Family disputes are often emotional, complex, and costly. Traditionally, courts have been the default path for resolving issues arising from a divorce or separation, such as financial settlements, and child arrangements. However, there has been clear trend throughout 2025 and beyond to encourage alternatives to court proceedings, known collectively as Non-Court Dispute Resolution (NCDR) or Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR).

At Lewis Denley, our family law team are experienced in guiding clients through these alternative pathways, helping them achieve fair and timely resolutions while reducing stress, cost, and confrontation.

What are non-court dispute resolution options?

NCDR encompasses several methods of resolving family disputes without the need for full court hearings. The most common approaches include:

Mediation

Mediation involves an independent, neutral mediator who facilitates discussions between parties to reach a mutually acceptable agreement. Mediation is often quicker, less formal, and allows families to maintain greater control over the outcome.

Arbitration

Arbitration is a more formal process, where an arbitrator, similar to a judge, makes a binding decision on specific disputes. This can be particularly useful for financial or property matters where parties want speed and certainty but prefer to avoid court.

Early Neutral Evaluation

This involves a neutral expert assessing the merits of a case early on and providing an objective opinion. It helps parties understand the strengths and weaknesses of their positions, which can encourage settlement before court proceedings escalate.

Why use non-court dispute resolution?

Courts are increasingly supportive of ADR and may even expect parties to engage in these methods before litigation. There are several reasons for this shift:

• Cost efficiency: Court proceedings can be expensive. ADR often reduces legal fees and associated costs.
• Time-saving: ADR methods can resolve disputes far faster than traditional litigation.
• Reduced stress: Emotional and adversarial strain is often lessened when parties negotiate collaboratively or with a mediator.
• Tailored solutions: ADR allows parties to create flexible, bespoke agreements that courts may not be able to provide.

How Lewis Denley can help

Our family law solicitors are fully trained and experienced in  advising and assisting clients with ADR methods. We help clients:

• Understand which ADR option is best suited to their circumstances
• Prepare for sessions or negotiations with clarity and confidence
• Achieve resolutions outside court wherever possible, saving time, money, and emotional strain
• Navigate complex financial or child arrangement matters in a cooperative and constructive way

Tips for clients: Engaging in ADR early can make a significant difference. Even if the dispute later proceeds to court, demonstrating a willingness to use ADR is viewed positively by judges and can influence costs decisions.

Non-Court Dispute Resolution is no longer just an alternative, it is becoming the preferred pathway for modern family law disputes. By exploring mediation, arbitration, or early neutral evaluation early, clients can achieve fair outcomes efficiently, without the stress of lengthy court battles.

At Lewis Denley, we are committed to guiding families through these processes, ensuring you feel supported, informed, and confident every step of the way.

Get in touch today to find out how our ADR-capable team can help you resolve your family law matter smoothly and efficiently.