About Us
At the Private FDR Group, our aim is simple: to make high-quality private Financial Dispute Resolution (pFDR) hearings accessible to a far wider range of divorcing parties, not just those who are wealthy.
We can do this through our 'hybrid' model, where the parties and their lawyers attend in person, while the evaluator joins remotely via secure video. This approach keeps costs as low as possible without compromising the quality of the evaluation or the effectiveness of the face-to-face negotiation carried out by the lawyers.
Our work is currently led by Gary Howell, a former financial remedies practitioner with specialist expertise. Gary also holds a fee-paid judicial appointment in the Financial Remedies Court, but the work done through this company is carried out strictly in a private capacity.
Being centred on a single evaluator allows us to offer a consistent, personal and highly focused service, ensuring every case receives considered and experienced input.
Our FDR evaluations are grounded in a clear understanding of financial remedy law and the way courts in England and Wales typically approach these cases. Every pFDR is carried out in line with the relevant legal principles and procedure, helping parties negotiate towards outcomes that are fair, realistic and capable of being approved by the court.
We are a down-to-earth, efficient and client-focused organisation.
We understand the stress that financial disputes can bring, and we work to provide a calm, structured and constructive environment for settlement.
Our Mission
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To make private FDRs truly accessible, including to couples who would not ordinarily consider them.
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To reduce the stress, delay and uncertainty often associated with financial remedy proceedings.
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To deliver fair, clear and legally grounded evaluations that support effective negotiation.
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To offer flexible, innovative hearing formats that keep costs proportionate without sacrificing quality.
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To help families resolve financial issues with confidence, dignity and clarity.
Our Values
Fairness
We help parties work towards balanced, workable outcomes that reflect the legal principles applied in the Financial Remedies Court.
Accessibility
Our hybrid model allows more couples to benefit from private FDRs, without the high costs traditionally associated with them.
Efficiency
We provide timely, focused hearings that bypass court delays and allow progress to be made quickly.
Realism
We offer clear, practical indications based on the facts and the law, helping manage expectations and support settlement.
Sensitivity
We recognise the emotional demands of divorce and adopt a calm, respectful and supportive approach.
Innovation
We embrace flexible, modern working methods (particularly hybrid delivery) to offer a service that genuinely meets the needs of divorcing parties and practitioners.
