The Mandatory Information Program, commonly called the MIP, is an early step in many Ontario family court cases. It is designed to explain the court process, dispute-resolution options and the effects of separation on adults and children. It is not a private legal consultation and it does not decide the issues in a particular case.
Confirm whether the MIP applies to the case
Rule 8.1 of Ontario's Family Law Rules identifies the claims and proceedings to which the MIP applies, including many parenting, support, property, matrimonial-home and restraining-order cases. The rule also lists limited exceptions, such as certain consent matters, cases with only specified claims and parties who have already attended. Review the actual claims and court instructions rather than assuming an exception.
Use the notice provided by the court
The Ontario Superior Court of Justice says parties are given information about scheduling and attending the MIP when an application is filed. Keep the notice, registration details and any attendance confirmation with the court file. If the instructions are missing or a deadline cannot be met, contact the appropriate court or Family Law Information Centre rather than simply skipping the program.
Know what the session is—and is not
The MIP provides general information about separation, the legal process, alternatives to court, the effect of separation on children and available resources. Presenters do not determine credibility, make orders or give one party advice about the merits of a case. Questions about strategy, evidence, deadlines or proposed terms should be taken to a lawyer.
Expect an early-stage requirement
The Superior Court's current provincial practice direction states that parties must attend a MIP at an early stage, subject to limited exceptions, and that virtual MIPs are available across Ontario. The MIP is separate from a first appearance, case conference, settlement conference or motion. Completing it does not replace the other steps required in the case.
Prepare without bringing private disputes into a group session
Have the court file number, MIP notice, calendar and a way to take general notes. The program is educational; it is not the place to disclose sensitive allegations, negotiate with the other party or present evidence. Keep safety information, financial documents and detailed legal questions for an appropriate confidential channel.
Use the next step to organize the file
After the MIP, review the court timetable, service and filing requirements, disclosure obligations and any upcoming appearance. The Family Law Information Centre can provide process information and referrals, while a lawyer can advise how the law applies to the facts. If there is urgency, family violence or a safety concern, obtain advice promptly because ordinary scheduling may not address the immediate issue.
Questions about your own situation? The documents, dates and facts matter. Meysami Law Professional Corp. assists clients in Ottawa with family law matters.
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Official Resources
Ontario Superior Court of Justice: steps in a family case · Ontario Family Law Rules, Rule 8.1 · Ontario Superior Court: provincial family practice direction · Ontario Court of Justice: family case step by step
This article is general information as of October 1, 2026, not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules and circumstances can change. Contacting the firm does not create a lawyer-client relationship.