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0800 038 5828
A better way to resolve family disputes: family law arbitration
When family relationships change, resolving legal issues can feel overwhelming. Court proceedings are often slow, stressful, expensive and very public. Family law arbitration offers a faster, calmer and more controlled alternative—putting decisions about your future back into your hands.
What is family law arbitration?
Family law arbitration is a private process where you and your former partner agree to appoint a highly experienced family law specialist (the arbitrator) to make legally binding decisions about your case. In England and Wales, arbitration is carried out under the IFLA (Institute of Family Law Arbitrators) Scheme, which sets rigorous standards for training, independence and fairness.
Arbitration can be used to resolve financial matters following separation or divorce, including:
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Division of assets
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Property and pensions
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Maintenance and ongoing financial arrangements
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The arrangements for your children
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Cohabitation disputes
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Inheritance disputes
Once an agreement to arbitrate is signed, the arbitrator’s decision can be turned into a court order, giving you the same legal certainty—without the delays and uncertainty of court.
Why choose arbitration over court?
Faster results
Court timetables are often crowded, leading to long waits and repeated adjournments. Arbitration works around your availability, allowing disputes to be resolved in weeks or months, not years.
You choose the decision-maker
Instead of having a judge appointed on the day, you select your arbitrator—a senior family law expert with the right experience for your case. This expertise leads to focused, informed decision-making from the outset.
Less stress, more control
Arbitration is designed to be less confrontational than court proceedings. The process is flexible and tailored to your needs, helping clients feel heard and respected, rather than rushed or sidelined.
Confidential and private
Court hearings are increasingly open to press scrutiny. Arbitration is completely private and confidential, protecting your personal and financial information from public exposure.
Cost-effective in the long run
While arbitration involves paying the arbitrator’s fee, it often reduces overall legal costs by cutting delays, limiting correspondence, and avoiding multiple court hearings.
A clear, final outcome
The arbitrator’s decision is legally binding, providing clarity and finality so you can move forward with confidence.
Designed Around You
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Arbitration adapts to your life—not the other way around. Hearings can be:
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Held at a convenient location or online
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Scheduled around work and family commitments
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Focused on the specific issues that matter most
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This means less disruption, fewer surprises, and a process that feels manageable—not intimidating.
Is arbitration right for you?
Family law arbitration is particularly helpful if you:
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Want a quicker resolution
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Value privacy and discretion
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Need a specialist decision-maker
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Wish to avoid the stress of court
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Want certainty so you can plan your future
Not every case is suitable, but for many families it provides the most sensible, dignified path forward.
Talk to us about arbitration
We have extensive experience guiding clients through family law arbitration and will support you at every stage—from deciding whether arbitration is right for you to securing a final binding order. If you are looking for a faster, calmer and more private way to resolve your family law dispute, arbitration could be the solution.
📞 Contact us today for a confidential discussion.
Frequently asked questions
Your dispute doesn’t have to go to court. Ask Beckett Solicitors about family arbitration.
Freephone 0800 038 5828