The Family Law Court Process: Step 3 - The Reply

The Family Law Court Process: Step 3 - The Reply

A possible third step in the family law or divorce court process is the Reply. I say it's possible because a Reply is made only when the responding person makes an Answer that raises new claims. In that case, the applicant can 'reply' to only the new claims or issues.

Similar to the application and the answer, the Reply will set out the applicant's response to the new issue(s) raised by the respondent. But if the responding person does not raise new issues in his or her Answer, the applicant does not make a Reply.

A Reply can be lengthy and your family law lawyer will write the response with your input. The costs associated with making a Reply are approximately the same as the other main documents -- estimated $3,500 to $5,000 plus tax -- depending on the length of the response and the complexity of gathering information needed to respond to the new claims.

St. Thomas family law or divorce lawyer helping clients with the process including protecting their pets

Photo credit: Olya Harytovich

A Reply can be made only by the applicant. So if you are considering starting a court proceeding, it is helpful to consult a family law lawyer well in advance. This will help you to understand the probable costs ahead of time and form expectations accordingly. The closer your expectations are attuned to reality, the better the experience will be for you.

Find a Family Law Lawyer, or Separation Lawyer or Divorce Lawyer, who serves clients in London and St. Thomas

St. Thomas (Elgin County) Courthouse

Location: St Thomas, ON, Canada

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