What can be done to level up the delivery of family justice?

16 May 2022

Edward Cooke’s piece for The Law Society Gazette explores the reasons increasing numbers of people are turning to private judges or arbitrators to help resolve disputes, through private financial dispute resolution hearings (FDRs) and arbitration.

While feedback on both the experience of all parties and the average time taken to resolve disputes is positive, this trend also shines a light on the challenges the justice system is facing. Edward voices concern about the current record court delays, the impact of unfilled family judge vacancies and the possible emergence of a two-tier family justice system.

Edward offers suggestions on what can be done to level up the delivery of family justice.