Members of condominium communities and other community associations often live or work closely together, which makes resolving disputes in a constructive way especially important. Mediation offers a practical and relationship-focused approach. Instead of taking sides or declaring a winner and a loser, mediation encourages open communication and mutual understanding. This can reduce tension and help preserve and possibly even improve long-term relationships within the communit

Mediation and arbitration are two common ways to resolve disputes without going to court, but they work quite differently. In the simplest terms, mediation emphasizes cooperation and choice, while arbitration emphasizes decision-making and finality. Mediation is a collaborative process. A neutral mediator helps the parties communicate, understand each other’s perspectives, and explore possible solutions. The mediator does not make decisions or impose outcomes. Instead, the pa

There are many contexts in which conflicts arise, and many “keys” to helping resolve them. One critical key is to avoid fear, especially fear of the conflict itself. Prof. Chad Ford, an internationally recognized mediator, reminds us, “not all conflict is contentious. Not all conflict needs to end in despair or destruction.” Instead, he assures us that “conflict can also lead to joy, prosperity, and strengthened relationships." Prof. Ford compares how conflict works constr

In Ontario, certain condominium disputes must be handled through the Condominium Authority Tribunal, commonly called the CAT. The CAT is an online tribunal created to provide a faster, more affordable way to resolve specific types of condominium conflicts without going to court. The CAT has mandatory jurisdiction over disputes involving condominium records, such as access to financial documents, meeting minutes, or governing records. It also handles many disputes about pets,