Articles
In-depth articles from the Riverdale Mediation team of professionals.
February 2, 2026
Court ignores Arbitration Act Regulation, endorses process with unenforceable outcome
By Hilary Linton and Brahm D. Siegel (Originally published by LAW360 Canada on January 28, 2026) A Superior Court decision has struck a blow…
October 8, 2024
Best Practices for Screening for Family Violence and Power Imbalances in Family Mediation-Arbitration
By Hilary Linton What are some of the best practices for screening for family violence and power imbalances in family mediation-arbitration? 1. Screening is a…
November 7, 2023
Quick guide to parenting co-ordination in Ontario courts
This article was originally published in Law360 Canada on November 2, 2023. By Hilary Linton Parenting co-ordination (PC) in Ontario is a creature…
Blog
In-depth articles from the Riverdale Mediation team of professionals.
February 25, 2026
It is time for family arbitrators to get “screening” right
Since 2007, the Ontario government has regulated family arbitration practice. A key requirement is the arbitrator’s responsibility to ensure that parties have been screened for…
December 18, 2025
Should family lawyers have a duty to screen for family violence?
Bill C-223, An Act to amend the Divorce Act, has ignited discussion in the family law community. Whether that private member’s legislation becomes law or…
December 9, 2025
Screening for Power Imbalance & IPV in Collaborative Practice
by Cindy Chisvin & Hilary Linton Summary: The notion that if IPV exists then the clients are not candidates for the collaborative process has been…
News & Announcements
In-depth articles from the Riverdale Mediation team of professionals.
CBA Webinar on Disclosure in ADR
We are pleased to announce that Hilary Linton will be one of the featured speakers at the upcoming Canadian Bar Association (CBA) webinar, “An Urgent Need to Address Family Violence: Professional Competence and Safety Considerations.”
This webinar will examine how ADR professionals can address family violence safely and competently—an issue that requires continued focus across the field.
Hilary will join a panel discussion, drawing on her extensive experience in family mediation, arbitration, and screening for power imbalances, to explore:
- Identifying and responding to family violence
- Ensuring safe and ethical practice
- Navigating complex power imbalances
- Strengthening professional competence in high-risk cases
This webinar is essential for mediators, arbitrators, lawyers, and other dispute resolution professionals.
Learn more and register here.
Honouring Black History Through Stories That Shaped Canada
We’re proud to share that Avagene Skervin will be moderating an upcoming Ontario Association for Family Mediation (OAFM) Lunch & Learn in recognition of Black History Month.This special session, scheduled for February 18 (1:00 – 2:00 pm EST), will feature Rochelle Bush of Tubman Tours Canada, presenting:“Niagara’s Freedom Trail: Exploring People, Places and Events”This powerful and educational talk traces over three centuries (1780–1905) of early Black history in Niagara, Ontario, highlighting the individuals, communities, and pivotal moments that helped shape Canada and influence the world.We encourage our community to attend this meaningful session and take part in the ongoing learning and reflection that Black History Month invites.Upcoming Webinar: Screening for Power Imbalances in Family Dispute Resolution
Join Hilary Linton, Borzou Tabrizi, and Judith M. Nicoll for an in-depth and timely webinar focused on one of the most critical components of Family Dispute Resolution (FDR): effective screening for power imbalances.
Screening is not only a best practice — it is mandatory for ensuring that FDR processes are conducted safely and appropriately. Yet uncertainty around who should screen, when screening should occur, and how it should be conducted can expose professionals to allegations of improper practice and create safety risks for both parties and practitioners.
This seminar is designed to strengthen your confidence and competence in this essential area of practice.
Participants will gain insight into:
Why FDR can be safer and more effective than court in many cases
The key elements of thorough and effective screening
How screening requirements differ across dispute resolution processes
The professional and safety risks associated with inadequate screening
New tools, resources, and practical guidance to support best practices
This foundational webinar is ideal for mediators, parenting coordinators, collaborative professionals, arbitrators, and family lawyers seeking to ensure compliance, enhance client safety, and strengthen professional standards.
Newsletter
The Riverdale Mediation Newsletter will keep you updated on our course schedule, speaking engagements and exciting updates in the world of Family Mediation.
