What the FHDRA Is
The First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment is exactly what it sounds like -- the first hearing in child arrangements proceedings, with a focus on resolving the dispute. It is listed within four to eight weeks of the C100 application being issued by the court.
Who Will Be There
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The judge or magistrates, both parties (or their legal representatives), and the CAFCASS officer who conducted the safeguarding checks. The hearing takes place in a courtroom but the atmosphere is often relatively informal compared to other hearings.
What the Judge Will Do
The judge will have read the C100 application, any response from the respondent, and the CAFCASS safeguarding letter. The hearing will focus on: identifying what the parties agree on and what they disagree on, exploring whether agreement can be reached, and if not, giving directions for the next steps in the proceedings.
If You Can Reach Agreement
If both parties can agree on the child arrangements at or before the FHDRA, the judge can make a consent order recording the agreement. This ends the proceedings. A consent order is legally binding and enforceable. Reaching agreement at the FHDRA is almost always the best outcome.
Your Position Statement
File a position statement at court and serve it on the other party at least 24 hours before the hearing. The position statement sets out your current position on the issues -- what you agree with, what you disagree with, and what order you are asking the court to make. Keep it focused and factual.
On the Day
Arrive at least 30 minutes early. Check in at the court office. Speak to the CAFCASS officer before the hearing if possible -- they are usually available in the waiting area. Dress smartly. Address the judge as "Your Honour" (circuit judge) or "Sir" or "Madam" (magistrates or district judge).