Requesting accommodation for an Ontario tribunal hearing

If a disability or another protected need creates a barrier to participating in a tribunal proceeding, request accommodation as early as possible. Explain the barrier and the arrangement that would help you participate, using the tribunal's current process.

Possible requests depend on the circumstances and may concern breaks, communication, documents, technology, or the hearing format. Provide reasonably necessary supporting information without sending unrelated medical history. Keep a copy of the request and any decision or follow-up instructions. A request is not the same as an approved adjournment, so continue monitoring your existing obligations. Tell your representative about the practical difficulty early enough to explore options. The aim is meaningful participation in the proceeding while respecting the tribunal's authority over its process.

Describe what prevents meaningful participation and what arrangement would address that barrier. For example, a request may concern document format, communication support, breaks, or access to suitable technology. Explain the practical need clearly without sending an entire unrelated medical file. Use the tribunal's designated process and keep the request, supporting information, and response together. If the need changes, provide an update promptly rather than assuming an earlier request covers every later difficulty or hearing event.

Confirm what has actually been approved and how it will operate. A pending accommodation request does not necessarily cancel a hearing or extend a filing deadline. If an adjournment or other direction is also required, ask about that separate procedure and continue monitoring existing obligations. Tell your representative about the barrier early enough to plan evidence preparation and attendance. The focus should remain on the participation need and effective arrangement. A clear record helps the tribunal consider the request and helps you avoid arriving with an expectation that has not been communicated or confirmed.

Sources

• Tribunals Ontario accommodation and interpretation requests

Read next: Preparing for a video or telephone hearing

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.