Family Law Arbitration
How we can help
If you need a binding decision on a family law dispute without going through the court system, owner and director, Pauline Purcell, can act as a Family Law Arbitrator for financial matters, and all of our solicitors can advise you in relation to family law arbitration and act in the proceedings.
Family arbitration allows you to have your dispute decided by a qualified Arbitrator of your choosing, rather than waiting for the court to determine the outcome. The Arbitrator is typically a senior family solicitor, barrister, or former judge specialising in the area your dispute concerns. Both parties agree in advance to be bound by their decision. That decision, known as an Award, is then converted into a court order, giving it full legal force.
Family arbitration can be used for both financial disputes and child matters. It is well suited to situations where negotiation or mediation has not produced an agreement and you want a definitive outcome without waiting months or years for a court date in particular, but not limited, to where the issues are narrowed. The process is private and flexible. Family arbitration is formally recognised under Part 3 of the Family Procedure Rules 2010 as a form of non-court dispute resolution, and courts will give effect to Awards made under the Institute of Family Law Arbitrators (IFLA) scheme.
At Purcell Solicitors, Pauline Purcell is a qualified Family Arbitrator in family law financial disputes with over 30 years of experience. She serves clients nationwide and has over 30 years of experience in complex divorce, financial settlement, and family law matters.
Why Us?
Why Choose Purcell Solicitors for Family Arbitration?
Pauline Purcell was among the first solicitors in this region to qualify as a Family Arbitrator. She understands the process from both sides: as an adviser preparing and presenting a case, and as the decision-maker. Few firms of our size can offer that depth of experience within the same team.
When a relationship has broken down, and agreement cannot be reached, what people often need most is a definitive answer. The court can provide it, but the wait can be long, and the process is expensive and stressful. Arbitration offers a faster route to a binding outcome, allowing you to choose your decision-maker, control the timetable, and keep the proceedings private.
To discuss family law arbitration, please get in touch on 01908 693000 or by filling in our contact form.
What we can offer
Our Family Law Arbitration
Purcell Solicitors can assist with family arbitration in the following ways:
- Advising you on whether arbitration is the right approach for your dispute and what to expect from the process.
- Drafting the agreement to arbitrate and agreeing the scope of the process with the other side.
- Preparing and presenting your case, including written submissions and supporting documents, and arranging representation before an arbitrator.
- Advising you on the award once it is made and what it means for your position going forward.
- Applying to the court to convert the award into a binding court order.
- Advising on financial disputes, including the division of assets, the family home, pensions and maintenance following divorce or separation.
- Advising on children matters, including arrangements for where children live, how time is divided, and specific decisions such as schooling or travel abroad.
- Pauline Purcell is also available, in suitable cases, to act as a qualified IFLA Family Arbitrator.
Who Are Purcell Solicitors?
We are a niche, specialist team of qualified Family Law Solicitors. Dedicated to using our specialised skillsets to support our clients through difficult periods in their lives. At any stage, the breakdown of a relationship is full of questions and challenges. The Purcell team provide a safe place where we can guide you through legal matters of finances, children’s welfare and separation.
Purcell Solicitors Other Services
Family Dispute Services
Our Family Law Services
Helping You Create A Family
Why Use Purcell Solicitors?
Specialists in complex matrimonial cases
Exclusively covering all areas of relationship breakdown including divorce, civil partnership dissolution and separation.
Experts in the field of Family Law
We deal with your unique circumstances with experience, empathy and efficiency.
Speak to us in confidence
Consultations at our Milton Keynes office, or remotely on zoom or teams.
Open communication and guidance
You will be assigned a legal specialist to find the most cost-effective, fair and lasting solutions for your situation.
Skilled in Dispute Resolution
We offer all alternatives to Court and work with you to find the best outcome for you and your family.
Friendly and supportive environment
We are on hand to alleviate your concerns and provide professional advice on your next steps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can arbitration be used for disputes about children?
Can I challenge an arbitration Award I disagree with?
How is arbitration different from mediation?
How long does family arbitration take?
How much does family arbitration cost?
Is an arbitration Award legally binding?
Is arbitration private?
What is family arbitration?