Family Dispute Resolution

Dispute Resolution (‘DR’) allows parties to retain control of the process of their family law dispute and arrive at an outcome which is acceptable to them both, limiting both costs and delays. DR can be supplementary to court proceedings or, in many cases, a complete alternative. It is often far more cost-effective than continuing to a final hearing at Court and can provide a very early resolution, even before proceedings have begun.

One major difficulty for parties seeking a resolution often lies in knowing what is “fair”. Acting as an independent expert, listening carefully to each side, one of our experienced practitioners can guide them through the process and either advise as to what is fair and suggest creative, practical solutions to hitherto intractable problems or, in the case of an arbitration, determine the matters in issue.

St Ives Chambers is at the forefront of Dispute Resolution in the Midlands and can offer a diverse roster of practitioners. All have many years of experience in advising and representing parties in family matters, whether Financial Remedies and/or Children Act cases. We are also able to offer both leading and junior counsel who are fully trained Arbitrators. We believe we offer one of the largest and most experienced Dispute Resolution teams in the country.

At St Ives, we are able to host all parties in our Arbitration / Dispute Resolution Suite, consisting of several specially designed rooms and a break-out area.  Our barristers are also willing to travel to another suitable venue of the parties’ choosing. We are able to conduct hearings remotely, by telephone or video-link, if that is required, which is likely to be of particular assistance in cases with international issues.

In light of the current pressures within the court system, the ability to deal with cases remotely and quickly, on a date agreed between the parties and before a tribunal chosen by them, is more valuable than ever.