Family Arbitration Solicitors

Family Arbitration Solicitors

Wace Morgan offers an in-house arbitration service – an alternative way of resolving financial and family law disputes without going to court. Divorcing couples or anyone involved in a family law disagreement can use our qualified arbitrator, Robert Adams, to make a legally binding financial award instead of enduring a lengthy and costly court process.

Family law arbitration is a straightforward process for people wishing to reach a financial settlement. The first step is for both parties to agree on this path and nominate an arbitrator. Each party then presents a case to the arbitrator, who will adjudicate and make a legally-binding decision, known as an award.

Family law arbitration offers a number of benefits to divorcing couples:

  • Speed
    In contrast to court procedures, the arbitration timetable is agreed by the parties – subject to availability of the arbitrator – therefore nearly all cases are likely to be dealt with significantly faster.
  • Confidentiality
    The arbitration process is confidential. Unlike proceedings in a public court, details of the case can be kept between the two parties and their chosen arbitrator.
  • Costs
    In many cases arbitration will result in a cost saving, as the scope of the dispute can be limited, meaning huge saving in time and costs relating to litigation.
  • Flexibility
    The parties define the scope of the arbitration. For example, some may want all of their differences arbitrated whereas others will only want certain issues to be considered. There may also be flexibility as to the time and place of hearings.
  • Binding
    The arbitration award is binding and ratified by a court order. Only in exceptional circumstances will the court not approve the award.
  • Choice of arbitrator
    Divorcing couples never have the right to choose which judge will try their case in court, but they can choose their arbitrator. This ensures that their case is heard by a legal professional with the skills, experience and time to dedicate to their case, as well as meaning an element of uncertainty is removed from proceedings.

Our Arbitrator

Robert Adams, who heads our Family Finances and Mediation department, has qualified under the family law arbitration scheme which covers financial and property disputes arising from family relationships including divorce settlements, financial provision for children, property and inheritance issues. He is a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators.

Wace Morgan has one of the region’s largest family departments. If you require further information about the arbitration services, or wish to make an appointment, please contact Robert Adams on 01743 280 131 or email robert.adams@wmlaw.co.uk

N.B. Family Law Arbitration is not covered by the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

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