Family Mediation Lawyers in Ontario
Skilled legal support for mediated resolutions that preserve relationships and reduce conflict
Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder and Managing Director of Tailor Law, a trusted Ontario family and divorce law firm. Since 2014, she has helped clients navigate separation, custody, support, and property division with clarity and compassion. Deepa holds a B.Sc. (University of Toronto) and J.D. (University of Ottawa), and regularly shares legal insights to educate and empower individuals going through complex family law matters.
The 30-Second Answer
Family mediation is a voluntary process where a neutral third-party mediator helps you and your former partner negotiate and reach agreements on custody, support, and property issues. Unlike arbitration or court, the mediator doesn't make decisions for you—they facilitate productive discussions and help you find mutually acceptable solutions. Your lawyer can attend mediation sessions with you or provide advice between sessions, ensuring any agreement protects your legal rights before you sign.
Benefits of Family Mediation
Preserves Relationships
Less adversarial than court, better for co-parenting
Focuses on cooperation rather than confrontation
Cost-Effective
Significantly less expensive than litigation
Share mediator costs, reduce legal fees
Faster Resolution
Resolve disputes in weeks or months, not years
Schedule sessions at your convenience
You Control the Outcome
Make your own decisions, not imposed by a judge
Both parties must agree to any settlement
Flexible & Creative
Craft unique solutions tailored to your family
Not limited to what courts can order
Confidential Process
Discussions are private and without prejudice
What's said in mediation stays in mediation
How Family Mediation Works
Initial Consultation
Meet with your lawyer to prepare for mediation
- Discuss your goals and priorities
- Review legal rights and obligations
- Develop negotiation strategy
- Gather necessary documents
Select Mediator
Choose a qualified family law mediator
- Both parties agree on mediator
- Mediator explains process and rules
- Sign mediation agreement
- Schedule first session
Mediation Sessions
Work through issues with mediator's guidance
- Identify all issues to resolve
- Exchange information and proposals
- Explore options and compromises
- Reach tentative agreements
Legal Review
Your lawyer reviews proposed agreements
- Ensure terms are fair and reasonable
- Identify any legal issues
- Suggest modifications if needed
- Confirm you understand implications
Memorandum of Understanding
Mediator drafts summary of agreements
- Document all agreed terms
- Outline custody arrangements
- Detail support obligations
- Specify property division
Separation Agreement
Lawyer drafts legally binding agreement
- Convert mediated terms into legal document
- Both parties obtain independent legal advice
- Sign with witnesses
- File consent orders with court if needed
Open vs. Closed Mediation
Open Mediation
Discussions can be disclosed in court if mediation fails
Best For:
- Custody and parenting issues
- When you want mediator to report to court
- Screening for power imbalances
Advantages:
- Mediator can provide report to court
- Encourages honest disclosure
- Useful for child-focused issues
Closed Mediation
Discussions are confidential and cannot be used in court
Best For:
- Financial and property issues
- When you want complete privacy
- Encouraging frank negotiations
Advantages:
- Complete confidentiality
- Parties can speak freely
- Encourages creative solutions
The Role of Your Lawyer in Mediation
Before Mediation
- Explain your legal rights and obligations
- Help you understand realistic outcomes
- Prepare financial disclosure
- Develop negotiation strategy
- Identify your priorities and bottom lines
During Mediation
- Attend sessions with you (if you choose)
- Provide legal advice during breaks
- Help you evaluate proposals
- Ensure discussions stay on track
- Advocate for your interests
After Mediation
- Review memorandum of understanding
- Ensure terms are fair and enforceable
- Draft separation agreement
- Provide independent legal advice
- File consent orders with court if needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Resolve Your Dispute Through Mediation
Get skilled legal support throughout the mediation process to ensure a fair and lasting agreement.
Meet Our TeamAbout the Author
Deepa Tailor, Senior Family Lawyer
Deepa Tailor is the founder and Managing Director of Tailor Law, a trusted Ontario family and divorce law firm. Since 2014, she has helped clients navigate separation, custody, support, and property division with clarity and compassion. Deepa holds a B.Sc. (University of Toronto) and J.D. (University of Ottawa), and regularly shares legal insights to educate and empower individuals going through complex family law matters.
View Full Profile