If your ex commits a crime against someone other than you or your children, that crime may not constitute ''family violence'' under the proivincial ''Family Law Act'' or the federal ''Divorce Act'', but it could still impact your family law dispute. Your ex's criminal conviction, for example, could have an impact on orders about parental responsibilities, parenting time, and contact with children.

The criminal court process starts with a report being made to police. A report can be made by a victim of a crime, or a witness to a crime. The police will assess the report and may open a police file and investigate. Investigations typically involve interviewing the complainant, interviewing witnesses, and examining the crime scene.