Information & Referral Coordination Services (IRC)

The Family Mediation Centre provides an Information & Referral Coordinator (IRC) at the Family Law Information Centre (FLIC) in the courthouses where family law matters are heard in London, Chatham, Windsor, Owen Sound, Sarnia, Stratford, Goderich, Woodstock, Walkerton and St. Thomas areas.

An Information & Referral Coordinator acts as a bridge between the family court and services available in the community by obtaining and distributing information through outreach and liaison with community agencies. An IRC promotes awareness of the FLIC and works closely with family court staff, advice lawyers, and other relevant service providers.

IRCs maintain current publications and audio-visual materials in the FLICs. These materials are available to the public free of charge. IRCs keep an up-to-date list of programs and services in the community that are accessible to the Court, lawyers, court staff, and anyone living in the areas surrounding the courthouses we serve.

IRCs provide information on non-legal issues related to family law such as separation, divorce, child protection matters, alternative dispute resolution, and community resources. An IRC can help you determine your needs and provide information so you can make a referral to the appropriate resource such as a Mandatory Information Program.

IRCs facilitate Mandatory Information Programs (MIPs)

The IRCs facilitate the Mandatory Information Programs (MIPs) at each courthouse, they handle re-scheduling requests and can answer any questions you may have about MIP requirements for completing this program.

The IRC provides information about mediation and takes referrals for mediation (both on-site and off-site) at the courthouse. They triage all on-site mediations to determine appropriateness and work closely with the mediators.

Information can be provided in person at Court, via e-mail or by telephone. Please refer to the Contact Us page for details on how to get in touch with an IRC in your area.