Working Toward Reunification With Your Child in Ontario
Reunification is the goal — returning your child home under conditions that CAS and, if applicable, the court, accept as safe. The reunification stage requires careful documentation, continued compliance, and a clear plan for the future.
Key deadline: If a reunification plan is part of a court order, there will be specific dates attached to each milestone. Missing a single milestone date can delay reunification significantly. Track all dates carefully.
What typically happens next
- CAS develops a formal reunification plan that outlines the conditions under which your child will return home.
- A series of graduated steps typically occur — extended home visits, trial overnight stays, and then a full return.
- CAS continues monitoring for a period after reunification, often through home visits and check-ins.
- The case can be formally closed once CAS is satisfied that the family is stable and safe.
- If the family is supervised under a court order, a court hearing is required to formally end supervision.
Step-by-step: what people in this situation often do
- 1
Confirm the written reunification plan
Ensure you have a written copy of the reunification plan, including every milestone, timeline, and condition. If anything is unclear, request clarification in writing before agreeing.
- 2
Complete each step in the reunification plan before moving to the next
Do not rush or skip steps. Each visit — unsupervised, overnight, extended — is a milestone that needs to go smoothly. Document each one.
- 3
Maintain all records through the entire reunification period
Even once your child is home, CAS may continue visiting. Keep your records, your home environment documentation, and your program completion records accessible.
- 4
Request case closure in writing when all conditions are met
Do not assume CAS will close the file automatically. When you believe all conditions are met, send a formal written request for case closure and ask for a written response.
- 5
Plan for post-reunification support
Identify community supports — a family doctor, school, community programs — that will remain in place after CAS is gone. Demonstrating a support network reduces CAS concern about future risk.
Documents you will likely need
- Written reunification plan with all milestones
- Records of each home visit and overnight stay
- Final letters of completion for all required programs
- Evidence of stable housing and income
- Children's school enrollment confirmation
- Medical care confirmations for all children
- Community support letters (if any)
- Court orders related to supervision or access (if applicable)
Frequently asked questions
How long does the reunification process typically take?
Can CAS reopen a case after my child comes home?
Does CAS have to agree to close my file?
What if CAS delays reunification without a good reason?
This guide is based on publicly available Ontario child protection procedures. It is not legal advice and does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Quorex is not affiliated with any child welfare agency or government body. If you are in immediate risk, contact legal aid or a duty counsel directly.
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