Online Family Mediation Ontario
Online Family Mediation
Across Ontario
A difficult conversation is easier to begin when you understand what comes next. Forward Family Mediation offers online family mediation across Ontario, helping you discuss separation, parenting, support and property matters with a neutral mediator. Meet by Zoom from a private space that works for you, without travelling to a shared office.
Book your free introductory call to talk about what you need and learn how the process works.
A structured conversation with room for your concerns
You may have a few decisions left to make, or you may be unsure where to begin. Mediation gives you a way to identify the issues, explain your concerns and consider practical options together. Your mediator guides the discussion. You and the other participant decide whether to accept any proposed terms.
Laura Ferguson is an Accredited Family Mediator with the Ontario Association for Family Mediation. Her background includes more than 20 years as a family law clerk and mediation training through Riverdale Mediation and Insightful Mediation. Learn about Laura and her approach.
What can we discuss online
Our virtual mediation services can help you work through separation and divorce matters, including the decisions needed to move forward after a relationship ends. Parents can focus on a parenting plan that addresses daily routines, decision-making and communication between homes.
We also facilitate child and spousal support discussions and property and debt discussions. Financial matters require complete, accurate information and advice from your own lawyer about your rights and obligations. You do not need to resolve every issue in a single session.
How virtual mediation sessions work
The process begins with separate intake meetings. This gives each person an opportunity to discuss their circumstances privately and helps Laura assess whether mediation is appropriate. Screening considers safety, family violence, intimidation and power imbalances, and continues throughout the process.
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If mediation is suitable and both people wish to proceed, we discuss the issues, meeting arrangements, confidentiality and fees. Sessions can involve a shared online conversation or separate virtual rooms with the mediator moving between participants. Shuttle mediation is one possible arrangement, subject to suitability. It does not make every situation appropriate for mediation.
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At the end, a mediation summary records the discussions and understandings reached. Each participant should obtain independent legal advice before finalizing or signing an agreement. Mediation itself does not grant a divorce or replace a court order.
Getting ready for Zoom
Choose a private place where children and other people cannot overhear. You will need a reliable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and access to the information needed for your discussion. Let us know about technology or accessibility concerns before the appointment so we can discuss arrangements.
Bring a short list of priorities and questions. If you have existing agreements or orders, tell Laura during intake. Ask how documents should be shared before sending sensitive information. Flexible scheduling, including evenings and weekends, is available by arrangement.
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Serving your community virtually
We support families throughout Ontario, including Barrie, Orangeville and Owen Sound. You can ask about our services even if you and the other participant live in different Ontario communities.
Questions about online mediation
Is online mediation confidential
Confidentiality and its limits are explained before mediation begins. Closed mediation generally keeps discussions private, with exceptions such as disclosures required by law. Your own private setting also matters. Avoid joining from a public place or where you could be overheard.
How much does it cost
Your introductory call is free. Ask for the fees and scope of paid work before proceeding. The overall cost depends on the issues, preparation and sessions needed. Private mediation fees are separate from any lawyer's fees. Ontario also has court-connected and legal aid options for eligible families. Our family resources can help you explore available support.
What if we cannot agree on everything
You may resolve some issues and identify others that need more information or legal advice. No particular outcome or timeline is guaranteed. Mediation is voluntary, and either participant can choose to stop.
Take the first step
You do not need to have all the answers before getting in touch. Book your free introductory call or call 249-733-9587. Forward Family Mediation provides neutral mediation and administrative support, not legal advice or representation.