Family Court fees are set to increase from 8th April 2025 and here is what you need to know.
The Ministry of Justice have announced, subject to parliamentary approved, that from 8th April 2025, they will implement increases to various Court and Tribunal fees, including those for family proceedings.
These adjustments aim to align fees with inflation and support the efficient operation of the justice system.
The key increases to be aware of are:-
Matrimonial and Civil Partnership proceedings
- Filing an application for a decree of divorce, nullity or a dissolution order – £612 (current fee £593)
- Filing an application for judicial separation (separation order) – £415 (current fee £402)
- Filing an answer to an application for a matrimonial or civil partnership order – £234 (current fee £245)
- Filing an amended application for a matrimonial or civil partnership order – £59 (current fee £95)
- Filing an application to start proceedings where no other fee is specified – £279 (current fee £270)
Private Law applications under Children Act 1989
- Application for a Child Arrangements Order, Specific Issue Order or Prohibited Steps Order – £263 (current fee £255)
- Application for a Parental Responsibility Order – £263 (current fee £255)
- Application for a Special Guardianship Order – £263 (current fee £255)
- Application for an Enforcement Order or an Order for compensation for financial loss due to the breakdown of a Child Arrangements Order – £263 (current fee £255)
Financial Orders
- Application on notice for a Financial Order other than by consent – £313 (current fee £303)
- Application by consent for a Financial Order – £60 (current fee £58)
Applications in Proceedings
- Application (on notice) (unless otherwise listed) – £190 (current fee £184)
- Application (without notice) – £60 (current fee £58)
Financial Implications
The justification for the rise in fees is that the increase is expected to generate additional revenue which will be reinvested into the Court system to enhance service delivery and subsidise the costs of related services.
Access to Justice
The Ministry of Justice recognise that the increase in fees may pose challenges for some individuals. The Help with Fees remission scheme will remain available to those who are eligible. This program assists those with lower financial means who are unable to afford Court fees ensuring that financial barriers do not impede their access to justice.
Recommendations
If you are planning to initiate family proceedings you should be aware of these upcoming fee changes and budget accordingly. Consulting with ourselves can provide clarity on the specific fees applicable to your case and we can offer guidance on potential fee remissions. You will also be encouraged to seek alternative forms of dispute resolution in order to avoid using the Court system.
More information about the increases can be found at www.gov.uk
How can we help?
If you require any additional advice about any of the above mentioned applications, please do not hesitate to contact the Family Team on 01925 765212.