A surprising silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic was how families found alternatives to resolve disputes when courts were closed. This shift has shown that there are faster, less stressful, and more cost-effective ways to address family law matters. With the holiday season approaching, let’s explore why this change matters and how it may shape the future of resolving family disputes.
Why Court Alternatives Work
During the pandemic, delays in the judicial system left many families stuck in limbo. Instead of waiting, they turned to Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR) options like mediation and Private Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR). These approaches allowed families to take control of their issues while avoiding the financial and emotional toll of courtroom battles.
What Is a Private FDR?
A Private FDR is an alternative to an in-court financial dispute resolution hearing. A qualified expert—typically a retired judge or senior lawyer—acts as a private “judge” to help resolve financial disputes. The process is informal, faster, and provides dedicated time for the parties to reach a fair resolution.
The Benefits of Private FDR
- Faster Results: Resolve disputes quickly without waiting for court availability.
- Cost-Effective: Save on legal fees and minimize prolonged litigation expenses.
- Privacy: Keep sensitive details out of the public domain.
- Expert Guidance: Benefit from experienced professionals offering tailored solutions.
- Child-Focused Outcomes: Prioritize the well-being of children by reducing conflict.
A Look to the Future
As highlighted in recent legal reforms like the Family Procedure (Amendment No 2) Rules 2023, there’s an increasing focus on NCDR. These changes empower judges to recommend alternatives to litigation, ensuring families can achieve resolutions faster and with less animosity.
Let Us Help You Take the First Step
We’re committed to offering practical, effective solutions for financial disputes. Our experienced team can guide you through the process, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcome without the need for prolonged court battles.
We streamline the financial evaluation process, providing you with early insights based on a Judge’s opinion. This helps you understand how your assets might be divided and plan your next steps. Our experienced panel of Judges and solicitors at Paradigm Family law are here to guide you through the intricacies of financial resolution in family law
Contact us today to learn more about our fixed-fee service and how we simplify the divorce process for you. Feel free to give us a call on +44 (0)20 3951 0212 or email hello@whatwouldajudgesay.com or use get started to share your unique situation.