TO Request a change of hearing format

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Overview

Tribunals Ontario takes a digital-first approach to meeting the needs of its users. This means that, except in certain limited circumstances, Tribunals Ontario holds hearings only by video conference, telephone, or in writing.

The Practice Direction on Hearing Formats outlines Tribunals Ontario’s approach to determining the format of its hearings, and how a party can request a different hearing format.

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How to request a different hearing format

Fill out the Accommodation Request Form to ask to change your hearing format (for example, from a written or electronic hearing to in-person). Make the request as soon as possible.

To change your hearing format, you will need to establish that:

• The change is required as an accommodation for a Human Rights Code-related need, such as a disability; and/or
• The current hearing format will result in an unfair hearing.

Include all relevant information in the Accommodation Request Form. It is your responsibility to establish that your hearing format should be changed.

Requests to change your hearing format, along with what is considered a fair hearing, are decided based on your specific circumstances. The tribunal will work with you to get the information it needs to decide on the hearing format, and may also contact any other party in the matter to ask for its views about your request. The tribunal will balance various factors to decide what is an appropriate and fair hearing format for your case. Some of these factors are outlined in the Practice Direction on Hearing Formats .

You might also want to visit the Request an accommodation webpage to learn more about how the tribunal can help you participate in your hearing. The tribunal may be able to accommodate you in a way that does not require a change in your hearing format. For example, the tribunal may help you access technology at an access terminal, where you can use a computer or telephone to attend your hearing.

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If you don’t have access to technology (e.g., computer, tablet, telephone) or need technical help

If you do not have access to a telephone, computer and/or internet connection to participate in your proceeding, you can complete an Accommodation Request Form . You should make this request as soon as possible and provide specific details about your challenges in accessing technology.

Note that you can participate in a videoconference by telephone/smartphone.

Tribunals Ontario may provide an access terminal or participation in the phone program to parties who have technology challenges in participating in an electronic proceeding. Information about these programs is below.

Access Terminals

Tribunals Ontario provides access terminal services almost anywhere in the province for parties who have technology challenges in participating in an electronic proceeding.

If the tribunal approves your request to use an access terminal, Tribunals Ontario will identify a suitable alternate venue and coordinate the technical equipment, including a laptop and internet connection, and technical support on the day of your proceeding. If you are not familiar with using a computer or telephone, you can ask to bring a friend or family member to go with you to provide extra help. You can bring up to two extra people. If you need further support, request this from the tribunal before the proceeding.

For tips and helpful resources on participating in a video proceeding, see Video proceedings.

Tribunals Ontario Phone Program

Tribunals Ontario has a phone program to help you attend your tribunal proceeding by telephone.

If you do not have access to a telephone or have a prepaid or pay as you go plan with limited airtime talk minutes, complete and submit an Accommodation Request Form .

If your request is approved, the tribunal can loan you a basic cell phone so you can call into your hearing by telephone. If you have a prepaid or pay as you go plan with limited airtime talk minutes, the tribunal can provide you with a top-up voucher to give you enough airtime minutes to take part in your hearing by telephone. This program is free and there is no cost to you.