A guide on form G, what it is and how to use it.
Form G – Notice of first response to first appointment.
Form G is a type of form used in the divorce process which is used for the respondent to let the court know if they are able to proceed straight to the financial dispute resolution hearing (FDR) and skip the first directions hearing (FDA).
First directions hearing (FDA) – A FDA is usually called the ‘first appointment’. An FDA is the first hearing during financial proceedings, during the hearing the court will establish the next steps to be taken to prepare the case for financial settlement.
Financial dispute resolution (FDR) – A FDR is the second court hearing that you and your ex will attend to resolve their finances during a divorce. An FDR is the best way to try to come on an agreement with your ex about your finances.
Form G is used to let the court know you and your ex want to use the first appointment.
If there is missing information (such as if financial disclosure has not been fully made) the FDA can only be treated as a ‘directions hearing’. This will allow time for full financial disclosure to take place.
If there is no missing information, then you can skip the FDA and go straight to the FDR.
You must give the court 2 weeks (14 days) notice of form G being submitted before the date of the first appointment.