How Much Does Family Mediation Cost in Quebec? Subsidized Hours and Rates
The essentials: in Quebec, the government pays for family mediation hours. Couples with dependent children are entitled to a 2.5-hour parenting session, then 5 hours of mediation for a first agreement (or 2.5 hours to review an existing agreement). Couples without common dependent children are entitled to 3 hours for a first agreement. Beyond that, the accredited mediator’s rate is set by regulation at $130 per hour, plus taxes — no accredited mediator may charge more.
What the program covers for couples with dependent children
The Ministère de la Justice du Québec pays the fees of an accredited family mediator for a set number of hours. For couples with dependent children, the program includes a 2.5-hour session on parenting after separation, then, depending on the situation:
- 5 hours of mediation if you are separating and seeking a first agreement;
- 2.5 hours of mediation if you already have an agreement or judgment and wish to have it reviewed.
What about couples without common dependent children?
A separate track exists: according to JuridiQC, couples without common dependent children are entitled to 3 free hours for a first agreement, for example on dividing property or spousal support.
After the subsidized hours: a rate set by regulation
If your file requires more hours than the program covers, the accredited mediator’s rate is regulated: $130 per hour, plus taxes, an amount set by regulation. No accredited mediator may charge above that rate. Couples agree between themselves on how to share those additional hours.
Also plan for this: some costs remain your responsibility depending on the file, such as administrative fees or costs related to a judgment. The mediator explains them upfront.
Why mediation is often the most economical option
Beyond the government-paid hours, mediation often avoids a long contested court process, with the fees and delays that come with it. It also leaves both parties in control of the outcome: you build the agreement, rather than having a third party decide it.
We explained how the program works in detail in our article Free Family Mediation in Quebec: What the Program Covers.
How to benefit from the program
The key condition: choosing an accredited family mediator. At Clinique Octobre, family mediation is offered by an accredited family mediator, in Laval or by teleconsultation anywhere in Quebec, in French, English and Arabic. Contact us to check your eligibility for the subsidized hours based on your situation.
FAQ
Is family mediation really free?
The hours covered by the government program are paid by the Ministère de la Justice when you see an accredited mediator. Beyond those hours, a rate set by regulation applies, and some costs remain your responsibility depending on the file.
How many hours are covered with dependent children?
A 2.5-hour session on parenting after separation, then 5 hours of mediation for a first agreement, or 2.5 hours to review an existing agreement or judgment.
And without common dependent children?
According to JuridiQC, couples without common dependent children are entitled to 3 free hours for a first agreement.
What is the rate after the free hours?
$130 per hour, plus taxes — a rate set by regulation. No accredited mediator may charge above that amount.
Do you have to be married to be eligible?
No. The program applies to married couples and common-law partners alike, provided the mediation is conducted by an accredited mediator taking part in the program.
Do you offer family mediation?
Yes. At Clinique Octobre, family mediation is offered by an accredited family mediator, in Laval or by teleconsultation anywhere in Quebec, in French, English and Arabic.
Structured mediation, at your pace
An accredited family mediator, government-subsidized hours depending on your situation, and support in French, English and Arabic. Contact us for information and your eligibility.
Discover our family mediation serviceSources: Gouvernement du Québec, Duration and cost of mediation · JuridiQC, La médiation familiale, combien ça coûte? (French). See also our Family mediation page and our FAQ. This article is informational and does not replace professional or legal advice; program terms can change — consult the official sources.
