2. Choose the best ADR option for you
Question & Answer
Can we resolve our family law issues without going to court?Learning about each (ADR) option or family dispute resolution process can help you pick the one that works for your family:
- negotiation
- collaborative family law
- mediation
- arbitration
- mediation-arbitration
- parenting coordination
Some ADR processes allow you to have more control over the result. You and your partner have the most control in , , and . This is because you don't give someone else the power to decide things for your family.
With and , someone else can make a final decision, usually after you and your partner have tried unsuccessfully to make an agreement. In , you agree to let an arbitrator decide for you.
There isn't one option that's best for everyone. The best option to resolve your issues depends on things like your relationship with your partner, how complicated your legal issues are, and your goals.
You and your partner must agree to use the same process and you must agree on the details. You and your partner can even choose to hire a family law professional together.
Get help choosing an option
Contact your local Family mediation and information services or Family Law Information Centre (FLIC) for more information about your options and to get a referral to an ADR professional.
There are FLIC offices in every Ontario courthouse that deals with family law. All of them have free pamphlets on topics such as separation and , the court process, and family mediation. Many FLICS have staff, called Information Referral Coordinators, who can give you information and refer you to community agencies and legal services.
Each family court location in Ontario offers subsidized mediation services. You can get up to 8 hours of mediation for a fee that is based on each person's income. You can use this service whether or not you have a court case. And if you have a court case, you can get up to 2 hours of mediation for free at the court.