Mandatory Information Program for Separating Parents in Ontario

If you have started a family court case in Ontario, or been served with one, you will likely be told to attend a Mandatory Information Program session. It is an information session, not a hearing, and it comes early in the process.

This article explains what the MIP is, who must go, the timing, exceptions, and what can happen if you skip it. Local court practice can vary, so confirm details with your courthouse.

What the MIP is

The MIP is part of Ontario's family justice services and is generally the first step in a family court case, whoever started it. What a session covers and how it applies to your case is worth confirming with your court.

People who are not in a court case can also attend through a local provider.

When you must attend

You must attend a session before your first appearance or case conference, and no later than 45 days after the case is started. Both parties generally must attend, whoever started the case.

The timing and exemptions are applied by each court location, so ask your court about your deadline and how to register.

Exceptions

Some people do not have to attend. Exceptions include cases where both parties agree to the order requested, cases about only divorce, costs, or an order based on an existing agreement or order, and where the person has already completed the program.

• Both sides agree to the order being requested.
• The case is only about divorce, costs, or an order based on an existing agreement or order.
• You have already completed the program.

If you think you qualify for an exception, check with the court rather than assuming, and keep proof if you have already completed the program.

What happens if you skip it

A judge can make an order against a party who does not attend. The exact consequence depends on the case and the judge, so it is not safe to treat attendance as optional.

If you have a real obstacle, such as safety concerns, work or lack of access to a computer, contact the court as soon as possible. The family justice system also includes Family Court Support Workers for victims of domestic violence, and a lawyer can advise on how to raise concerns about attending.

How the MIP fits with the rest of the process

After the MIP you move into the court steps. The case conference is usually the first time you speak to a judge about the issues, and you must attend every conference. Other family justice services can help along the way, including free on-site courthouse mediation on the day of court, low-cost off-site mediation on a sliding fee scale, Family Law Information Centres, and supervised access centres.

Parenting decisions are based on the child's best interests, with primary consideration to the child's physical, emotional and psychological safety, security and well-being. A parenting plan can come out of any family dispute resolution process, and parents can ask the court to include their agreement in a consent order.

What to do next

• Find the date your case started and count 45 days from it.
• Contact your court or local provider to register for an online or courthouse session.
• Decide whether children will attend or be cared for elsewhere, since a session is one hour without children and two hours with them.
• If you think an exception applies, confirm it with the court in writing.
• Speak with a lawyer if safety, language or access issues make attending difficult. Limited-scope services and Legal Aid Ontario may help.

Frequently asked questions