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What to Do If You Have an Urgent Family Law Matter Over the Holidays

We hope the holidays are a time for connection, rest, and family. But we know that for many people navigating separation, custody arrangements, or high-conflict situations, December can bring much more stress than celebration.

If you’re facing an urgent family law matter over the holiday season, here’s what you actually need to know and what you can do to protect yourself, your kids, and your sanity.

1. Is it legally urgent or emotionally urgent?

Unfortunately, not everything that feels urgent actually qualifies as urgent in the eyes of the law. The courts have limited holiday availability, so only a narrow set of issues will be considered “emergent.”

Some situations that might qualify:

  • A parent fails to return a child during holiday parenting time
  • There’s a genuine safety concern (e.g., risk of abduction, harm, or coercive control)
  • A child is being withheld in breach of a court order
  • Someone is attempting to relocate with a child without consent

If you’re unsure, you can always talk to a lawyer. Many firms (including ours) keep limited availability for emergency consults during this time.

2. Document Everything

Before reacting, start documenting:

  • When and where communication broke down
  • Any texts, emails, or messages exchanged
  • What the current court order or agreement says (if there is one)
  • Any history of similar behaviour (especially around the holidays)

This will help you show a clear, calm record of what’s happened and support any legal action if needed.

3. Know Who to Call

If it’s a true emergency:

  • You can contact the police if your child is in immediate danger or is unlawfully withheld.
  • You may be able to apply for an emergency court hearing, depending on your province’s holiday court schedule.
  • If you’re in Saskatchewan, you can contact the Court in your jurisdiction.

If it’s not urgent enough for court, a lawyer can still help you:

  • Draft a strongly worded letter to your co-parent
  • Prepare for mediation or legal action in the new year
  • Clarify your legal rights (and limits)
Other resources:
  • Saskatoon Crisis and Intervention Services
    • 24/7 mental health and addictions crisis support
    • Call 306-933-6200

4. Stay Grounded: What Helps vs. What Escalates

As hard as it is, avoid knee-jerk reactions. Messaging your ex repeatedly, threatening legal action without advice, or involving your child in the conflict can make things worse both legally and emotionally.

Instead:

  • Take a breath and consult legal support – avoid reacting and prioritize documenting everything you can, take some time to think about desired outcomes and realistic solutions for your family
  • Focus on stability for your children – think about how you want your children to remember the holidays when they look back on their childhood
  • Remember that temporary disruptions, while frustrating, are usually fixable in the new year – there are many things you can get started on before consulting a lawyer to help you feel like you’re making progress

5. Plan Ahead for the New Year

If this is a recurring issue (holidays, missed pickups, last-minute changes) it may be worthwhile to revisit your parenting plan or court order.

At Evolve Family Law, we can help you:

  • Update or enforce court orders
  • Revisit parenting schedules for future holidays
  • Set clearer communication boundaries with your co-parent
Complete this form to get started with us in the New Year.

Final Thoughts

Family issues don’t pause for the holidays. Just remember that you’re not alone, and you don’t have to solve everything overnight. Whether it’s urgent now or you’re building toward change in the new year, support is available.

If you’re unsure where to start, reach out to our team. We’ll let you know whether your matter needs urgent action or if you’re better off waiting and planning ahead with legal clarity and a calmer head.

Need help navigating a holiday family issue?

📧 Send us an email — we’ll help you figure out your next step.

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What to Do If You Have an Urgent Family Law Matter Over the Holidays

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