Assumption: "I'm just going to let the court decide — I don't need mediation."
1 min readThis content reflects observational insights and lived community experiences. It does not constitute legal advice — always consult a qualified professional for your specific circumstances.
What People Expect
The ES1 asks whether you are willing to consider ADR. Mediation and other forms of ADR have a cost — but so does a contested final hearing, and significantly more so.
Court Reality
Courts expect parties to have considered alternatives before a final hearing. Saying No to ADR on your ES1 without good reason can reflect badly on you and carry costs consequences at the end of the case. Saying yes doesn't mean you agree with the other side — it means you're open to exploring it.
Download the card and post it on Facebook, LinkedIn, or wherever you're active. Every share helps another litigant find this before their hearing.
The Gap?
"I'm just going to let the court decide — I don't need mediation."
Court Reality
Courts expect parties to have considered alternatives before a final hearing. Saying No to ADR on your ES1 without good reason can reflect badly on you and carry costs consequences at the end of the case. Saying yes doesn't mean you agree with the other side — it means you're open to exploring it.
Experienced a gap between what you thought you knew about family court and the reality? Share your own and get credited.
familycourtbridge.org
Navigating court alone?
A McKenzie Friend can help you make sense of this in the context of your own case.
Find your supportCookie Consent
We use essential cookies only to provide you with the best experience on our website. No tracking or analytics cookies are used.