The divorce process can be a very emotional time for both you and your former spouse. You may feel angry, sad or even scared about what the future has in store but there are many things that need to happen before this becomes finalized so it’s important not just anyone handles these delicate situations alone!
Guides on Attending MIP sessions and FLIP
There are many factors to consider when you separate from your partner. The law outlines your rights and sets out a process of getting any orders that you may need. This information sheet provides basic information about what happens when you separate from your partner. The divorce process is often a long and difficult process, but it can be made easier by understanding the different stages of the divorce journey. By knowing what to expect, you can better prepare yourself for what lies ahead. The Family Court is a court that deals with family law issues. This can include property disputes, child custody battles and more!
What is the MIP
The Mandatory Information Process (MIP) is the first step for family court parties who have contested issues. It is a free information session that is normally held in the same court in which an application (the initiating document in a divorce) is filed. Parties attend the MIP separately, and each party must attend the MIP before their matter can come before a judge.
Who needs to attend the MIP?
The MIP is not necessary for couples who:
1) Only desire a divorce (no support or custody and access issues)
2) Agree on all issues and orders desired from the court
3) Have already attended a MIP
4) Want to file a separation agreement
5) Want to bring a motion to change a support order1
What happens during the MIP?
● The session lasts one to two hours, depending on the number of children in your party.
● During the first hour of the mediation session, background information on family law, court proceedings, and their procedures is provided. Parties can also choose to undergo alternative dispute resolution methods like arbitration or collaborative divorce instead!
● In the second hour, we’ll give court parties more information about common issues for family litigants and alternatives to litigation. We also discuss how divorce affects parents or children if it is not resolved amicably, but there are other ways you can work through your differences without going through an official proceeding!
The MIP schedule is as follows:
When an applicant files a new family law case, they are given two notifications, one for their own MIP date and another informing them that of any spouse. The rules require both spouses to be aware of this information. As well so it’s important you contact the Family Law Information Center inside courthouses within 45 days if necessary. Sessions must begin within these times or else long delays can occur while waiting on schedules.
If you require any special arrangements, you can contact the accessibility coordinator at the courthouse where your MIP session will be held.
How do you show the court that you have completed your MIP?
Once you have completed your MIP, you will receive a certificate of completion that you must add to the continuing record of your case. You must also update the table of contents. If you are unsure how to access your continuing record, you can speak to a representative at the courthouse.
FLIP- An online alternative to MIP:
FLIP is an online program that can be used in place of the MIP if you have a complex family law situation. It takes about two hours to complete, but it’s possible to go at your own pace and stop when necessary or use this time as a guide for what questions might need answers later on down the road without having completed all steps just yet!
Whether you are an applicant or a respondent, the Family lawyers at Tailor Law are here to help you navigate divorce process and court system. You can reach our office at 905-366-0202 or contact us through our website here.
