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Separation and divorce

Family mediation: How much does it cost?

Whether you’re married or in a de facto relationship, the Ministère de la Justice du Québec funds free family mediation when you go through a divorce or separation. The number of free hours depends on your situation.

You have a right to free family mediation hours

Whether you’re married or in a de facto relationship, you have a right to a limited number of free family mediation hours when you go through a divorce or separation.

These free hours are funded by the Ministère de la Justice du Québec. This includes family mediation sessions and the work that the mediator does outside of the sessions (for example, the time spent on preparing a summary of agreements).

Over the course of the sessions, the mediator will tell you how many free hours you have left.

Important

To benefit from these free hours, your mediator must be accredited and must participate in the family mediation program of the Ministère de la Justice du Québec.

If your mediator doesn’t participate in the program, you’ll have to pay the fees that the mediator charges you. Ask about the mediator’s fees before choosing a mediator because fees can vary.

The number of free hours depends on your situation

Without common dependent children

3 heures3 free hours

For a first agreement in the context of a divorce or separation (for example, you discuss the division of property or spousal support).

With common dependent children

5 heures5 free hours

For a first agreement in the context of your separation or divorce (for example, the first time you discuss child custody, spousal support, or the division of your property).

2.5 hours2.5 free hours

  • to modify an existing agreement or a court decision,
  • if you and your ex already used the family mediation program and want to go back to family mediation to settle another dispute, or
  • if you and your ex already used the family mediation program to get a separation from bed and board (also called a “legal separation”).

Need more hours?

If you go over the free hours available to you, you must pay a fixed rate of $130 per hour + tax. Accredited mediators cannot charge you more than this amount.

If you started your mediation sessions before November 23, 2023, the hourly rate for extra hours is $110 instead of $130.

WARNING

The information presented on this page is not a legal opinion or legal advice. This page explains in a general way the law that applies in Quebec. To obtain a legal opinion or legal advice on your personal situation, consult a legal professional.

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