Preparing for an Ontario settlement conference

A settlement conference gives the parties an opportunity to discuss resolution and narrow the issues before trial. Prepare by identifying the facts you can agree on, the points in dispute, and the documents supporting your position. Follow the court's requirements for exchanging materials and identifying proposed witnesses.

Develop a realistic settlement range after considering proof, legal issues, collection prospects, and the cost of continuing. Prepare an accurate damages calculation and think about payment dates or other terms that could make an agreement workable. Bring authority to settle where required. A conference is more useful when you can explain both the strengths and the weaknesses of your case. Record any settlement carefully before leaving the process.

Prepare a short presentation that identifies the agreement, the main disagreement, and the result you are seeking. Have key documents ready in the order you expect to discuss them. A conference is easier to use when you can locate the disputed invoice, important message, or repair estimate immediately. If you represent a business, confirm who can approve settlement and whether that person must attend. Consider practical terms such as instalments, document delivery, or the return of property alongside the payment amount.

Think about the other side's likely concern as well as your own position. A settlement may become possible if the parties address timing, proof of payment, a limited release, or how an existing claim will end. Check the wording of any proposed agreement before accepting it, especially provisions triggered by a missed payment. After the conference, review any order, remaining disclosure obligations, and next hearing date. A productive discussion does not eliminate the need to complete procedural steps that remain in force.

Sources

• Ontario guide to getting ready for court
• Rules of the Small Claims Court O Reg 258 98

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General Ontario legal information, not legal advice for your matter, and reading it does not create a retainer. Sources checked 15 October 2026: check the current law, forms and dates before you act.

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This article is general information for people in Ontario, not legal advice. Rules, forms and deadlines change, and every situation is different. Check the current rule or speak to a licensed legal professional before you act.