Family mediation

The family mediation program allows couples with dependent children, whether or not they are married, to receive a number of free sessions with a professional mediator.

Nature and goals

Family mediation is a conflict resolution method in which an impartial mediator helps the spouses negotiate a fair and viable agreement.

Advantages

Family mediation helps reduce conflicts in connection with an application for custody, access and outing rights, support payments or the division of property.

Family mediation for couples without children or common dependent children

Mediation gives you the opportunity to settle your separation amicably. A mediator is a neutral person who can help you find satisfactory solutions to your separation.

Videos on family mediation

Watch to the videos produced by the ministère de la Justice du Québec.

Family mediation for couples without children or common dependent children

Mediation gives you the opportunity to settle your separation amicably. A mediator is a neutral person who can help you find satisfactory solutions to your separation.

Use of mediation

All parents with dependent children can use mediation at any time.

Free information session on parenting after separation

Parenting after separation information sessions are provided free of charge.

Finding a certified family mediator

Only certified mediators can engage in family mediation. Several professional orders are authorized by the Québec government to certify their members.

Content and procedure for the mediation session

Understand the content, the organization of meetings and the phases of mediation.

Parents’ roles

Your collaboration as participating parents is essential to the success of the mediation process.

Role of mediator

The mediator ensures that negotiations are conducted fairly and in full knowledge of the facts and that the needs of the children are taken into consideration during the negotiations.

Duration and cost

Free family mediation sessions are offered for couples with children of minor age, or dependent children aged 18 or above, up to a fixed number of hours depending on their situation.

Steps to take following mediation

Understanding the steps to take following mediation.

Complaint against a mediator

To file a complaint against a mediator for an action performed while acting as a mediator, you must contact the relevant professional order.

Québec Family Mediation Day

The first Wednesday of February each year is Québec family mediation day, which reflects the aim to make the general public more aware of family mediation.

Last update: April 6, 2023