Definition : Conciliation

A private mode of dispute prevention and resolution whereby the parties voluntarily choose to attempt to resolve their disputes with the assistance of a neutral and impartial specialist: the conciliator. The conciliation process is similar to mediation. However, the conciliator is usually a representative of the judiciary or the public administration. In this regard, the Court of Québec, the Superior Court of Québec and the Court of Appeal offer litigants a free conciliation service, known as the amicable settlement conference. The  conciliating judge may not preside over the trial, in the event that the dispute between the parties cannot be resolved.