Conflict is part of everyday life, and civil litigation in Ontario can span a wide variety of relationships.  These disputes can be between business partners, family members, neighbours, employers, contractors, or property owners. Each disagreement or dispute can have its own resolution and can come in a multitude of ways. Some disagreements can be resolved with a conversation or a compromise, while others can be  more serious and can eventually require legal intervention.

Litigation in 2026 looks different than it did just a few years ago. More disputes are moving further into the legal process instead of settling early, driven by court delays, economic pressure, and growing regulatory risk. Understanding what litigation involves and why more matters are escalating, can help businesses and individuals make informed decisions long before a courtroom is involved.