For many people, obtaining a financial settlement on divorce is often an overwhelming, lengthy and costly process, though a legally binding court order is essential to prevent any future financial claims against your assets and future wealth.

Court is traditionally seen as the only pathway for resolving financial settlements, but a Private Financial Dispute Resolution (pFDR) can offer a much more efficient, effective and constructive route in a less adversarial setting.

Baker Law
Marianne Tyndall, Partner & Head of Family (Baker Law )

A pFDR is a voluntary hearing, agreed by the parties, that is reflective of the court-based FDR hearing. A barrister or retired judge is jointly instructed to review each spouse’s financial disclosure and hear their respective positions to give an impartial indication as to a fair and reasonable outcome to aid negotiations and ultimately settlement.

Quick Listing: A pFDR can be scheduled quickly avoiding months of delays associated with court hearings.

Flexibility, Collaboration & Control: The parties have the freedom to agree an appropriate date and time and the pFDR is often conducted in barristers’ chambers, offering a calmer, more collaborative and controlled environment.

Increased Time: A pFDR is listed for the whole day, rather than being slotted into a busy court schedule, increasing negotiation time.

Cost-Effectiveness: Although a pFDR incurs Private Judge fees, it can reduce costs by achieving settlement or narrowing the issues before a Final Hearing.

If you are seeking legal advice in relation to a divorce, or financial arrangements, please contact us at Baker Law on 01252 733770, or send us an email at [email protected].