Short answer – Generally speaking, no. One parent cannot unilaterally block the other’s parenting time. Family law focuses on the child’s meaningful relationship with both parents, not on either parent’s wishes.
The Legal Framework
- Equal Starting Point – Until a Court Order or agreement directs otherwise, a child’s parents are equally entitled to decision-making with respect to the child, including decisions about each parent’s interaction with the child. – Section 20(2) of the Children’s Law Reform Act
- If Parents Separate – If the parents of a child separate and the child lives with one of them with the consent of the other, the right of the other to exercise decision-making responsibility with respect to the child is suspended, but not the other’s entitlement to parenting time, unless or until a separation agreement or order provides otherwise – Section 20(4) of the Children’s Law Reform Act
- Parenting Time – Parenting time includes the right to visit with and be visited by the child and includes the same right as a parent to make inquiries and to be given information about the child’s well-being, including in relation to the child’s health and education – Section 20(5) of the Children’s Law Reform Act.
- Best-interests test: Section 24 of the Children’s Law Reform Act and section16 of the Divorce Act lists the factors a court must consider in making parenting orders. A consultation with a Family Law lawyer will allow you to understand how to advance the parenting plan that best serves you and your child.
- Parenting orders & agreements: Once an order or agreement sets out parenting time, both parents must follow it.
- Parental alienation: Courts view unjustified denial of contact as harmful; repeated interference can lead to remedies ranging from make-up time to a change in the primary residence of the child from the residence of the interfering parent to that of the denied parent.
When Contact Can be Limited
The law allows temporary restrictions only when necessary to protect the child, for example:
- Documented family violence or serious risk of harm.
- Substance abuse that endangers the child.
- A parent’s repeated failure to return the child.
These are just a few examples of the circumstance that might prompt a restriction to parenting time. You should consult with a Family Law lawyer to obtain a complete evaluation of the circumstances that impact your child.
Even then, courts prefer supervised visits or safety conditions over a total ban. The concerned parent must move quickly for an interim order. Taking actions on your own to limit or deny parenting time to another parent, without Court oversight and a Court order, is harmful and may backfire. Again, risks and considerations should be evaluated with your Family Law lawyer.
Common myths vs. reality
| Myth | Reality |
| “He isn’t paying support, so I can refuse visits.” | False. Support and parenting time are legally separate. |
| “The kids say they don’t want to go.” | Children’s views and preferences matter, especially as they age, but a parent can’t simply cancel visits. Get professional help from a Family Law lawyer and, if needed, a court-ordered Voice of the Child Report. |
| “I don’t like his new partner.” | Judges only intervene if the new environment poses actual risk. Personal dislike is not enough. Consult with a Family Law lawyer as to whether your circumstance would justify action. |
What a Parent Can Do if Access is Blocked
- Keep record of conversations regarding parenting time and parenting issues, especially the requests and the denials. [Note – at law, you cannot make an audio or video recording of another without their consent.]
- Propose alternative dispute resolution such as mediation or arbitration.
- Ask a family law lawyer to bring an application or a motion in court to achieve the best parenting time plan for your child.
Conclusion
In Ontario, only a judge can limit or end a parent’s time with a child. It must be remembered that best interests of the child is paramount, not adult grievances. If you believe contact is unsafe—or if your parenting time is being wrongfully denied—get prompt advice from a family law lawyer to protect both your rights and your child’s well-being.
Adi Choudhary, a Family Law Lawyer at Bair Family Law, brings empathy, insight, and steady guidance to his work. With a calm and client-focused approach, Adi supports individuals and families navigating separation, parenting disputes, and financial conflicts with clarity and compassion.
The information contained in this blog is provided solely for general interest; may not reflect current legal developments and should not be relied upon or construed as legal advice. Online readers should not act upon any information in this blog without first seeking professional advice. The sending or receipt of this information does not create a solicitor-client relationship between the reader and the content creator. For specific, comprehensive and up-to-date information, or for help with a particular factual situation, you should seek the advice of a family law lawyer.