Family Mediation

What Is Family Mediation?

Family mediation is a voluntary, confidential process in which a neutral, accredited mediator helps family members communicate more effectively and negotiate mutually acceptable resolutions to disputes. Unlike litigation, mediation is not adversarial – it is a cooperative problem-solving process.

At TMHC Mediation, Elizabeth Evans – an Accredited Family Law Mediator and Registered Social Worker – facilitates discussions that allow family members to identify their interests, explore options, and reach agreements that work for their specific circumstances.

Family mediation in Ontario is guided by the Ontario Family Law Act and related statutes. Elizabeth’s practice adheres to the standards set by the Ontario Association for Family Mediation (OAFM) and the standards of practice for accredited mediators in this province.

In Ontario, most people starting a family court case must attend a Mandatory Information Program, where they learn about mediation and other alternatives to court. Families who choose Ontario’s family mediation services reach a full or partial agreement in nearly 78% of cases. 1 2

Mediation is not therapy and does not involve diagnosing or treating family members. It is a legal dispute resolution service. Elizabeth remains strictly neutral throughout, supporting neither side and advocating only for a fair process.

Who This Service Is For

Families navigating separation or divorce who have children and shared property

Adult siblings disagreeing about the care of an aging parent

Extended family members disputing inheritance or estate matters

Blended families working through roles, responsibilities, and boundaries

Families in conflict over financial support obligations

Parents seeking to restructure their parenting roles after a significant life change

Family members who want to resolve disputes privately without going to court

Families where communication has broken down and a neutral third party is needed

Benefits of This Approach

Cost-Effective

Mediation is significantly less expensive than family court litigation, which can cost thousands of dollars and take years to resolve.

Confidential

All discussions in mediation are private and confidential. They cannot be used in court proceedings unless both parties agree.

Family-Controlled

Parties retain decision-making authority. No one imposes an outcome – you and your family craft the agreement.

Timely

Mediation sessions can often be scheduled within weeks rather than waiting months or years for a court date.

Preserves Relationships

The collaborative nature of mediation helps preserve family relationships that would be damaged through adversarial court proceedings.

Culturally Responsive

Elizabeth’s practice acknowledges and respects the diversity of family structures, cultural backgrounds, and values that shape each family’s situation.

The Mediation Process

1

Initial Consultation

Each party meets individually with Elizabeth to discuss the situation, understand the mediation process, and determine whether mediation is appropriate and safe in the circumstances.

2

Joint Sessions

With both (or all) parties present, Elizabeth facilitates structured dialogue. She ensures each voice is heard and guides the conversation toward the key issues that need to be resolved.

3

Exploring Options

Parties brainstorm and evaluate possible solutions. Elizabeth assists in testing options against practical and legal realities while keeping the focus on interests, not positions.

4

Reaching Agreement

When parties reach consensus, Elizabeth prepares a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) summarizing agreed terms. Parties are encouraged to have independent legal counsel review the MOU before signing.

5

Legal Finalization

The MOU is taken to each party’s independent lawyer to be formalized into a legally binding separation agreement or other applicable legal instrument.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Family disputes are rarely simple, but they do not have to be resolved in a courtroom. TMHC Mediation offers a professional, respectful, and cost-effective alternative. Contact Elizabeth Evans today to discuss whether family mediation is right for your situation.

Elizabeth Evans – Accredited FM, CP Med, RSW · Serving Ontario, Canada