What is a Form G?

The purpose of a Form G is to give the court advance notice about whether the parties have exchanged their financial disclosure (using Forms E) and whether, in the absence of any preliminary matters to be resolved (such as the valuation of a particular asset) they consider that the First Appointment can instead be used for negotiation (being the key purpose of the FDR hearing).

Completing the Form G accurately is essential in ensuring that the court can proceed efficiently. It informs the judge whether each party believes that the case is ready to move to settlement discussions or whether further directions are needed before negotiations can begin.

When a Form G is Used

The Form G is used once both parties have filed and exchanged their Forms E. It must be submitted seven days before the First Appointment. If both parties agree that they have exchanged full disclosure and are in a position to negotiate, the court may convert the First Appointment into an FDR hearing, where the judge will assist in trying to settle the case without the need for a final hearing.

If either party states that they are not ready for an FDR, however, then the court will typically use the First Appointment to give directions, such as ordering valuations, further disclosure, or expert reports, in order to assist with the settlement process.

How to Complete a Form G

The Form G is relatively short. It includes space for each party to confirm whether they have complied with the financial disclosure requirements and whether they agree to the First Appointment being used as an FDR hearing. If both parties tick the relevant box to agree, the court will consider proceeding on that basis.

It is important to ensure that all financial disclosure is complete and that both parties are genuinely in a position to negotiate before agreeing to an FDR. If there are still unresolved issues around documents or valuations, it may be more appropriate to proceed with a traditional First Appointment and ask the court to set a future FDR hearing in due course.

What Happens After Filing Form G

Once the Form G is filed, the court will review both parties’ submissions to determine the most appropriate course of action for the upcoming hearing. If it becomes an FDR hearing, the judge will take a more active role in encouraging a settlement. If it remains a First Appointment, the court will issue any necessary directions to progress the case.

Failing to file the Form G on time can result in delays or the court not being able to manage the hearing effectively. It is a procedural step that plays an important role in the overall timetable of a financial remedy application.