Court Alternatives in Ontario, Canada

Our Ontario Family Lawyers Can Help You Explore Collaborative Options

Not every divorce or family law matter need be resolved in court. There are alternatives, and these may provide an effective way of resolving even complex or contested issues. Settlement meetings, mediation, and arbitration can help spouses, parents, ex-spouses, and other parties find resolutions to their family law matters without the intervention of the court. This can save a considerable amount of time and money and can significantly reduce stress as well. Alternatives to court also foster more amicable relationships between divorcing or separating couples.

Since 1994, Feldstein Family Law Group P.C. has provided personalized legal representation to clients across Ontario in all areas of family law. We are always ready to explore alternatives to court, as our primary objective is to protect our clients’ best interests. When you work with an Ontario family lawyer at our firm, we will take the time to talk to you about all of your options, including how avoiding court may affect your case.

Call (905) 581-7222 for a free consultation and analysis of your case. We serve Markham, Oakville, Mississauga, Vaughan, and the surrounding areas in Ontario.

Settlement Meetings

At any point in the legal process the parties and their lawyers may choose to sit down and discuss the issues. Such meetings usually take place at a lawyer’s office. In the meeting, the lawyers attempt to negotiate and settle the issues at hand. If all issues are resolved, the terms of the settlement will be incorporated into a Minutes of Settlement or Separation Agreement.

Mediation

With mediation, a neutral third party (often a senior family law practitioner who is a lawyer, retired Judge, psychologist, or social worker) will work to guide the parties to an agreement. Mediation can only be used if both parties agree to utilize this alternative to court. The mediator will be chosen and paid for jointly by the parties.

Arbitration

Arbitration is another alternative to litigation. As with mediation, both parties must consent to arbitration and they jointly retain the arbitrator. Arbitrations are conducted by senior family law counsel or retired family law Judges.

Med/Arb

The med/arb process is becoming increasingly popular in family law cases. Like mediation and arbitration, this process involves the agreement of both parties and is presided over by senior family law counsel. Med/arb begins with mediation, which takes place in the same manner as set out above.

Considering mediation, arbitration, or another alternative to court? Find out more by calling an Ontario family lawyer at (905) 581-7222.