Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA)

What is a DRA?

The Dispute Resolution Appointment is a hearing in private children law proceedings. It typically takes place after the FHDRA when:

• No agreement was reached at the first hearing, and
• A Section 7 welfare report has been prepared by Cafcass

Its purpose is to give the parties one more structured opportunity to settle before the case goes to a final hearing.

When does a DRA happen?

The court lists a DRA after the Section 7 report (or other directed evidence) has been filed. The timetable is set at the FHDRA — typically the DRA is listed a few weeks after the Section 7 report deadline, giving both parties time to read it and consider its recommendations.

Not every case has a DRA. In straightforward cases, the court may go directly from FHDRA to final hearing, or may deal with matters at a single hearing. In more complex cases, there may be additional hearings before the DRA.

What happens at the DRA

Before the hearing

Both parties (and their solicitors if they have them) will typically have an opportunity to discuss the Section 7 report and whether its recommendations can form the basis of an agreement — sometimes in the corridor, sometimes through shuttle negotiation organised by the court.

At the hearing

The judge will:

• Confirm what issues remain in dispute
• Consider the Section 7 report and any responses filed
• Explore whether the parties can reach agreement
• Give their view on what outcome the evidence supports (without making a final decision)

The judge’s indication of what they think is fair, in light of the evidence, often focuses minds and leads to settlement.

If agreement is reached

The judge records the agreed arrangements as a Child Arrangements Order (or other appropriate order). The case ends — no final hearing is needed.

If no agreement is reached

The judge gives directions for a final hearing, including:

• The date and estimated length of the final hearing
• What evidence each party must file (witness statements, documents)
• Whether the Cafcass officer will give oral evidence
• Any other steps to be taken before the final hearing

How to prepare

Read the Section 7 report carefully

The report is the central document at the DRA. Read it thoroughly before the hearing. Note:

• What the Cafcass officer recommends and why
• Anything you disagree with
• Whether you can accept the recommendations

File a response if appropriate

Many courts allow parties to file a short written response to the Section 7 report before the DRA. Use this to set out your position clearly — particularly if you disagree with the recommendations.

Think realistically about settlement

The DRA is your last realistic opportunity to settle without a contested final hearing. A final hearing is stressful, expensive, and uncertain. If the Cafcass recommendations are broadly reasonable, seriously consider whether agreement is better than fighting on.

Prepare your position statement

A short position statement setting out what you want and why is useful, particularly if you’re representing yourself.