Can you appeal an order for custody, access, guardianship or child/spousal support?

Note: Mouse over any of the terms in green type to see a definition.

You can appeal an interim Supreme Court order for child custody, access, or support only if there has been a significant error of law. You cannot appeal an interim Provincial (Family) Court order, although in rare cases, a judicial review is possible.

You would appeal a final order from the Supreme Court in the Court of Appeal. You would appeal a final order from Provincial Court in the Supreme Court.

There are important time limits for appeals, from as little as 14 days for some interim orders to up to 30 days for others. You must get legal advice and file your appeal before the time limit expires. Do not wait until the last minute. There are strict legal rules about how the days are counted for these time limits. Get legal help as soon as possible. See Who can help? for more information about how to find legal help.

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Can refer to where and with whom a child lives, or where a child lives and the rights and responsibilities of a parent regarding the child in his or her care.
A document that records the decision of a judge/master and is entered at the court registry after the judge/master makes his or her decision.
Generally means the time children spend with the parent they do not usually live with. However, access is not limited to the parent who does not have custody — any person can apply for access to a child (including grandparents, aunts and uncles, and other relatives).
Money paid by one party to the other party as financial support. Support can be paid for a former spouse or for any or all children.