Private Financial Dispute Resolution

Private financial dispute resolution (“FDR”) can be used in cases for both married and unmarried couples. Often leading to high settlement rates, a privately instructed an family trained ‘judge’ will provide their view on issues in dispute which will be used to guide negotiations assisting couples to reach a resolution.

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How does private financial dispute resolution work?

If you’re in court proceedings, a private financial dispute resolution (FDR) hearing can replace part of the court process. You can also hold a private FDR if you aren’t in court proceedings but you have engaged with and completed the financial disclosure process with your partner.

Your case is presented in the same way as an FDR court hearing with the aim being to reach a settlement while narrowing the issues involved. The ‘judge’ will provide their view on your case, which couples use to guide negotiations.

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The benefits of financial dispute resolution (FDR)

In cases where court proceedings have already been issued, it can be arranged far more quickly than a hearing arranged by the court. The ‘judge’ will also have far more time to read your papers and consider matters carefully.

  • ‘Judges’ can be chosen based on experience, specialisms and availability
  • The ‘judge’ is available to assist all day rather than for a time-limited slot in court
  • Private financial dispute resolution hearings have high settlement rates.

For cases outside the court process, FDR can assist with settlement negotiations and avoid the cost of protracted court proceedings.

More information about Private FDR

Recognition of our work

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Legal 500 2026 – Top Tier Firm

Legal 500 2026 – Top Tier Firm

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Hear what our clients say about us

Victoria is a real force of nature and is regarded as a powerhouse in the financial remedy world.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Sally is excellent: she manages clients’ expectations and gives very good advice. She is also pragmatic with a keen eye on managing costs for the clients.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

I would highly recommend Richard Scott. He is professional, approachable and always seeks to achieve the best outcome for his clients.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

James was a really good communicator and we gelled well from the start. I found him really sympathetic to my situation.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

James is without exception a fine lawyer. He is determined, mindful of keeping costs to a minimum and brilliant at allaying any fears or concerns that arise.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Carolyn is probably the most experienced family finance solicitor in the South West.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Andrew is an excellent partner – hard-working and smart, and I felt like he genuinely cared about getting a result for me. He guided me well in very difficult times.

Client testimonial Chambers 2026

Special thanks to Shereen Chohan at family law. Such an amazing person who did tremendously well in my case. Highly recommended.

Client testimonial Family law

The feeling knowing I have stability back and can now rebuild mine and my daughter’s future is more than I can describe.

Client testimonial Family law

Richard Scott provides clear, thorough advice and is knowledgeable as to all aspects of family law work.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

I largely dealt with Danielle Bentley, who was the solicitor with conduct of my matter. The difference between her approach and others seems to be a focus on not only the legal requirements of my matter, but also a clear focus on practical consequences of decisions that were made during the case.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

The family department are one of the leading teams in the Thames Valley area. Both Kate Grant and Danielle Bentley are technically brilliant whilst all the time delivering sensible and pragmatic advice for their clients.

Client testimonial Legal 500 2026

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