Judicial Alternative Dispute Resolution (JADR)

circle of wooden people

JADR is an option the SEND tribunal may offer to help resolve disagreements about section I (placement) of an EHCP without needing a full hearing.

A tribunal judge reviews the case and helps you and the local authority (LA) explore potential solutions. JADR can:

  • reduce stress
  • save time
  • avoid the need for a full hearing
  • narrow the issues, even if no agreement is reached

What may happen 

If you are offered a JADR

  1. tribunal decides JADR may help and contacts you
  2. you are invited to a short online meeting (about 1 hour) with the judge and the LA
  3. the judge explains the process, including confidentiality
  4. you may bring a supporter
  5. discussion takes place confidentially, with the judge helping explore solutions
  6. if an agreement is reached, a consent order is issued and the hearing may be cancelled
  7. if not, the case proceeds to the hearing — but often with fewer issues

If you are offered a paper based JADR

  1. no meeting takes place
  2. the judge reviews your documents and the LA’s documents
  3. a written note is issued, highlighting suggestions or areas of agreement
  4. you and the LA respond in writing.
  5. depending on the outcome: 
    • the case may resolve
    • or continue to a full hearing

Key timescales

  • JADR usually happens following the bundle and the case review form being submitted
  • if an agreement is reached, a consent order can be issued quickly

What you need to do

  • read your invitation from the tribunal carefully
  • prepare your key points: 
    • what is most important?
    • what might you compromise on?
  • bring a supporter if you want to
  • keep track of anything agreed

Who is responsible?

  • tribunal: manages the JADR process
  • local authority: must send someone who can make decisions
  • you: decide what you can agree to

Tools and resources

IPSEA  - What is Judicial Alternative Dispute Resolution?

Documents to keep safe

  • invitation letters or emails from the tribunal
  • any written notes from the judge
  • consent order (if issued)
  • your own notes from the JADR session
  • updated working document

FAQs

Do I have to take part? No — JADR is optional. You can go straight to the full hearing.
Can I ask for JADR myself? Yes — you can request it, but the tribunal decides if it’s appropriate.
What if we don’t agree during JADR? The case continues to a hearing, but the issues may be narrowed.
Is JADR legally binding? Only if it results in a consent order.

Tips

  • focus on what matters most for your child
  • be open to compromise
  • ask questions — the judge is there to help
  • bring a supporter for confidence and clarity