The potential outcomes of a relocation dispute in Ontario, can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. However, generally, the outcomes can be categorized as follows:

  1. Agreement Between Parties: The parties may come to an agreement about the relocation. This could involve the non-relocating parent agreeing to the move, possibly with changes to the parenting plan to maintain their relationship with the child. This agreement should ideally be formalized in a written document or court order.
  2. Court Order Permitting Relocation: If the parties cannot agree and the matter goes to court, the court may decide to allow the relocation. The court will consider the best interests of the child, the impact of the relocation on the child, the amount of time spent with the child by each parent, any past order, arbitral award, or agreement regarding parenting including any restriction on the relocation, and the reasonableness of the proposal. The court is not allowed to consider whether the parent who intends to relocate would relocate without the child.
  3. Court Order Denying Relocation: Alternatively, the court may decide not to allow the relocation. This could be because the court finds that the move would not be in the best interests of the child, or for other reasons based on the specific circumstances of the case.
  4. Modification of Parenting Plan: Whether the court allows the relocation or not, it may also order a modification of the parenting plan. This could involve changes to the schedule of parenting time, decision-making responsibilities, or other aspects of the parenting plan.

Remember, the court’s primary concern in these cases is the best interests of the child. The court will always aim to make a decision that supports the child’s wellbeing and maintains their relationships with both parents as much as possible.

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