Can a mediated settlement of a will dispute bind a minor or incapable beneficiary in Ontario?

Not on its own. A settlement reached at mediation isn't automatically binding on a minor or incapable beneficiary's interest just because their litigation guardian, the Office of the Children's Lawyer, or the Public Guardian and Trustee agreed to the terms at the table. Because that beneficiary can't legally consent to give up or compromise their own interest, Ontario courts require a separate step: the settlement has to be brought before a judge, who reviews it specifically to confirm it's in that beneficiary's best interests before approving it.

This approval hearing is usually straightforward where the settlement is genuinely fair and reasonable, and the reviewing body (the Office of the Children's Lawyer or Public Guardian and Trustee) already supports it, but it isn't a rubber stamp — a judge can decline to approve terms that shortchange the vulnerable beneficiary compared to what they'd likely receive if the matter went to trial. Until court approval is obtained, the settlement generally isn't final or enforceable as against that beneficiary's share, even if every other party has already signed on. Anyone negotiating a settlement involving a minor or incapable beneficiary should plan for this extra approval step as part of the timeline, not as an afterthought.