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Faster financial remedy process now available for lower-asset divorce cases

Dividing finances during divorce is often one of the most stressful and drawn-out parts of the process, particularly when the assets involved are modest and the legal fees risk outweighing what is at stake.

However, a new pilot scheme could help change that.

As of 7 April 2025, a new ‘express’ financial remedy procedure is being piloted in selected courts across the country.

The aim is to reduce delays, streamline the process, and help separating couples with limited means reach fairer, faster outcomes.

What is the express financial remedy procedure?

This new approach is designed for cases where the net assets (excluding pensions) are worth approximately £250,000 or less.

It applies to contested financial remedy proceedings only not to Schedule 1 to the Children Act 1989, Part III or variation applications.

The traditional three-stage process has been compressed into a two-hearing format:

A financial dispute resolution hearing (FDR) is scheduled 16-20 weeks after the application (Form A) is issued
A final hearing is listed for 26-36 weeks after issue
Both dates are fixed when the application is made, giving parties a clear roadmap from the outset.

Opportunity to speed up divorce proceedings

The new procedure is more intensive up front.

Financial disclosure, property valuations, and mortgage capacity information must all be exchanged within a tight timetable, but this creates an opportunity to focus efforts early and reach settlement quicker.

For many couples with more limited assets, it means:

Shorter waiting times
Lower legal costs
A clear structure from the outset
Less emotional and financial strain

Where is the scheme available?

The express procedure is being piloted in several regions across England and Wales:

Cheshire and Merseyside
Cleveland, Newcastle and Durham
Greater Manchester
Lancashire and Cumbria
North and West Yorkshire
West Midlands

It is only available where the application is issued in one of the participating courts, and where the case meets the qualifying criteria.

While the scheme is not yet running nationwide, it signals a change in approach, and if successful, could be rolled out more widely in future.

What should you do if you think you might qualify?

If you are going through a divorce and believe your case might fall within the scope of the new scheme, early legal advice is key.

The process is faster, but it also demands greater upfront preparation, and having the right support can make all the difference.

To find out whether your case is eligible and how the express procedure could work for you, speak with our solicitors today.

Stuart Daniel

Director – Head of Family Department

I qualified as a Solicitor in 2006 and now specialise in divorce, financial settlements, childcare arrangements and Pre Nuptial Agreements. I have many years’ experience as a private family lawyer having worked with two other local firms before returning to Mander Hadley, where I first undertook work experience during my university studies.