As of May 2026, a Dispute Resolution Officer (DRO) in Ontario is a senior family lawyer appointed to help settle cases before they reach a judge. If you file a Motion to Change spousal support or parenting time in certain regions, attending a DRO Conference is usually a mandatory first step.
The family court system in Ontario is often overloaded, leading to long wait times and incredibly high legal fees. 📈 To alleviate this pressure, the Superior Court of Justice relies heavily on alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. One of the most effective tools in the province’s arsenal is the Dispute Resolution Officer (DRO) program. Instead of walking straight into a courtroom to argue in front of a judge, many separating couples are required to first sit down with an experienced, neutral professional to try and hash out an agreement.
Understanding what a DRO can and cannot do is essential for managing your expectations. A DRO is not a judge. They cannot force you to sign a settlement, nor can they make binding legal orders regarding your property or children. However, they carry immense influence. They will listen to both sides, evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and give you a blunt assessment of what a judge is likely to do if you refuse to settle. This guide explains how the DRO program works and how to prepare for your conference.
Step-by-Step Process for a DRO Conference in Ontario
The DRO program is not available everywhere. It is primarily mandated in specific, high-volume courthouses like Toronto, Brampton, Milton, Newmarket, Hamilton, and Barrie. Most applicants bringing a Motion to Change an existing final order will find themselves automatically scheduled for a DRO Conference.
Step 1: Filing the Motion to Change
The process usually begins when one party files a Form 15 Motion to Change. 📄 This is typically used when you want to alter existing spousal support, child support, or decision-making responsibility because your circumstances have changed (for example, a job loss or a child moving out). When the court clerk accepts your filing in a DRO-designated region, they will give you a date for your mandatory DRO Conference.
Step 2: Exchanging DRO Briefs
Before the conference, both parties must prepare and exchange a “DRO Brief.” This is a concise summary of your case. You must clearly state what changes you are asking for, the facts supporting your request, and any settlement offers you have made. You must also include an updated Form 13 or 13.1 Financial Statement if support is an issue. Serving these documents on time is critical.
Step 3: Attending the Conference
On the day of the conference, you, your former spouse, and your respective lawyers will meet with the DRO. 🤝 These meetings often take place in a boardroom at the courthouse or virtually via Zoom. The atmosphere is generally less formal than a courtroom. The DRO will read your briefs, ask probing questions, and try to find common ground between both sides.
Step 4: Receiving the DRO’s Opinion
If you cannot reach an immediate agreement, the DRO will provide an “evaluative opinion.” They will tell you frankly how a judge would likely rule based on current Ontario family law. Because DROs are senior lawyers with at least 10 years of family law experience, their opinions are highly respected. Hearing a neutral expert say “you will likely lose this argument” is often the reality check needed to spark a settlement.
Step 5: The Screening Report
At the end of the meeting, the DRO will fill out a Screening Report. 📝 If you reached an agreement, the DRO can help draft a consent order for a judge to sign later. If no agreement was reached, the DRO will outline what procedural steps must happen next (like more financial disclosure) and clear the case to proceed to a formal motion in front of a real judge.
How Much Does it Cost in Ontario?
The DRO service itself is a massive cost-saver because it often eliminates the need for a full trial.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| The DRO’s Time | $0 (The DRO is funded by the Ontario government) |
| Lawyer Fees (Drafting Briefs) | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
| Lawyer Fees (Attending Conference) | $500 – $1,500 (Depending on hourly rate and duration) |
| Cost if Settled at DRO | Fraction of the cost of a full trial |
How Long Does the Process Take?
Once you file your Motion to Change, it generally takes 1 to 3 months to get a date for your DRO Conference, depending on the backlog at your local Superior Court of Justice. The actual conference itself is usually scheduled for about 1 to 2 hours. If the matter is complex, the DRO might suggest scheduling a follow-up meeting, or they will send you directly to a judge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can the DRO force my ex to pay child support?
No. A Dispute Resolution Officer does not have the legal authority to make a binding court order. They can only strongly recommend what the support should be. If your ex refuses to agree, you must take the matter to a judge.
Do I have to go to a DRO Conference?
If you are filing a Motion to Change in a designated DRO courthouse (like Brampton or Toronto), attendance is mandatory unless a judge grants you a special exemption (usually only in cases of severe domestic urgency).
Can I bring my new partner into the DRO meeting?
Generally, no. The conference is strictly for the parties involved in the litigation and their lawyers. A DRO will usually ask new partners or support persons to wait outside to keep emotions manageable and preserve confidentiality.
Will the judge see what was discussed with the DRO?
Settlement discussions held during a DRO Conference are privileged and confidential. The judge will not be told about the specific settlement offers made during the meeting. They will only see the final Screening Report, which outlines procedural next steps.
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