Written by Lekisha Lindo.

Today I had the experience of attending my first court hearing, a Directions Court hearing at the Milton Keynes County Court. This case involved a couple navigating through their Financial Consent Order.

The couple appeared before Deputy District Judge J Nahal-Macdonald, with a draft Order 2.1 Financial Remedy order that they hoped the court would approve with the anticipation that they would be able to move on with their lives.

As the proceedings began, the judge reviewed the draft order and it was evident that both parties had worked together to reach a fair settlement. After careful consideration, the judge was satisfied with the draft and announced that he was happy to approve it, making it effective immediately.

The moment was a significant step toward closure and new beginnings for the separated couple. The judge’s approval meant they could proceed with the necessary paperwork to finalize their marriage with a Final Order. They will also have to fill out a TR1 form, a document used to transfer property ownership from one to the other.

What stood out most during the hearing was the judge’s remark about the principle of equality. He stated that it was rare to see such a balanced and equitable agreement in family cases. Divorce proceedings often involve complex disputes over assets, finances, and custody arrangements. Yet, through Mediation, here was a couple who had managed to navigate these challenges with a sense of civility. This case serves as a powerful reminder that, even in the most challenging circumstances, it is possible to approach conflicts with dignity and mutual respect.

After the parties attended Mediation they asked one of our legally trained mediators to draft their agreement as a Consent Order and this was presented in court.

As I left the court, I couldn’t help but reflect on the broader implications of this hearing. In a world where divorce and separation can lead to anger and drawn-out battles, this couple’s approach showed that peaceful resolutions are attainable.

Being able to reach a resolution without antagonism is crucial for separating couples. It serves as a beacon of hope for others facing similar situations, showing that it is possible to emerge from the process with dignity intact.

Today’s experience at the Milton Keynes County Court was not only a legal proceeding but also a reminder of the power of civility and mutual respect in resolving even the most personal of disputes.

Our family mediators and legal advisors can help you reach an agreement about the division of your finances and draft a Consent Order to send to the court for approval. Our services are useful in saving you hundreds of pounds and months to get a legally binding agreement and move on with the next phase of your life after divorce or separation.
For more information on our mediation services, call us at 01908-760298 or email us at info@bradyharvey.com.

Written by Lekisha Lindo Law LLB (Hons), Legal Assistant at Brady Harvey Legal, Law Graduate from Coventry University.