Changes To The Family Procedure Rules
Parts 3 and 28 of the Family Procedure Rules have been amended to encourage the use of non-court dispute resolution. The changes include:
- a requirement that the parties file and serve a Form FM5 Statement of Position on Non-court Dispute Resolution before the first hearing;
- the court can require the parties to file and serve updated FM5 forms at other points in the proceedings;
- the court can adjourn or delay the case to ensure time for other forms of dispute resolution to take place; and
- costs consequences if parties refuse to engage in a dispute resolution process.
The Financial Remedy and Private Child Arrangements guides include Settling the matter folders, containing comprehensive guidance and precedents to enable swift and satisfactory out-of-court settlement.
