What is a Settlement Conference?

A settlement conference allows the parties to discuss the strengths and weakness of their case with the assistance of a Tribunal member. It differs from mediation in that it is a mandatory, evaluative process and is chaired by a Tribunal member.

The Tribunal selects cases to proceed to a settlement conference based on the following criteria:

• Parties have divergent opinions on an issue of law;
• It could be in the interest of the parties to settle the complaint; or
• Any other reason deemed appropriate by the Tribunal.

Once a date is set, the complainant and his or her representative and the deputy head’s delegated representatives receive, in advance, a Notice of Settlement Conference summoning them to appear as well as copies of documents related to the process.