Blog

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 power imbalances and family violence before they participate in an arbitration. On February 24, 2026, Hilary Linton and Borzou Tabrizi joined Judith Nicoll to present on the legal requirements for arbitration screening. Here are the …
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As I look back on another year in the mediation field, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunities that continue to shape my work and growth. Being able to serve families as both a court-connected mediator and through my private practice is a privilege I never take for granted. Each file reflects the strength of people navigating conflict and change, …
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We recently had the incredible opportunity to co-present, along with Prof. Katreena Scott, at a conference for collaborative professionals. Collaborative process offers the promise of the safest and most empowering dispute resolution process for survivors of intimate partner violence, with a big caveat: that screening for power imbalances and IPV is effectively done in every file. And that this process …
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At one of our recent mediator-in-training check ins, someone asked about directive mediation. In particular, whether it is acceptable for mediators to make their own settlement suggestions. This good question led to a good discussion. Given the mediation is a process of self-determination, mediators are taught to rarely if ever get themselves involved in outcomes. This can be unrealistic however, …
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Getting Our Facts Straight ADHD is a common condition affecting 5%-9% of children and 3%-5% of adults.  It is a neurodevelopmental disorder and is highly heritable (75%, comparable to the heritability of height).  While there are three types of ADHD (Hyperactive, Inattentive, and Combined), attention and executive function are frequently impacted in all types.  This means that children and adults …
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At Riverdale Mediation, we’re proud to support experienced professionals who are expanding their skills through our family mediation training program. In this blog post, David Frenkel—family law lawyer, partner at Frenkel Tobin LLP, co-author of My Divorce Journal, and Riverdale alumnus —shares his reflections on the value of the program, highlighting how its practical, hands-on approach helped him deepen his understanding of …
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At Riverdale Mediation, we’re inspired by our trainees’ insights. In this blog, Joseph Ho — a seasoned legal and business professional, and Riverdale alumnus — shares candid reflections on his recent experience in our Family Mediation Training Program, highlighting the unique challenges of family mediation and the importance of passion, integrity, and lifelong learning. I completed the family mediation course …
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What inspired you to become a mediator? And did you assist clients who used mediation services before becoming a mediator yourself? As a family lawyer, I have advocated for clients in court for nearly two decades. However, I have always had a desire to help families through what is often some of the most challenging and emotionally difficult times in …
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