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

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Hear what our clients say about us

Legal director Maxine Reid has substantial experience of complex financial matters.

Legal 500 2025 Private Client – Hereford

HCR Law has a national reputation for its work across an array of complex private children law matters, and for its representation of high-net-worth individuals in divorce and financial remedy cases.

Legal 500 2025 Private Client – Hereford

Thank you Amy, so much for your help, you have been very patient with me, advising me well and most of all being a listening ear. You have been such a blessing to me.

Client Testimonial Divorce Proceedings

I’d like to thank you for all your help and support given to me over the last few years. I cannot thank you enough for your true professionalism. I have felt that at every interaction we had that you really understood the impacts to me and my family personally.

You navigated me through a really challenging time at a pace that was right for me. It was hugely important that I had a settled family life, and that everyone was alright in the end and indeed we are!

 

Mrs F Financial settlement within divorce proceedings.

I just wanted to say a really big thank you for seeing me through the whole lengthy and tricky divorce process.

You were always there to answer my questions and listen to my ranting!

To have your consistency and steadiness was a huge support and I couldn’t have asked for more. Thank you for what you do!

Client Divorce proceedings

One of the most significant family teams in the South West and fast becoming the leading financial remedy solicitors in the region. Very accessible and client focused – real strength in depth.

Legal 500 2024 – Family

HCR should be considered as the go-to firm for family law issues in Hereford and Worcester. HCR’s reputation for quality is well known and well justified.

Legal 500 2024 – Family

The firm has a strong presence in Birmingham and in Worcester as well as their other locations across the UK.

Legal 500 2024 – Family

I recommend this firm to family and friends as I know that they will be supported and well-advised through difficult times. The firm stands out as a class above other firms.

 

Legal 500 2024 – Family

HCR Hewitsons is a multidisciplinary firm with very strong local foundations, as well as an important presence in London. Not every firm can offer the same breadth and reach that they can.

Legal 500 2024 – Family

HCR have a growing presence in Cambridge and have gone from a standing start of no permanent family lawyers to build a growing team.

Legal 500 2024 – Family

The firm is well known for providing sound family law advice and representation at the highest levels. A good quality firm.

 

Legal 500 2024 – Family

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