Ontario Form 14 — How to Bring an Urgent Motion in Family Court
Survivors navigating family court in Ontario may encounter Form 14 when needing to bring an urgent motion. This form helps request quick court action on important family matters without waiting for a scheduled hearing.
What this is and why it matters
Form 14 is used in Ontario family court to ask the judge to consider an urgent matter immediately or as soon as possible. This can include issues like custody, access, or protection concerns that require timely intervention. Using this form allows the court to prioritize your request and address critical situations without the delays typical of regular court scheduling.
Understanding how and when to use Form 14 can be an important step in safeguarding your and your family’s wellbeing during legal proceedings.
Plain-language step-by-step
- Determine urgency: Consider if your situation truly requires immediate court attention. Urgent motions are for matters that cannot wait for the usual court timeline.
- Obtain Form 14: You can find this form through Ontario family court websites or court offices. The form is called "Notice of Motion (Urgent)."
- Complete the form: Fill out details about your case, the urgent issue, and what you are asking the court to do. Be clear and concise.
- Prepare supporting documents: Attach any evidence or affidavits that explain why the matter is urgent and support your request.
- File the form: Submit the completed Form 14 and supporting documents to the family court office handling your case. This may be done in person or electronically, depending on your local court’s procedures.
- Serve the other party: Provide a copy of the motion and all documents to the other party involved, following court rules for service.
- Attend the motion hearing: The court will schedule a hearing date quickly to review your urgent motion. Be prepared to explain your request and answer questions.
What evidence or documents may help
Supporting your urgent motion with clear evidence can improve the court’s understanding. Helpful documents may include:
- Affidavits describing the urgent situation in your own words.
- Communication records (texts, emails) relevant to the issue.
- Medical or professional reports if safety or health concerns are involved.
- Any existing court orders or agreements related to your case.
- Police reports or other official documents if applicable.
Ensure all documents are properly organized and submitted according to court rules.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Filing without genuine urgency: Courts expect urgent motions only for truly time-sensitive matters.
- Incomplete or unclear forms: Carefully fill out all required sections to avoid delays.
- Failing to serve the other party properly: Service rules must be followed to protect everyone’s right to respond.
- Not attaching supporting evidence: A motion without proof may be dismissed or delayed.
- Missing local court procedures: Procedures can vary; check your local family court’s guidelines.
What happens next
After filing your Form 14 urgent motion, the court sets a hearing date, often sooner than regular hearings. At the hearing, a judge reviews your request and evidence, listens to all parties, and then decides how to proceed. The judge may grant the urgent order, deny it, or set further steps.
It’s important to prepare calmly and understand the judge’s decision may include conditions or follow-up hearings.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I file Form 14 without a lawyer?
- Yes. While legal advice can be helpful, Form 14 is designed for individuals to file on their own. Be sure to follow instructions carefully.
- How quickly will the court respond to an urgent motion?
- Urgent motions are scheduled faster than regular motions, but exact times vary by court and caseload.
- What if the other party doesn’t agree with my urgent motion?
- They will have the chance to respond at the hearing. The judge will consider both sides before making a decision.
- Can I withdraw an urgent motion if the situation changes?
- Yes. You can notify the court if you no longer need the urgent motion before the hearing.
- Is there a fee to file Form 14?
- Filing fees may apply depending on your case and court. Check with your local family court for details.
- What if I need help understanding the form or process?
- Community legal clinics, family court help centres, or support organizations in Ontario may provide guidance.
If you want local help, you can privately browse lawyers, therapists, shelters, and hotlines near you at DV.Support.
Filing an urgent motion using Form 14 can feel overwhelming, but understanding the steps and preparing carefully can help you present your situation clearly. Remember to prioritize your safety and well-being throughout this process.