Mediation has become an increasingly popular option for settling family disputes in Ontario. It’s typically quicker, more cost-effective, and less adversarial than going to court.
Mediators need to prepare and support their clients to make sure each party can participate fully. They need to be alert to anything that can adversely affect a client's ability to engage in the process, such as mental health issues or family violence.
That's why they meet with each party beforehand to understand the factors involved. This is known as pre-mediation, or "screening in."
Thinking about a career in mediation? Keep reading to learn what the intake process involves and why it’s so important.