Resolving Disputes Through Mediation and Arbitration
Historically, lawyers have met to resolve disputes between their clients in attempt to avoid expensive and time-consuming litigation. Many people dealing with family law matters also prefer mediation or arbitration because the court process is very public. Those who do not wish to expose their financial information or allegations of an unhappy marriage publicly can resolve their divorce or other family matter out of court.
Mediation in Ontario
Mediation involves negotiations and the creation of a formal written agreement by all involved parties and a shared mediator. Each party agrees with what the mediator recommends. This process prevents the dispute from going public and tends to resolve issues faster than court proceedings. If the parties cannot come to an agreement through mediation, they can choose to meet with an arbitrator and avoid court.
Arbitration in Ontario
Arbitration can be informal or a very formal mini-trial with sworn evidence presented and a court reporter present. Decisions and awards can be upheld by the courts and converted into court judgements. The arbitration process isn't for everyone. At The Law Office of Thomas J. MacLennan, we advise clients to consult with a lawyer to learn about arbitration before making the decision to start the process.
To discuss your unique situation, contact our highly knowledgeable Toronto mediation lawyer through our online form or call 416-591-1354 to arrange a consultation. At The Law Office of Thomas J. MacLennan, we bring a sense of calm and rationality to challenging legal issues. We approach every case with a strong focus on client attention, responsiveness and respect.
