New Brunswick’s Family Forward Court Model: What Families Need to Know

New Brunswick is introducing a major shift in how family law matters are handled in the courts. The new Family Forward model is designed to reduce delays, improve consistency, and make the process less adversarial for families. At the heart of this reform is a simple but impactful idea: one judge – one file.

What “One Judge – One File” Means

Under the new model, once a family law matter enters the court system, a single judge will be assigned to manage the file from start to finish. This includes:

• Reviewing the initial filing
• Conducting triage hearings
• Managing all pre-trial steps
• Deciding motions and conferences
• Guiding the case toward resolution or trial

With one judge overseeing the entire process, families can expect a more consistent and informed approach. The judge becomes familiar with the file, the issues, and the family’s circumstances—reducing repetition and uncertainty.

Triage Hearings: Early Assessment and Clear Direction

In Fredericton, new filings will be assigned to a judge right away. That judge will schedule a triage hearing to assess the family’s needs and outline next steps.

In Moncton and Saint John, matters that are being transferred from adjudicators will also be assigned to a Family Division judge. That judge will conduct the initial triage hearing and take over ongoing management of the file. This ensures that every matter—new or transferred—starts with a clear plan and consistent oversight.

Importantly, no motions or hearings (except urgent matters) will be scheduled without direction from the assigned judge. This keeps the process organized and prevents files from stalling.

Where and When the New Model Applies

• Fredericton: Applies to all new matters filed on or after July 1, 2026.
• Moncton & Saint John: Applies to all existing matters requiring a judicial appearance on or after June 1, 2026.

For these cases, a triage judge will be assigned before anything else is scheduled, and that judge will take over ongoing management of the file.

Why the Change Is Needed

For years, family law matters in New Brunswick have faced significant delays. Many families experienced what is often described as the “black hole”—a long wait for court dates and little follow-up in the meantime. This left families uncertain about the future and contributed to ongoing conflict.

The new model aims to prevent files from stalling. With a designated judge continuously monitoring and directing progress, families should see more timely communication, clearer timelines, and quicker movement toward resolution.

More Time for What Matters

To support the new approach, the Court will be restructuring its schedules. More time will be set aside for:

• Case management
• Settlement conferences
• Binding judicial resolution conferences

These tools support resolution‑focused processes rather than adversarial ones. Necessary motions and applications will still be heard, but within a more organized framework.

Part of a Broader Modernization

The Family Forward model is part of larger efforts to modernize New Brunswick’s family justice system. This includes the digitization of court services and a shift toward approaches that reduce conflict and prioritize the well-being of children and families.

The goal is to make family law more accessible, more predictable, and more responsive to the real needs of families navigating difficult transitions.

What Families Can Expect

• More consistency: One judge will know your file and follow it throughout.
• Quicker movement: Files won’t sit idle waiting for a hearing months away.
• Focused resolution: Judges will work with families to find solutions early.
• Less adversarial process: Encouraging collaboration over conflict.

The Family Forward model represents an important step toward a more efficient, compassionate, and modern family justice system in New Brunswick.