Alternative & non-court dispute resolution ============================================== What is alternative dispute resolution? --------------------------------------- In addition to traditional court proceedings, there are alternative options for those working towards a financial settlement arising out of the divorce. Most couples would prefer to agree to a settlement without going through the courts to reduce costs and to try and reduce animosity. It is a popular misconception that solicitors wish to exacerbate such animosity for their own gain. In reality, the legal framework and legal professionals allow for and actively encourage non-court forms of dispute resolution. In short, reaching agreement away from the court is preferable and in fact, more usual. Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), also called Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR), encompasses a variety of options designed to resolve disputes - such as child arrangements or the division of assets upon separation - outside of the formal court system. Methods include [mediation](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/mediation), [arbitration](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/arbitration), [collaborative divorces](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/collaborative-divorce), [solicitor-led negotiations](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/solicitor-led-negotiation) and [round-table meetings](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/round-table-meetings). These vary in their degree of solicitor involvement, can allow a couple to divorce and resolve any issues without the need for court intervention. Ultimately, what is best will depend on one's individual circumstances. **If you're considering or going through a divorce and would like to explore alternative dispute resolution methods, we can help. Click below for a free initial consultation with one of our expert divorce solicitors.** [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact "BOOK FREE CONSULTATION") What are the benefits of adr/ncdr? ---------------------------------- In April 2024, the [Family Procedure (Amendment No 2) Rules](https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2023/1324/contents/made) introduced changes aimed at encouraging parties to make use of non-court-based dispute resolution to bring about an early resolution to family law matters that would otherwise go to court. There are many benefits to pursuing ADR over court proceedings. For example: > - **Speed and Cost**: In most cases, choosing ADR can provide a quicker response in accessing the support and advice needed, allowing you to move your life forward faster. Additionally, while paying privately for ADR will be subject to charges, it is likely to be significantly less overall than if the case was to go through the court system. > > - **Reducing Acrimony and Stress**: Generally, ADR can limit the hostility between the parties as both spouses are dedicated to finding a resolution by working together. Moreover, ADR can take place in a far more informal setting than court procedures, reducing stress and allow you and your spouse to move at your own pace - which can help to keep the process more amicable. I would also make clear how the process can be tailored to the parties' needs as opposed to court proceedings where they are far more prescriptive and rigid. > > - **Choice and Control**: In ADR, you will have more control over the decisions that are made as you will be part of every discussion, having input along the way instead of leaving the decision in the hands of the judge. Moreover, you will have the choice to choose the right method for you and choosing who represents you. *Vardags' team of top divorce lawyers delivers a bespoke legal service to HNW and UHNW individuals, their families, and businesses.* About Us -------- Ayesha VardagFounder & President "A DIVORCE LAWYER WIDELY REGARDED AS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BEST" The Metro Vardags offer a unique approach to the law, specially tailored to the needs of HNW individuals. We offer City-quality representation for your divorce and family law needs. Our lawyers come from the very best universities and receive the very best training - they are determined, diligent, and dedicated to getting the best outcome... [read more](https://vardags.com/about-us) [BOOK FREE CONSULTATION](https://vardags.com/contact) Related Guides -------------- [Arbitration](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/arbitration "Arbitration") [Collaborative Divorce](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/collaborative-divorce "Collaborative Divorce") [Mediation](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/mediation "Mediation") [Private Financial Dispute Resolutions (private FDRs)](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/guide-to-private-financial-dispute-resolutions "Private Financial Dispute Resolutions (private FDRs)") [Round Table Meetings: Resolving Disputes Out of Court](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/round-table-meetings "Round Table Meetings: Resolving Disputes Out of Court") [Solicitor-led negotiation](https://vardags.com/law-guide/financial-proceedings/solicitor-led-negotiation "Solicitor-led negotiation") The information on this website is intended as a guide and does not constitute legal advice. Vardags do not accept liability for any errors in the information on this website, nor any losses stemming from reliance upon the statements made herein. All articles and pages aim to reflect the legal position at time they were published, and may have been rendered obsolete by subsequent developments in the law. Should you require specialist advice, tailored to your situation, please see how Vardags can help you. What our clients say -------------------- Knowledgeable, respectful and empathetic service and team. Michelle Ravden The Vardags Teams are incredible! Mariette Terrisse Hilborne What sets Tatiana apart is her genuine compassion and dedication to her clients. She treated me with the utmost respect and kindness, making me feel valued and supported throughout the entire process. She is a true advocate and... an exceptional professional who will go above and beyond to fight for your rights and your family's well-being. Alexandra Gutina The Vardags team are exceptionally knowledgable and strategic but also, and most importantly, they are confident and reassuring in a time when one can feel most vulnerable. Robert Douge Vardags takes care to match the client to the solicitor. Within 2 months, Vardags got me everything I needed. I would not have the future I now have in front of me if it wasn't for Vardags. N Beresford-Tomlin I am so happy I got to make the call to Vardags first! Excellent service. Whole team of forensics that I would have been totally lost without. I really cannot thank you enough for a perfect outcome to a complicated and not easy... case. Your care throughout was amazing. Christina Wolff