replaced with more neutral language under the Divorce Act and Children’s Law Reform Act. Instead of “custody” and “access,” the law now refers to:

• Decision-making responsibility, who has the authority to make important decisions about the child’s health, education, religion, and welfare
• Parenting time, the schedule that determines when the child is in the care of each parent

However, the term “custody” is still commonly used in public discussions and in court documents.

—

The Golden Rule: Best Interests of the Child

The court’s primary consideration in any child custody case is the best interests of the child. This includes:

✅ The child’s physical, emotional, and psychological well-being
✅ The child’s relationship with each parent
✅ The parents’ willingness to cooperate and support the child’s relationship with the other parent
✅ The child’s routine and need for stability
✅ Any history of family violence, abuse, or neglect
✅ The child’s views and preferences (especially for older children)

Family courts in Brampton do not favour one parent over the other based on gender or income. The goal is to ensure the child thrives.

—

Types of Custody Arrangements

In Brampton and throughout Ontario, there are several possible arrangements:

1.  Sole Decision-Making Responsibility
    One parent makes all major decisions about the child. The other may have parenting time.

2.  Joint Decision-Making Responsibility
    Both parents share decision-making authority, often with a detailed parenting plan.

3.  Shared Parenting Time
    The child spends close to equal time with both parents (often 40% or more with each).

4.  Split Parenting (in rare cases)
    Different children live primarily with different parents.

Every family’s arrangement is unique. At MJ Law, we help customize parenting plans that reflect your child’s best interests and your family’s needs.

—

Do You Always Have to Go to Court?

No, and most parents don’t.

Many custody and parenting time agreements are negotiated outside of court through:

• Mediation
• Collaborative family law
• Separation agreements

However, if parents can’t agree, then the matter may be decided by a judge at the Brampton family courthouse.

Our family lawyers are experienced in both collaborative negotiations and litigation — and we’ll always aim for a resolution that protects your child and your rights.

—

What If There’s Family Violence or Safety Concerns?

The court takes allegations of family violence extremely seriously. This includes physical, emotional, sexual, or financial abuse — even if it wasn’t directed at the child.

In such cases, the court may:

• Order supervised parenting time
• Limit communication between parents
• Prioritize the safety of the child and the non-abusive parent

If you’re in this situation, speak to a family lawyer immediately. We’ll act quickly to protect you and your child.

—

How MJ Law Can Help

Whether you’re creating your first parenting plan or revising an existing agreement, MJ Law Services offers:

✅ Clear legal advice based on Ontario’s latest family law reforms
✅ Representation in Brampton family court when needed
✅ Customized parenting plans
✅ Support for unmarried, common-law, and divorced parents
✅ Compassionate guidance with a focus on long-term solutions

We help parents understand their rights and responsibilities — and advocate for their children’s well-being at every stage.

—

Book a Free Consultation with a Brampton Family Lawyer

Are you navigating child custody or parenting time issues in Brampton? Let MJ Law Services help you protect your relationship with your child and find a path forward.

Located in Brampton, serving Mississauga, Etobicoke & the GTA
Learn more: https://www.mjlaws.ca
Call us now: +1-647-660-9666

MJ Law – Enabling Family Transitions. Protecting What Matters Most.