No-fault divorce became legal in Canada in 1986 through the revised Divorce Act

The introduction of no-fault divorce marked a significant change in Canadian family law. Under the revised Divorce Act of 1986, couples could legally end their marriage without proving wrongdoing by either spouse. This modernized approach requires only:

• A minimum one-year separation period
• Proof that the marriage has broken down
• At least one spouse being a Canadian resident for 12 months

This reform simplified the divorce process, reduced court battles, and aligned Canada’s divorce laws with contemporary social values. Prior to 1986, couples had to prove grounds like adultery or cruelty to obtain a divorce.