The Different Types of

One source of confusion for people navigating family court is that there are different types of hearing, each with a different purpose, format and set of requirements. Knowing what kind of hearing you are attending, and what it is for, helps you prepare appropriately.

Directions hearings

Short administrative hearings to set the timetable and next steps for a case. The judge will not make substantive decisions, they will give directions about what documents to file, by when, and when the next hearing will be. These are usually brief, 15 to 30 minutes.

First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment (FHDRA)

The first hearing in children cases. The court tries to identify areas of agreement and dispute and explore whether the matter can be resolved without further proceedings. CAFCASS are usually involved.

First Appointment / First Directions Appointment (FDA)

The first hearing in financial remedy proceedings. The judge reviews disclosure and sets directions. Not a decision-making hearing.

Financial Dispute Resolution (FDR)

A settlement-focused hearing in financial remedy cases where the judge gives a non-binding indication of a fair outcome. Most financial cases settle at or around the FDR.

Contested hearings / Final Hearings

Full hearings where evidence is heard and decisions made. These are the most significant and most stressful hearings, the judge will make binding orders based on the evidence and arguments presented.

Financial proceedings hearings

In financial remedy proceedings there is a standard three-hearing process: the First Appointment (case management, 30 to 45 minutes), the Financial Dispute Resolution or FDR (without-prejudice negotiation, most cases settle here), and if needed the Final Hearing (judge hears full evidence and makes a binding order).

Children proceedings hearings

In private law children proceedings the process involves the First Hearing Dispute Resolution Appointment or FHDRA (the first hearing, CAFCASS will have completed safeguarding checks), a Dispute Resolution Appointment or DRA (to attempt to resolve remaining disputes), and if needed a Final Hearing where the judge makes a final order about the children's arrangements.