From ADR to NCDR
Chambers has changed the name of the Family/Matrimonial: ADR to Family/Matrimonial: Non-Court Dispute Resolution to reflect changes in the market.
Key Changes Under the 2024 Family Procedure Rules
This area of Family law is becoming increasingly popular following last year’s revision of the Family Procedure Rules aimed at encouraging parties to consider non-court dispute resolution. The changes to the FPR, which came into effect on 29 April 2024, include the requirement for parties to submit a statement informing the court of their views on the use of NCDR in their case, an expansion of the definition of NCDR, the court will have the power to adjourn proceedings to allow time to explore and carry out NCDR and also financial penalties for parties who do not properly consider or engage in NCDR.
Chambers UK Bar Guide 2026 reflects this new focus with a 24 percent rise in the Family/Matrimonial: Non-Court Dispute Resolution rankings.
What the market says:
“We are noticing more people wanting to settle outside of the traditional court process which drives the need for more NCDR specialists.”
“There is strong push from the courts for NCDR.”
“The move to NCDR continues to gather pace. Private FDRs are now commonplace and court is now the last resort.”