What are the advantages of a private financial dispute resolution hearing?

1) Speed – A private FDR is not subject to the court’s availability and can usually be arranged within a matter of weeks rather than months as soon as the required evidence is in place. 

2) Convenience and Choice – The hearing can take place on a date and time convenient to the parties. The parties can choose their own judge (usually a senior barrister or retired judge), which means that if there is an aspect of the case that would be aided by a judge with particular expertise, the parties can select such an individual.

3) Preparation – The private FDR judge will be given ample time to read all the papers, understand the issues and fully prepare for the hearing. Given the pressures on the court system, this is not always the case with a court FDR.