A network of experienced family law solicitors and barristers across England and Wales has been formed to improve public access to family law arbitration and aid effective private dispute resolution.
The Family Law Arbitrators Group (FLAG) is an affiliation of family law arbitrators throughout England and Wales. The new initiative aims to improve public access to family law arbitration while supporting legal practitioners.
FLAG founder Rebecca Hawkins, of Havant-based Family Solutions Now, explained: “Our objective is clear: to raise awareness, improve transparency, and make arbitration more accessible to those who could benefit from it.
“We all believe that arbitration should be a more mainstream option within the family justice system, not a niche remedy reserved for those in the know.”
The affiliation comprises Resolution members with expertise in supporting families. All members are qualified CIArb family law arbitrators who share a commitment to promoting high standards, improving visibility of the arbitration process, and offering practical resources for both the public and fellow professionals.
Together, they offer expertise across financial remedy and children cases as mediators, solicitors, barristers and judges.
Public education is a key priority, the group said, with many separating couples unaware they can appoint an arbitrator to make binding decisions outside of court. FLAG aims to produce accessible materials, FAQs and case studies that clearly set out the process and offer real-life illustrations to demystify the process.
Spokesperson Tony Roe of Dexter Montague LLP in Reading said: “Arbitration has offered an attractive alternative to the court for over a decade – particularly for separating families seeking timely, cost-effective and confidential resolution of financial or child-related issues.
“Yet, despite its benefits and established legal framework (with the UK often being referred to as the arbitration capital of the world), arbitration remains underused and, in some cases, poorly understood.
“It is not just the preserve of the rich and famous, who want to ensure privacy – arbitration is, as noted, a cost-effective way of helping couples move forward.”
Members will also support legal professionals to encourage clients into arbitration, and will build a network of trusted practitioners to share developments in case law and procedure and offer peer support.
Hawkins added: “We also recognise the need to ensure that arbitration remains inclusive and adaptable. Not all cases or clients will be suitable for arbitration – but many more could benefit than currently do.
“We are exploring how different models of arbitration, including using early neutral evaluation, streamlined hearings and mediation, might be tailored to better meet the needs of modern families.”
To join the group, visit www.theflagroup.co.uk.
