When a relationship breaks down, disputes about finances or children can add even more strain. Many people fear long and expensive court battles. The good news is that there are other ways to resolve disagreements — ways that can be quicker, less costly, and often less damaging to relationships.
At Gordons Partnership, we guide our clients through the different routes available. We explain your options clearly, help you weigh the pros and cons, and support you in finding a resolution that works for you and your family. Court is always there as a last resort, but in many cases it is possible to settle matters more constructively.
Family disputes are not just legal problems — they are personal ones. The way they are handled can affect children, future co-parenting, and your ability to move on. Court proceedings can sometimes be necessary, but they are often:
Dispute resolution methods outside court focus on reaching agreement rather than escalating conflict. They allow you more control over the outcome and can often preserve working relationships between parents or former partners.
Failure to consider non-court options can result in the court making cost orders against parties who unreasonably refuse to engage in them, even if they are otherwise successful in their case.
Some couples are able to sit down and agree on arrangements themselves. This can work where there is trust, communication and transparency of information. However, it may not be realistic in situations of conflict or imbalance of power. Even if you do agree, it is important to take legal advice to ensure the agreement is fair and can be made binding.
Mediation involves both parties meeting with a trained, neutral mediator. The mediator does not take sides or make decisions. Their role is to help you talk through issues and reach an agreement yourselves.
At Gordons Partnership, we regularly advise clients who are in mediation. We make sure any agreement is properly documented and legally secure.
Arbitration is a private court process where you and your former partner agree to appoint an independent arbitrator to make a decision.
Arbitration gives you more flexibility over timing and process compared with full court proceeding.
If direct discussion is not possible, your solicitor can negotiate on your behalf by letter, email, or phone, reducing the stress of direct contact with your former partner while ensuring you receive clear advice throughout the process.
Court should always be the last resort, but in some cases it is unavoidable — for example, where there is risk of harm, urgent protection is needed, or agreement cannot be reached. If court is necessary, we provide strong and effective representation to protect your interests.
We know every family is different. What works for one couple may not work for another. Our role is to:
We believe that avoiding unnecessary conflict is usually better for everyone. But when court action is necessary, we stand firmly in your corner.
In financial cases, both parties must provide full and frank disclosure of their assets and income. Once the information is shared, discussions can take place to try to reach a settlement.
We advise clients throughout this process, ensuring that disclosure is complete and that negotiations are fair.
Yes — at least to attend a MIAM before starting court proceedings. There are a set of exemptions that you may meet, meaning you are not required to attend mediation. If mediation is not suitable, you can proceed to court.
Yes. The arbitrator’s decision is legally binding, much like a court judgment.
Yes. With our help, agreements reached in mediation can be turned into a Consent Order approved by the court.
Negotiation and mediation rely on goodwill. If cooperation is not possible, court may be the only option.
That depends on the complexity of the issues and how quickly agreement is reached. Mediation and negotiation are generally cheaper than court.
If you need advice in relation to any family matter, please do not hesitate to contact our family team.
If you are facing a family dispute, we can help you explore your options and choose the right way forward. Whether through mediation, negotiation, or court, we will support you with clarity and care.
Gordons Partnership – clarity and confidence in legal advice, from people you can trust.
Call us on 01483 451900
Email Judith Fitton, Mark Studdart, Laura Cavannagh, Liberty Lawson to arrange a confidential conversation.
