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.

How much does it cost for a Private FDR?

The answer to this question is really dependent on the complexities of the case and who you instruct as a private FDR Judge. The more complex the issues, the more time is needed and the more experienced you would want the FDR Judge to be and therefore the more costly. Once we have an idea of the issues in your case we can provide full cost estimates before you commit to having a private FDR.

What if my former partner does not want to have a Private FDR?

Unfortunately, if this was the case, then you would not be able to proceed. For any negotiations to be successful both parties need to be committed to the process. Having a private FDR is an option that both parties need to agree to.

Talk to us to discuss your Private FDR options

If you are going through a separation or divorce and are considering the Private Financial Dispute Resolution course of action, or if you want to discuss your options confidentially with one of our experienced Family Lawyers, then please get in touch with our Leeds, Sheffield or York offices by calling us on 0330 404 6443, by emailing us or by filling in the enquiry form on this page and letting us know a suitable time to call you back. Our Family Solicitors act regularly for clients across the United Kingdom including Bradford, Birmingham, Hull, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Sheffield, York and Nottingham.  We can support your needs wherever you live in England, Wales & Northern Ireland.

For a no obligation initial consultation please either call the office or leave your details using the contact form at the top of this page.  We’ll be happy to help.