Welcome to our blog series featuring the exceptional professionals at Toronto Family Mediation Services. In this series, we will introduce you to our diverse team of experienced mediators and IRCs, each dedicated to helping families navigate complex issues with compassion and expertise.
Whether you’re dealing with divorce, custody arrangements, or other family disputes, our professionals are committed to providing personalized support and solutions tailored to your unique needs. Join us as we explore how their expertise can guide you toward a more harmonious resolution.
What do you enjoy most about your work with TFMS?
I enjoy the collaborative environment we have as a team. The diversity within our team and the organization enriches our work. Every day brings new knowledge and experience. I have learned about the many free resources available for people who can’t afford a lawyer. What I love the most is that within my role as an IRC, I mainly focus on empowering and educating the public, providing litigants with essential legal knowledge and procedural understanding. This allows them to make informed decisions about their cases and navigate the court system with more confidence. In addition, I help vulnerable women by referring them to agencies that can create a holistic plan to navigate their future.
How do you feel court-connected services help address access to justice issues?
Many of the services offered for free, such as mediation and pre-conference sessions, reduce the court’s burden by freeing up judges’ time for complex matters, leading to faster resolution times and lower overall costs for the justice system. These services facilitate more amicable and quicker resolutions, minimizing the emotional strain and financial burdens associated with lengthy court battles. In addition, some courts have Duty Counsels who support the public by answering questions and representing those who cannot afford a lawyer. Duty Counsels are the cornerstones of ensuring access to justice for those who cannot afford legal representation.
What do you do when you are not working as a mediator and/or IRC
I volunteer with various community mediation organizations. When I’m not volunteering, I enjoy swimming, canoeing, and spending time in nature.
