After you get a divorce order, how do you get a divorce certificate?

After you receive the Divorce Order in Ontario, the final step to legally completing your divorce process is obtaining the Divorce Certificate.

Here’s how you can obtain the Divorce Certificate after the Divorce Order has been granted:

1. Wait for the Divorce Order to Take Effect: The Divorce Order becomes final 31 days after the judge signs it, unless an appeal is filed within that time.
2. Application for Certificate of Divorce (Form 36B): After the Divorce Order is final, you need to fill out Form 36B, Certificate of Divorce. This is the actual form that, once processed and signed by the court, serves as the official record of the divorce being finalized. It is obtained after the Divorce Order takes effect (typically 31 days after the judge signs the Divorce Order, assuming no appeals are made). This form is submitted to the same court where your divorce was processed. This form provides the necessary details to formally record the divorce in the court’s records.
3. Submit and Pay Fees: When submitting Form 36B, you may need to pay a filing fee, depending on the court’s requirements. The fees can vary, so it’s important to verify the current fee with the specific court where you are filing.
4. Processing Time: After submitting Form 36B, the court will process your application. The time it takes to receive your Divorce Certificate can vary depending on the workload and efficiency of the court.
5. Receive the Divorce Certificate: Once processed, the Certificate of Divorce will be either mailed to you or you can pick it up from the court, depending on the court’s practice or your preference.