Andrew Stynes details the current family court fees and what they are changing to from 30th September.
How are family court fees changing from 30th September?
Below I’ve detailed all of the changes in court fees that you need to be aware of.
How much are divorce court fees?
The divorce court fee is currently £550, but this is rising to £593 from 30th September onwards.
How much does it cost to go to court for a child arrangements order?
From 30th September, the court fee for applications for child arrangements order are rising from £215 to £232.
What are the fees for financial court proceedings in divorce?
Financial court proceedings go from £255 to £275 on 30th September.
How much does a consent order cost?
It currently costs £50 to get a consent order, but this is rising to £53 on 30th September.
Why are family court fees increasing?
For the simple reason the government seeks millions to fund the service. The government has said the increase in fees is in line with inflation.
What if I can’t afford court fees?
If you can’t afford court fees, you may be able to get financial help.
Depending on your savings, benefits and income you may eligible.
Am I eligible for help with court fees?
Savings
Generally, you need to have less than £3,000 in savings and investments if you’re under the age of 61.
If you or your partner are older than 61, or your court fee is between £1,000 and £10,000, then you can have up to £16,000 in savings.
Benefits
To be eligible, you need to be on a ‘low income’ or on one of the following benefits:
- Income Support
- Income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
- Universal Credit (and you earn less than £6,000 a year)
- Scottish Civil Legal Aid (not Advice and Assistance, or Advice by Way of Representation)
- Pension Credit (Guarantee Credit)
Income
From 30th September, the proposed monthly income threshold for court users to be eligible for help with fees will change. Going from £1,085 to £1,165 for a single person and from £1,245 to £1,335 for a couple.
If you are still unsure whether you can claim help with court fees, you can check out whether you’re eligible using the Gov.uk dedicated page here.
Specialist Family Solicitors
If you have any questions following this article, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our bright Family Team.
Contact us if you would like a free initial appointment with a member of our Family Team at our Christchurch or Ringwood offices, with no obligation or charge. Call on 01202 499255 or fill out the form on this page.
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