Edmonton Family Law Changes - January 2026

As of January 2, 2026, Alberta has introduced a new court system for individuals going through divorce and separation. The new system is called the Family Focused Protocol.

Why is Alberta changing the family court process?

The traditional process involved delays and multiple chambers applications. The Family Focused Protocol is designed to: protect children from conflict, encourage resolution through mediation and settlement, provide a structured process to move cases in a timely manner and reduce the number of court appearances.

Four mandatory steps before you meet with a judge

Complete the Parenting After Separation course (https://pas.albertacourts.ab.ca/)
Participate in a mediation or settlement meeting
Exchange financial disclosure
Meet with a Court Clerk Counsellor if you are self-represented

How to initiate a Family Law matter in Edmonton under the new process

Start and serve your family law action
Complete the applicable mandatory steps
File and serve the Mandatory Intake & Triage (MIT) package
Submit the package to the Case Management Officer (CMO)

The Mandatory Intake Conference (MIT)

Starting January 2, 2026, there will be no Docket Court. The Mandatory Intake Conference (MIT) replaces the former Docket Court process. The MIT will take place in a private setting, this is your meeting with a judge. The judge will identify or narrow the legal issues, provide temporary procedural directions and provide a roadmap for resolution.

What happens after the Mandatory Intake Conference (MIT)

Depending on the matter and issues, you may proceed to a case conference, a meeting with Resolution Counsel, settlement conference with a judge, or trial or streamlined trial.

Are there exceptions for urgent matters under the new process?

Yes. For urgent matters, the process remains the same, and you do not need to go through the new Family Focused Protocol.

Are there new laws for parenting, child support, spousal support or divorce?

No. The laws remain the same. There have been no changes to the Divorce Act since January 1, 2020.

How to prepare for the new Edmonton family court process

Complete the Parenting After Separation course
Gather your financial disclosure
Participate in a mediation or settlement meeting
Meet with a Court Clerk Counsellor if you are self-represented

Devgun Law has attended the full-day training provided by the Court of King’s Bench and is ready to assist you.

Book your consultation today with Ajay Devgun or Jaskirt Sidhu.

Link for Court of King’s Bench: https://albertacourts.ca/kb/resources/announcements/notice-to-the-profession---public---new-processes-in-family-law---family-focused-protocol.

Ajay Devgun – Edmonton Family Lawyer