0. Regulatory Alignment (Overview)
- Privacy: PIPEDA; awareness of provincial PIPA (AB/BC) and Quebec Law 25 expectations including Privacy Officer contact publication
- Spam / email: CASL opt-in and unsubscribe requirements
- Accessibility: AODA (Ontario), WCAG 2.1/2.2 Level AA goals, and awareness of the Accessible Canada Act for federally regulated contexts
- Website legal suite: Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, Data Use, Disclaimer, cookie banner
1. Service Scope Policy
AHANSA offers mediation, practical legal support, notary/commissioner services, and related assistance as described on this website. Services may be delivered in person, virtually, or by phone, subject to suitability and agreement. We reserve the right to decline or end services where there is a conflict of interest, safety concern, lack of capacity to assist, or non-payment, in accordance with professional obligations.
2. Consultation Policy
- Introductory consultations, when offered as free or limited-scope, are intended to understand your situation and explain options.
- A consultation does not create an ongoing professional relationship unless engagement is confirmed.
- We may limit consultation length and topics to keep the process fair and efficient.
3. Mediation Conduct Policy
Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process facilitated by a neutral. Participants are expected to:
- Communicate respectfully and allow others to speak
- Provide accurate information relevant to the dispute
- Attend scheduled sessions or provide timely notice if unable to attend
- Refrain from threats, harassment, or intimidation
We may pause, separate, or terminate a session if safety, fairness, or process integrity is compromised.
4. Confidentiality Policy
We treat client and mediation information as confidential, subject to:
- Applicable law and professional rules
- Court orders or legal compulsion
- Imminent risk of serious harm where disclosure is permitted or required
- Your written authorization to share information
See also our Privacy Policy and Data Use page.
5. Cancellation & Rescheduling Policy
- Please provide at least 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule appointments where possible.
- Late cancellations or no-shows may result in fees as set out in your engagement terms or as communicated when booking.
- If we must cancel, we will offer to reschedule promptly.
6. Fees & Payment Policy
Fees depend on the service type, complexity, and time involved. Where fees apply:
- Estimates may be provided for planning; final fees depend on actual work performed unless a fixed fee is agreed
- Payment methods and timing will be confirmed before or at engagement
- Unpaid balances may result in suspension of services where permitted
7. Document & Notary Policy
For notary, commissioning, and document services, clients are responsible for bringing valid identification and complete, accurate documents. We may refuse to notarize or commission where legal requirements are not met, fraud is suspected, or the signer lacks capacity or willingness.
8. Virtual Services Policy
Virtual sessions require a private space, stable internet, and appropriate technology. Recording of sessions is not permitted unless all parties and AHANSA expressly agree in writing. Participants should not join from vehicles or public spaces when confidentiality is required.
9. Accessibility & Inclusion Policy
We aim to provide services and digital content in a respectful, barrier-reducing manner:
- Ontario — AODA: As an Ontario-based organization, we work toward compliance with the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act and related customer service and information/communication standards applicable to us
- WCAG: We aim for Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG 2.1 / 2.2 Level AA) for this website where reasonably practicable (aligned with approaches used in jurisdictions such as British Columbia and Manitoba for public web services)
- Accessible Canada Act (ACA): Federally regulated organizations must provide barrier-free digital content; while AHANSA is primarily provincially oriented, we support the same accessibility goals for our web materials
Please tell us about accessibility needs (interpretation, document formats, mobility access, digital accommodations) in advance. Full details: Accessibility Statement.
9A. Electronic Communications (CASL) Policy
Commercial electronic messages (promotional emails, newsletters) are sent only with affirmative opt-in consent (or another CASL-permitted basis). Every commercial message includes a clear, functional unsubscribe mechanism. Service-related messages necessary to provide requested services may still be sent as permitted by law.
10. Conflict of Interest Policy
We screen for conflicts of interest. If a conflict arises or is discovered, we will disclose it as required and may decline or withdraw from the matter in accordance with professional standards.
11. Complaints & Feedback Policy
We welcome feedback. If you have a concern about our services, contact us at ahansamediationservices@gmail.com or (877) 751-6166. We will review concerns in good faith and respond within a reasonable time. Certain professional designations may also provide external complaint avenues.
12. Website Content Policy
Website content is general information only and may change without notice. It is not a substitute for professional advice. For binding terms of service engagement, refer to your written agreement with AHANSA.
13. Updates
We may revise these Policies periodically. The “Last updated” date indicates the latest version. Continued use of our website or services after updates constitutes awareness of the revised Policies where applicable.
Related: Privacy Policy · Terms of Use · Data Use · Accessibility