In these difficult economic times, unfortunately there is yet another cost increase; this time in terms of Court fees.
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) confirmed that it will proceed with increases of 10% to 172 of the 202 fees originally proposed in consultation. These will come into force as from 1st May 2024.
The MOJ have stated that it is critical that court fees are increased to ensure courts can be properly resourced, can keep pace with increased costs as well as improving service.
The Government has proposed to help launch a more generous Help With Fees scheme to provide greater levels of financial assistance to those considered most in need.
A full list of the increases can be found at:
The court fees that will be increasing in respect of private family proceedings include:-
- Divorce proceedings Form A – Notice of intention to proceed with an application for a financial order will increase from £275.00 to £303.00 – this is where the parties are unable to reach agreement in relation to financial matters following the breakdown of their marriage, for example, in terms of what happens to the family home , the parties’ pensions and one party makes an application to the Court for such matters to be resolved.
- Application by consent – increasing from £53.00 to £58.00. This includes the Judge approving the terms of settlement agreed between the parties following the breakdown of a marriage where formal court proceedings have not been issued.
- Application in existing proceedings on notice except where separately listed – increasing from £167.00 to £184.00. ‘On notice’ means the other party has been notified of the application, regardless of whether there is a hearing or not
- The divorce application fee remains at £593.00; this is one of the few fees that has not been increased
- Children Act Proceedings – any new applications under the Children Act 1989 concerning a child or children, for example, where the child or children will live, with whom they will spend time and specific matters such as change of name or change of school, the court fee will increase from £232.00 to £255.00
If you require any advice or assistance in relation to family law matters please do not hesitate to contact RJT Solicitors on 01257 228027 or info@rjtsolicitors.co.uk
