Do Mediators Make Decisions?

How will our parenting time be divided?

Who will decide where our kids go to school?

Which parent gets the kids on Christmas morning?

These are just a few examples of the personal, and often complex issues that can be discussed and resolved through family mediation. But when two people choose to mediate, who actually decides the outcome?

A common misconception is that the mediator makes the final call.

Mediators Are Neutral by Definition

In family mediation, a core principle is that the parties themselves remain in control of all decisions. Throughout the process, parents explore options, propose solutions, and work toward mutually acceptable agreements on issues like parenting time, decision-making, communication style and holiday schedules.

The mediator’s role is to guide the discussion,  helping keep conversations productive, respectful, and focused on problem-solving. A mediator facilitates communication, but does not take sides or impose decisions.

Ultimately, it’s not the mediator’s job to decide the outcome. All final decisions rest with the participants.

A Benefit for Ontario Families

Family mediation empowers parents to craft their own agreements, rather than having outcomes imposed by a judge or third party. By putting decisions in the hands of the people who know their situation best, mediation often leads to more practical, durable, and child-focused resolutions.

And for many families in Ontario, that’s an outcome strongly worth considering.