Human Rights Tribunal Forms and Processes Get a Makeover

As of June 2025, the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario (HRTO) has implemented several procedural changes. Below is a summary of the most significant changes.

Mandatory Mediation for New Applications (Effective June 1, 2025)

Prior to June 1, 2025, mediation at the Tribunal was optional.  All new applications filed with the HRTO filed after that date will will automatically proceed to mediation before going to a hearing. This mandatory step aims to resolve disputes more efficiently and reduce the Tribunal’s caseload through early resolution.

Updated Forms (Effective June 15, 2025)

The HRTO has revised several of its forms. As of June 15, 2025, older form versions will no longer be accepted, including the Application (Form 1); the Response (Form 2); and the Application on Behalf of Another Person (Form 1G).

New Process for Rescheduling,  Adjourning or Extensions (Effective June 1, 2025)

The HRTO has also recently changed how parties request changes to scheduled mediations, hearings, or other adjudicated events. Previously, parties could simply email the Registrar and involved parties for a request for an adjournment or extension.  Now, the process includes the mandatory use of Form 10 to request a rescheduling, adjournment or extension request.  In addition, requests made more than 14 days after the notice of the scheduled event will be treated as adjournment requests, subject to stricter review and additional considerations by the Tribunal.

No Facsimile or In-Person Documents

Although in practice since March 2020, the HRTO has now formally updated its rules to confirm that it no longer accepts documents by fax or in-person. All filings must be made electronically.

Parting Thoughts

The recent changes reflect the HRTO’s ongoing effort to modernize its processes, improve efficiency, and encourage early resolution of human rights disputes. Given the changes, applicants and respondents must ensure they are using the most up-to-date mandatory forms.  In addition, employers and other respondents should treat mediation preparation and attendance as a routine cost in any human rights application before the Tribunal.

For the most recent forms and practice directions, visit the HRTO's website.

If you have questions about how these changes may impact your case or your clients, please reach out to Deborah Howden or your Shibley Righton lawyer.