Private FDRs: Private Financial Dispute Resolution Hearings

Financial Dispute Resolution Hearings (FDR’s) are an important stage in most court proceedings where divorcing couples are trying to negotiate the division of their property and finances and reach a financial settlement and it is now becoming increasingly popular to have a private FDR.

At an FDR hearing a Judge hears legal arguments from both the husband’s and the wife’s legal representatives and then give an indication on how they think the dispute should be resolved. The hope is that this indication from the Judge will help facilitate the parties reaching an agreement, failing which the matter is listed for a further court hearing at which point a Judge will make a final decision.

FDR’s are often very effective in helping parties reach an agreed settlement but there are ever increasing court delays and pressures on the courts can lead to inadequate time for Judges to read the case papers and provide the detailed input that they would wish to provide. This has resulted in a rise in the popularity of Private FDR’s.

Private FDR’s are where an experienced family law professional is invited to take the role of the family court judge, but outside of the family court proceedings. The private FDR takes place at a time convenient to both parties and appropriate time is allocated, depending on the complexities of the case, to allow for the best opportunity of the parties reaching a settlement. The private FDR usually takes place in the comfort of a solicitor’s or barrister’s offices as opposed to the often less comfortable court facilities.

Our team of experienced family solicitors can advise you on whether a private FDR is a good option for you and provide advice and representation at a private FDR.