Legal Aid Ontario settlement conferences
A valuable dispute resolution process in family law
Legal Aid Ontario (LAO) settlement conferences offer an accessible alternative to going to court. Led by experienced family lawyers trained in negotiation and conflict resolution, these virtual sessions help parties reach voluntary agreements quickly and confidentially.
Why choose an LAO settlement conference?
- There is no cost to participants, making settlement accessible.
- They are available at any stage of a family law matter, without requiring a court proceeding.
- All family law issues may be addressed, without restrictions.
- Scheduling is flexible and timely, helping expedite resolution.
- Most sessions are offered virtually, ensuring access for parties across Ontario.
Who is eligible for an LAO settlement conference?
- At least one party must qualify for legal aid.
- Both parties must be represented by counsel during the conference.
To request an LAO settlement conference:
- Counsel must submit a formal request using Legal Aid Online.
- LAO staff will coordinate scheduling and provide procedural instructions.
Preparation time and attendance at an LAO settlement conference is billable under the LAO tariff. For more information, counsel may refer to the Tariff and Billing Handbook.
See below for detailed information on how to request an LAO settlement conference.
Domestic violence and safety considerations
Facilitators are trained to recognize and respond to issues of domestic violence, power imbalances, and high-conflict dynamics. At the start of each LAO settlement conference, participants are advised that the process may be ended at any time if safety becomes a concern.
Counsel play a vital role in screening for appropriateness and are encouraged to advise LAO if the process is unsuitable for a given case.
LAO will not schedule an LAO settlement conference where court-imposed restrictions prohibit participation (e.g., bail conditions or no-contact orders).
Confidentiality and voluntariness
LAO settlement conferences are governed by strict confidentiality protocols:
- Facilitators do not produce reports for court, nor do they become witnesses in legal proceedings.
- Any notes or correspondence in the process are for discussion purposes only and may not be disclosed in court without written consent from both counsel and the facilitator.
- Counsel and both parties must sign a confidentiality agreement at the outset of the process.
If parties reach a settlement, the facilitator will provide a summary of the agreement in principle, on a without prejudice basis. Counsel may then prepare Minutes of Settlement or a Consent Order based on that summary, ensuring that all final decisions are made with the benefit of legal advice.
How to request an LAO settlement conference
To initiate an LAO settlement conference:
- Counsel must submit a written request through Legal Aid Online, attaching it to the relevant active certificate.
- Counsel must include the names of the parties, counsel for each party, and the location of the matter (e.g., court location or region, if known).
- LAO staff will then coordinate scheduling and next steps.
For technical support using Legal Aid Online, contact the Lawyer Service Centre (LSC):
Phone: 416-979-9934 or toll-free at 1-866-979-9934
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
LAO encourages members of the bench and bar to promote and use LAO settlement conferences, when appropriate, as a practical, equitable and client-centred dispute resolution process.
For a printable version of this information, see Legal Aid Ontario settlement conferences: A valuable dispute resolution process in family law.