Family law glossary - F

FDR     

The financial dispute resolution hearing is the second court hearing relating to finances. The judge considers the offers made and makes a view about the likely outcome of the case. The judge cannot impose a decision on the parties. If the case cannot be settled a final hearing will be allocated.

Filing   

The process of delivering documents to the court.

First appointment         

The first court hearing relating to finances. The judge will look at the documents and give directions about what information should be provided by the parties, and the timescales for providing the information. The date for FDR (above) will also be fixed.

Form A

The application which starts proceedings for financial relief upon divorce. The form must be filed at court with the relevant fee.

Form E

A financial statement setting out each party’s financial information. The form will have copies of documents attached to it. Both parties will exchange copies of their Form Es with each other at the same time. The original documents are sent to court.

Form H

A schedule of legal costs incurred by each party in applications for financial relief. All figures shown will be inclusive of VAT.

Freezing order  

An interim court order preventing a party from disposing of assets or removing assets from the country.