Are you facing harassment, stalking, or threats to your safety in Ontario? A restraining order might be the legal protection you need. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to get a restraining order in Ontario, including how to fill out the Application for Non-Family Court Order (Form 9C).

A restraining order is a court order that limits the contact one person can have with another. In Ontario, restraining orders are commonly issued under:

• Family Law Act – when the parties are or were in a family or intimate relationship.

• Non-Family Cases – such as a neighbor, coworker, or stranger. These use Form 9C.

You should consider applying if:

• Someone is threatening, stalking, or harassing you.

• You fear for your physical safety or psychological well-being.

• Police have been involved, but the behavior persists.

Restraining orders are especially important if you have evidence of repeated unwanted contact.

There are two main types:

• Family Court Restraining Order – for ex-partners or relatives.

• Non-Family Court Order – for acquaintances, coworkers, or others.

👉 If it's a non-family member, you’ll use Form 9C: Application for Non-Family Court Order.

Form 9C is the official application for a non-family restraining order. You can find it on the Ontario Court Forms website.

The form requires you to:

• Provide your details and the respondent’s details.

• Describe the behaviour or threat that has led to the application.

• Explain why the order is necessary.

• Indicate the specific restrictions you are asking the court to impose (e.g., no contact, distance limits, workplace restrictions).

Tip: Be detailed and include dates, times, and any supporting evidence (texts, emails, police reports).

Once Form 9C is complete:

• File it at the Ontario Court of Justice (not Superior Court).

• You may need to pay a filing fee, though fee waivers are available in certain situations.

• You will receive a court date.

The respondent must be formally served with the application documents. You cannot serve the papers yourself.

You must:

• Hire a process server or ask someone 18+ not involved in the case.

• Provide proof of service using an Affidavit of Service.

Bring:

• A copy of your application and any evidence.

• Witnesses (if any).

• Notes or timelines of incidents.

The judge will decide based on the balance of probabilities. If granted, the order will state how long it remains in effect.

If the respondent violates the order:

• Call the police immediately.

• Violating a restraining order is a criminal offence in Ontario.

Keep a copy of the order with you at all times.

• Use Form 9C for restraining orders against non-family members in Ontario.

• Provide detailed evidence and follow proper court procedures.

• A restraining order is a legal safeguard, not just a piece of paper—violations carry criminal penalties.

Consider contacting:

• Legal Aid Ontario (1-800-668-8258)

• A local legal clinic

• The Victim Support Line at 1-888-579-2888

You can also consult a lawyer who specializes in civil protection orders.

Conclusion

Getting a restraining order in Ontario can be a powerful step toward reclaiming your safety. By correctly completing Form 9C and following the legal process, you can protect yourself from further harm and take control of your situation.

If you’re unsure where to begin, don’t hesitate to get legal help—your safety matters.

A restraining order is typically issued in family court matters to set rules about contact. A peace bond is used in criminal court for non-family situations where someone fears another person will harm them, their family, or their property. Both are court orders with serious consequences for violations.

If the respondent breaks any of the conditions of the restraining order (e.g., they contact you or come to your home), you should call 911 immediately. Violating a restraining order is a criminal offence in Ontario, and the police can arrest the person. Always carry a copy of your restraining order with you.

While you can apply for a restraining order on your own, the process can be complex. It is strongly recommended to seek legal advice. You can contact Legal Aid Ontario, a local community legal clinic, or the Victim Support Line for assistance and referrals.

There is a court filing fee to start the application. If you hire a professional process server to serve the documents, there will be a fee for that service as well. However, if you have a low income, you can apply for a fee waiver from the court to have the filing fees cancelled.

Yes. In family court, you can ask for a restraining order that protects both you and your children from an abusive partner or ex-partner. The children's safety will be a primary consideration for the judge.

The duration of the restraining order is determined by the judge. It can be for a specific period (e.g., one year) or it can be indefinite. If the order has an expiry date, you will need to apply to the court again to have it extended if you still fear for your safety.