The Alberta Court of King’s Bench has fundamentally changed how family law matters are handled by the Courts, launching the Family-Focused Protocol (FFP) on January 2, 2026. This mandatory update shifts the focus away from traditional, adversarial courtroom battles toward a family-centric and resolution-oriented approach. By requiring the parties to complete significant steps in the process before a judge is even involved, the FFP aims to reduce conflict, protect children from prolonged litigation, and streamline cases toward a final resolution within a clear 18-month timeline.
Key Mandatory Requirements
To access the court under the new FFP system, parties must first complete several steps, designed to encourage settlement:
- Filing of your Claim: You must now file your entire claim prior to accessing any relief from a Court.
- Parenting After Separation Course: The parties must complete the PAS course and provide a certificate of completion dated within the last two years for all cases involving children.
- Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): You must attempt mediation or another form of ADR within six months of your application.
- Full Financial Disclosure: Parties must exchange and file up-to-date, digital financial disclosures, unless your matter is considered urgent.
- Family Court Counsellor Meeting: This is a requirement for self-represented litigants to ensure they have the necessary resources and guidance.
The Three Pathways of the FFP
Every family law matter will now be categorized into one of three distinct streams:
Regular Family Process: The primary route for most cases, starting with a Mandatory Intake Triage (MIT) Conference where a dedicated judge assesses interim needs.
Desk Process: For non-urgent, uncontested matters, such as joint divorces or consent orders, that can be handled through paperwork without a hearing.
Urgent Process: Reserved for emergencies involving safety, risk of harm, or the immediate removal of a child from the jurisdiction.
We’re Here to Guide You
Navigating these new procedural hurdles can be overwhelming during an already difficult time. At BDL Family Law, we’re fully equipped to help you meet these new requirements, from coordinating your ADR to preparing your Court materials, so you can reach a resolution faster and with less stress.
We are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
