Family dispute resolution – alternatives to court
The majority of disputes … are capable of consensual settlement… all cases which can be settled should be settled.
The majority of disputes … are capable of consensual settlement… all cases which can be settled should be settled.
We take a solution-based approach to family law issues. Our team is committed to providing clients with an unparalleled service in a compassionate, professional and cost-effective manner. This ethos has placed us at the forefront of pioneering options for resolving family disputes outside the court arena.
The breakdown of a relationship is never easy and confrontation over the terms of the separation will make things even more difficult. Our family dispute resolution team, which is based in London, Oxford, Reading and Guildford, offers mediation, arbitration and collaborative law. Where possible, we will assist in resolving differences through discussion and agreement rather than using the court process. We are able to support both domestic and international clients remotely via video call.
In mediation, a couple will meet together with a specialist neutral mediator or mediators who will facilitate a dialogue between them, help break any impasse and seek solutions tailored to meet both the clients’ needs and those of any children.
With collaborative practice, a couple will each instruct a specialist collaborative lawyer and they will all commit to work together to arrive at fair solutions often with input from other family professionals.
In arbitration, a separating couple agree to side-step the court process and be bound by the decision of a neutral arbitrator. The parties enter into an agreement under which they appoint a suitably qualified arbitrator to adjudicate and make an award.
A compulsory timetable for dealing with money or children issues will be set in court-based litigation. Negotiation is encouraged but, in the absence of agreement, the court will impose an outcome. The final option is for couples with complex financial issues to engage an expert family lawyer to conduct a private financial dispute resolution appointment (FDR), during the court process.
We offer an online system that can help our clients to understand their legal position, prepare for their first meeting, and provide us with the information required to maximise the value we can deliver. We invite you to get started online.
Helping draw up a robust parenting plan and financial agreement for a London-based couple, enabling them to reach solutions that worked for their family in a shorter timescale and at less expense than through the courts.
Arranging a private dispute resolution hearing for a City financier to allow a negotiated settlement to be reached sooner than would have been possible through the court, resulting in a considerable cost saving for the family.
Representing a City lawyer in a collaborative case which was resolved within four months. A full and binding agreement was reached in relation to the finances, residence and contact with the children.
Ten tips for advising clients alongside mediation
How mediation can help resolve specific issues relating to children
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Penningtons Manches Cooper LLP is a limited liability partnership registered in England and Wales with registered number OC311575 and is authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority under number 419867.
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