Family: Alternative Dispute Resolution

ADR in all its forms is particularly relevant now. The backlog of cases in the Court system and the increased cost of litigation means that there has never been a greater need for fast, efficient and cost-effective alternative means to resolve disputes. PLP ADR does this by making a positive difference for its clients – working in partnership, listening and hearing what clients are looking for so that they can deliver tailored, expert advice and advocacy.

The PLP ADR Team provides services relating to mediations, expert determinations and early neutral evaluations whether by way of conducting the process or appearing as advocates.

Each of the members is an individual expert in their own field and they are more than happy to take the time for a quick chat with clients (off the clock) to help clarify the initial direction of travel and resolution options available.

Members of the Team are happy to have an informal chat to clarify your thoughts and bounce some ideas around, then the team are available either directly or through the excellent Clerking Team.

We also offer a competitive drafting service for solicitors. This ensures the final documentation as part of the compromise or determination is comprehensive and structured to avoid future problems.

If you would like to discuss your case and the most appropriate form of ADR for your client then contact one of the ADR Team or our experienced Clerks for an informal discussion on your options for effective resolution.

Private FDRs: these can be provided either remotely or in Chambers. The private FDR will take place in comfortable surroundings conducive to reaching a settlement. Remote FDRs can be arranged using whichever conferencing platform works best for you, including Zoom and Skype for Business. Private FDRs can often be more cost effective than court proceedings.

For cases involving cohabitees or other family property disputes a “chancery” FDR may be appropriate.

Members of the Finance and Property Group represent clients at private FDRs and a number of members of the Group with specialist knowledge and experience accept instructions to conduct private FDRs.

Mediation: mediation involving a civil mediator is often a very useful method of resolving family property disputes. Members of the group have specific experience in civil mediation. A number of members of the Team are qualified mediators.

Arbitration: where it is not possible to reach an agreement, a further option available to clients is arbitration. Members of the group accept instructions to represent clients at arbitrations including both finance & property disputes and children matters. Elizabeth Darlington is a qualified Arbitrator.

Parklane Plowden Chambers has spacious premises in both Leeds and Newcastle and is ideally placed to host both Private FDRs, mediation and arbitrations.  Refreshments are provided and every effort made to ensure the comfort of those involved. Facilities for conducting ADR remotely are also available.

Members of the Family Team are happy to work flexibly and outside traditional office hours, by agreement.

For details as to what type of ADR is best for you and the services that Chambers offers, please contact Mark Williams on 0113 228 5043 or mark.williams@parklaneplowden.co.uk who will be happy to assist.

Fees

Fees can be discussed prior to the commencement of work. Value for money is assured as fees for each case can be assessed individually and are based upon the complexity and value of the case, seniority of counsel and time spent in preparation.