If an agreement can be reached either through negotiations or mediation, we simply draft a Consent Order, and this is lodged with the Court for the Judge to seal.
If, however, an agreement cannot be reached, then an application is filed with the Court, and the following procedure is followed:
One party will issue an application setting out the orders sought, and the Court will then allocate the case a hearing date. Prior to the first hearing, disclosure of finances will be ordered through a strict timetable set by the Court. Disclosure will take place through the completion of a ‘Form E’ by each party. If further questions arise from the disclosure, then a question is served on the party prior to the first hearing (First Appointment) with a Chronology, Statement of Issues and a Costs form. If full disclosure has occurred, then the matter can be heard as a First Dispute Resolution Appointment FDR – allowing the parties to spend as much time as possible at Court to negotiate a settlement.
At this hearing, the Judge ensure that all documentation has been completed properly, considers the questionnaires and sets a strict timetable for further disclosure if necessary so that the next hearing can be utilised efficiently to negotiate a settlement.
Prior to this hearing, both parties would have followed the directions ordered at the previous hearing meaning that full disclosure has taken place. Offers of settlement should also have been exchanged. At the hearing, the Judge gives an indication as to how matters may be settled and that allows as much time as needed to negotiate a settlement between barristers acting for both parties. The same Judge cannot preside over the final hearing as he/she would have been privy to the negotiations.
At the final hearing, both parties will give evidence with any valuers, and the District Judge will then make a decision. These hearings are costly and stressful and should be avoided if at all possible.
For more information, please get in touch with us by using info@shortlands.co.uk or call us 02076299905 or book an initial online consultation.
Shortlands is a boutique family law firm with over 20 years of experience in dealing with the trials and tribulations of a divorce and all family law matters. As a result, we have become the first choice of family law specialists in London.
Our professional and highly experienced team of family lawyers can assist you in your legal matters with full respect, ensuring you maintain a private family life. For more extensive advice and information, please email info@shortlands.co.uk or call us 02076299905 or book an initial online consultation.
There are a wide range of claims that can be made depending on your circumstances.
Please see Your Rights.
If matters can be agreed than the agreement is filed with the court after the pronouncement of the Decree Nisi.
If matters proceed to court then matters could take six months to a year to settle.
If you do not have an income than an application for interim maintenance can be made seeking a monthly sum to cover utilities and urgent living expenses as well as fees. The amount received depends on the other party’s income.
Absolutely. Full and frank disclosure is sought before any settlement is reached. See Hidden Assets & Disclosure.
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