Arbitration

What is family arbitration?

Family arbitration is a flexible and confidential way of resolving disputes arising from your family relationship.

You and your partner agree to appoint a fair and impartial arbitrator to determine the issues in dispute, perhaps rather than making an application to court.

Although arbitration is a voluntary process, once entered into you are guaranteed a binding decision at the conclusion of the arbitration.

Arbitration can be determined following a hearing before the arbitrator, or if the issues are suitable, on the papers alone. You can be represented throughout the arbitration process by a solicitor or barrister, although this is not a necessity.

What are the benefits?

Family arbitration is a highly flexible and effective method of dealing with family disputes, whether this is for the whole case or just one part of it. It is entirely confidential, saves time (there is no need to wait for a court date) and is tailor made to suit the needs of you and your partner.

Is arbitration right for me?

Arbitration can be quicker, cheaper and less formal than court proceedings. It can be used at any point in family litigation, whether that is before proceedings have begun or afterwards. It is a very effective way to resolve negotiations if they have stalled or if you want a more bespoke process then the court can offer.

How can we help?

Our arbitrator, Fiona Read is able to arbitrate in the following types of cases:

• internal relocation
• child arrangement orders, covering where children live and who they spend time with 
• holiday arrangements
• change of name issues
• education disputes
• prohibited steps and specific issue orders
• financial relief in divorce and dissolution cases
• financial relief following an overseas divorce (under Part lll of the Matrimonial Family Proceedings Act 1984)
• claims for financial provision for children covering both capital and income (Schedule 1 of the Children Act 1989)
• claims relating to interest in property, (Trust of Land & Trustee Act of 1996 and the Married Women's Property Act 1882)
• claims for financial provision following death (the Inheritance (Provision for Family & Dependents) Act 1975)

If you would like to speak with a member of the team you can contact our family law solicitors; Holborn office 020 3826 7526; Kingston office 020 3826 7527 or Putney office 020 3826 7520 or complete our enquiry form.