Family mediation in Ontario: how to prepare

How to prepare issues, documents, priorities, and safety information for a family-mediation process in Ontario.

What should you decide before the first session?

List the decisions that actually need to be made and distinguish urgent temporary arrangements from long-term terms. A clear agenda helps avoid using mediation only to repeat the history of the conflict.

Parenting schedules and decision-making questions
Child or spousal support information
Property, debts, housing, and household expenses
Interim deadlines, school dates, moves, or other time-sensitive decisions

What documents make mediation more useful?

Bring the same reliable information you would want before making a binding decision. Financial mediation is difficult when disclosure is incomplete, and parenting proposals should reflect the child’s actual routine and needs.

Tax returns, notices of assessment, income records, and a budget
Statements for property, pensions, accounts, mortgages, and debts
Existing agreements, court orders, and filed documents
A calendar showing children’s routines, holidays, transportation, and activities

What should you tell the mediator privately?

Ontario family mediators screen for family violence, safety, and power imbalances. Explain intimidation, coercive control, difficulty speaking freely, unsafe communication, substance concerns, or fear about being in the same room so the mediator can assess whether and how the process should proceed.

Ask about separate rooms or remote participation
Confirm confidentiality and its limits
Use safe contact information and document-sharing methods
Do not continue a process in which you cannot participate safely or voluntarily

Common questions

Does a family mediator decide who is right?

No. A mediator facilitates discussion and possible agreement but does not impose a decision. If no agreement is reached, other negotiation, arbitration, or court options may remain.

Do I still need a lawyer if I use mediation?

Independent legal advice can help you understand rights, evaluate proposals, and turn terms into an enforceable agreement. The mediator is neutral and does not act as either participant’s lawyer.

Is mediation appropriate where there has been family violence?

It may be unsuitable or require safeguards depending on the circumstances. Disclose safety and power concerns during screening and obtain independent advice about safer process options.