Med/Arb can save time, reduce legal costs and give parties a faster path to resolution. It is especially useful when you want the chance to negotiate, but also need the certainty of a final decision if agreement cannot be reached.

Heft Mediation helps clients determine whether Med/Arb is the right fit, prepares the process, facilitates settlement discussions and provides a fair and organized arbitration process if needed. We serve clients online in Toronto and throughout Ontario.

At Heft Mediation, we help families and individuals find workable lasting resolutions without the cost, delay and stress of courtroom litigation. Whether you are navigating a separation, a family dispute or a challenging co-parenting arrangement, we are here to help you move forward with dignity and clarity.

Med/Arb is a hybrid process that combines mediation and arbitration into one seamless, efficient path to resolution. It is one of the most practical and cost-effective options available to families today and it is what Heft Mediation is built around.

Step 1: Med/Arb Agreement

Both parties sign a Med/Arb agreement at the outset, agreeing to both stages of the process. This agreement outlines the issues to be addressed and the rules that will apply throughout.

Step 2: Mediation Phase

The process begins with mediation. Working together with your mediator, you will explore options, communicate needs and try to reach agreement on each issue. Many families resolve everything at this stage. Your mediator helps the parties explore settlement options and narrow the issues in dispute. If the parties reach agreement, the matter ends there and the settlement can be documented in writing. If some or all issues remain unresolved, the process transitions to arbitration.

Step 3: Transition to Arbitration (if needed)

If any issues are not resolved through mediation, the process moves directly into arbitration. No delays, no starting over with somebody new. Your mediator is already familiar with your situation and can move efficiently to a hearing and binding decision.

Step 4: The Award

A written, binding award is issued for any issues decided by arbitration. Anything resolved in the mediation phase is captured in a Memorandum of Understanding which can be incorporated into a final formal agreement or court order.

Med/Arb saves time and money by combining both processes with one neutral person. It avoids the uncertainty and delay of litigation. There is no doubling up on background, fees or scheduling. It gives you the opportunity to reach your own agreement first, while guaranteeing that a resolution will be reached either way.

It also gives the parties a real opportunity to settle collaboratively before moving to a final decision. For many separating couples, that combination of flexibility and certainty makes it a practical alternative to court.

For families who want certainty without court, it's often the ideal path.