ALBERTA’S FAMILY COURT JUST GOT SMARTER: NAVIGATE THE 2026 FFP

All family matters in Alberta are moving to the FFP, are you ready?

What is the FFP? The Court of King’s Bench has introduced a new framework called the Family Focused Protocol (FFP), to take effect on January 2, 2026. This is to reduce any conflicts, delays and help families resolve legal issues earlier.

Under the FFP, there are three main streams for families wishing to access the Court to assist in resolving their family matters. Meaning that your matter must fall under one of the following:

1. Regular Family Process;

2. Desk Process; and

3. Urgent Process.

Before accessing the Court under this process, parties must complete four Mandatory Requirements, unless the case is urgent or a waiver/deferral is granted.

Mandatory Requirements

1. Parenting After Separation (PAS): Online course completed within the last two years.
   

2. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR): Must attempt or consider mediation or other ADR options.
   

3. Financial Disclosure: Full exchange of financial information between the parties.
   

4. Meeting with a Family Court Counsellor (FCC): Discussion of parenting plans, dispute-resolution, options, and next steps.

Regular Family Process: A Streamlined Step-By-Step Journey!

After completing or receiving a waiver for all mandatory requirements, the process begins with filing and serving a commencement document, followed by preparing and submitting a Mandatory Intake Triage (MIT) Package through Justice Digital. The Case Management Office reviews the package, ensuring mandatory steps, financial disclosure, and interim applications comply with the Rules and Practice Notes. Once approved, parties must schedule their MIT Conference within 30 days. If further resolution is needed, parties file a Joint Request for Settlement Conference and a Settlement Memorandum. Parties then either develop a Litigation Plan with Resolution Counsel, file a Consent Litigation Plan, or attend a Rule 4.10 Case Conference. If issues still remain, the matter proceeds to trial.

The Desk Process: This handle matters without any in-person court appearance. 

The Urgent Process: It is reserved for issues needing immediate action, such as risks of violence or harm, potential child removal, Emergency Protection Order reviews, or urgent parenting concerns. While Family Roster Justices hear matters in person to ensure clear communication, remote attendance may be permitted in exceptional circumstances.

How Can We Help?

Navigating the FFP can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Our team is here to guide you through every step, from meeting mandatory requirements to preparing your MIT Package and representing you at settlement conferences or trial.

Have questions about the new Family Focused Protocol? Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure you’re ready for January 2026.