On January 2, 2026, the Court of King's Bench of Alberta implemented the new Family Focused Protocol (FFP). As part of this updated system, certain family law matters must proceed through what is referred to as a "desk application" process.
The desk application process allows you to apply for specific court relief in a court order by submitting documents to the courthouse for a Justice to review this application. As part of this desk application, you do not appear before a Justice of the Court, and in turn there is no opportunity to provide oral submissions in support of your desk application.
As part of the Alberta Court of King’s Bench desk application process, this package will be reviewed first by a court clerk to confirm if the application is in compliance with all requirements. If the desk application process fails to meet the requirements, the desk application will be rejected before it is reviewed by a Justice. If the desk application meets all requirements, it will then be forwarded to the desk applications review Justice.
A Justice will review your written materials, and the Court will advise if:
- Your order is granted;
- Whether the Justice requires additional information; or
- Whether your request has been refused.
Because there is no hearing, your written materials must be complete, accurate, and properly filed.
It should also be noted that law firms have access to completing these desk applications by way of a digital filing service, which helps greatly support the processing of these applications efficiently and in a timely manner. Here at Family Central Law, we are experienced in preparing desk applications and ensuring they comply with the court’s requirements, helping you avoid unnecessary delay.
There are certain matters where desk application should proceed through. These matters consist of, but are not limited to the following:
- Consent Orders (where both parties agree to the terms of the Order);
- Joint Divorces;
- Requests to waive or defer the four mandatory pre-court requirements under the Family Justice Strategy;
- Requests to meet with Resolution Counsel;
- Orders relating to Court rules and procedure, such as seeking permission to file a document after a deadline; and
- Requests for financial disclosure, including orders requiring the other party to provide their financial information.
When we assist in preparing your desk application, we ensure:
- The correct forms are completed;
- Any required affidavit (if applicable) is complete with relevant information;
- The affidavit (if applicable) is properly sworn or affirmed;
- All supporting documentation is attached; and
- The materials are filed in accordance with the applicable Alberta Rules of Court.
In preparation of your documents, accuracy is crucial because unlike an in-person hearing, you do not have the opportunity to clarify your position. As such, your written materials must clearly set out:
- The relief you are requesting;
- The legal basis for your request; and
- The supporting evidence required to justify the proposed Order.
The strict compliance with Court procedures is required. At Family Central Law, we assist by:
- Determining whether your matter must proceed by Desk Application;
- Preparing and reviewing your documents for accuracy and completeness;
- Drafting supporting affidavits;
- Ensuring proper filing; and
- Minimizing the risk of rejection or delay.
