The Ministry of Justice has said the increasing court fees said to be vital to ongoing court work for all those who seek justice, however, it will add to the burden of many people grappling with the cost-of-living crisis in particular for those who are divorcing or in dispute over their children’s welfare.

The key changes in Family Court fees:

  • An application for Financial Remedy orders will increase from £275 to £303.
  • Applications for Child Arrangements orders will increase from £232 to £255.
  • An application by consent will increase from £53 to £58.
  • An application within proceedings will increase from £167 to £184.

What does this mean for clients?

Clients planning to make these applications in the Family Court should be aware of these changes. Litigation is already notoriously expensive, and it is often a slow process. This increase in court fees further highlights the benefits for families to resolve their disputes out of Court if it is appropriate to do so.

Changes to the Family Proceedings Rules in April 2024 also mean that there is a greater expectation that non-court options are explored in full before court applications are made.

There are several ways of resolving matters outside of court. Collectively, this is known as Non-Court Dispute Resolution [Read our previous article – Ending the Family Court Crisis – ADR]. The main different types of NCDR are as follows:

  • Mediation
  • Arbitration
  • Negotiation through solicitors
  • Early neutral evaluation (ENE)

For clients using NCDR often achieve a quicker and more cost-efficient means to resolution of disagreements over Family Law issues. We can explain the non-court options and help you choose one that would suit you and your family as well as providing you with ongoing advice and support about fair outcomes.

Family law solicitors near you

Gordons Partnership are here to support you through any family law matters you may face. If you would like further information, contact a member of our family team. You can call 01483 451 900 or email sols@gordonsols.co.uk.

 

About the Author

Liberty

Liberty Lawson

Trainee Solicitor