Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA) — What to Expect

Plain‑English Briefing – Attending a Dispute Resolution Appointment (DRA) in the Family Court

*(Remember: this is general information only. For advice that fits your exact situation, please speak to a solicitor, mediator, or a Citizens Advice adviser.)*

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1. What a DRA Is

• When it happens – After the court has ordered a CAFCASS Section 7 report (the welfare report about the children) and that report has been filed.
• Why it’s held – The judge wants to see if the case can be settled, or at least have the remaining disagreements narrowed down, before a final hearing is set.
• What the judge will do – Listen to both sides, look at the CAFCASS report, and ask questions to understand where you agree and where you still differ. The goal is to reach an agreement or to identify the exact issues that still need a decision.

2. What to Bring to the DRA

| Item | Why it helps |

|------|--------------|

| Copy of the CAFCASS Section 7 report | You’ll need to refer to it when you talk about the recommendations. |

| Your position statement (a short written summary of what you want and why) | Gives the judge a clear picture of your stance. |

| Any updated evidence (e.g., recent emails, text messages, school reports, medical notes, photographs) that shows a change since the report was written | Helps you explain why you might disagree with parts of the report. |

| Notes on the CAFCASS recommendations (what you agree with, what you don’t, and why) | Makes it easier to answer the judge’s questions. |

| A pen and paper (or a device) for taking notes during the appointment | You may want to jot down any new directions or orders the judge gives. |

*Tip:* Keep everything organised in a folder or envelope so you can find things quickly.

3. How to Engage with the CAFCASS Recommendations

1. Read the report carefully before the appointment. Highlight the parts the CAFCASS officer recommends (e.g., living arrangements, contact time, specific issues like schooling or health).

2. Identify what you agree with – Note those points; you can tell the judge you’re happy to follow them.

3. Identify what you disagree with – For each point you don’t accept, write a brief reason (e.g., “The report says the child should spend every weekend with the other parent, but the child’s school schedule makes that impossible”).

4. Stay calm and focused – When you speak, refer to your notes, keep to the facts, and avoid personal attacks. The judge is interested in the child’s welfare, not in who is “right” or “wrong.”

5. Listen to the other side – The judge may ask you to respond to what the other parent says. Take a moment, then answer based on your notes and evidence.

4. What Orders Can Follow a DRA

• Consent order – If you and the other parent reach agreement during the DRA, the judge can turn that agreement into a formal court order right away.
• Directions for further steps – The judge may order:

* a further CAFCASS update (e.g., a Section 7 add‑on report),

* mediation or a parenting programme,

* exchange of additional evidence,

* a timetable for filing updated position statements, or

* a date for a final hearing if issues remain unresolved.

• Interim (temporary) order – If the judge thinks a temporary arrangement is needed while more information is gathered, they can make a short‑term order about where the child lives or contact arrangements.
• No order – Sometimes the judge will simply note that the case is not ready to settle and set a date for a final hearing.

5. Preparing If You Disagree with the CAFCASS Report

1. Gather concrete evidence that supports your view (e.g., a letter from the child’s teacher showing the child’s routine, a medical note, a calendar of contact times).

2. Write a short, clear response (often called a “response to the CAFCASS report”) that:

* Summarises the points you accept,

* Lists each point you disagree with,

* Gives the reason why, and

* Refers to any attached evidence.

3. Practice explaining your concerns in plain language – think of how you would explain it to a friend who knows nothing about the case.

4. Consider mediation – If the disagreement is mainly about contact or living arrangements, a mediator can help you find a compromise before the judge has to decide.

5. Stay child‑focused – When you talk about why you disagree, keep the emphasis on what you believe is best for the child’s welfare, not on personal grievances with the other parent.

6. Final Reminders

• Be punctual – Arrive a few minutes early; the court may run on a tight schedule.
• Dress neatly – Smart‑casual is fine; you don’t need formal wear, but looking respectful helps.
• Speak clearly and calmly – If you feel nervous, take a breath before you answer.
• Ask for clarification – If you don’t understand a question or a direction from the judge, it’s perfectly okay to say, “Could you please repeat that?” or “I’m not sure I understand—could you explain?”
• Take notes – Write down any orders, dates, or actions the judge tells you to do.
• After the DRA – Follow any directions promptly (file documents, attend mediation, etc.). If you’re unsure what to do next, seek advice from a solicitor, a legal advice clinic, or a Citizens Advice bureau.

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You’ve got this. The DRA is a chance to move things forward, either by reaching agreement or by clarifying exactly what still needs a decision. Stay organised, focus on the child’s best interests, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Good luck!