Family Court Fees Set To Rise

Petitions to dissolve a marriage or civil partnership are now almost entirely to be dealt with by an online service. Generally, this service is quicker and smoother for the parties resulting, it is hoped, in a more streamlined service. From April 2022 the Government have confirmed that the "no fault" divorce will be introduced which should make the process even more straightforward.

Off the back of that some people are critical therefore that the Government have introduced changes in several family law application fees that are paid to the Court. These are paid regardless of whether you have a Solicitor to assist you in the process.

From 30 September 2021 the following changes are being made: 

• Divorce Petition fee increased from £550 to £593
• Child Arrangements application fee increased from £215 to £232
• Application for contested financial remedy Order increased from £255 to £275

For some these will be significant increases. Although some people can apply for an exemption for these fees those circumstances are limited, and the vast majority of clients will need to bear these additional costs in mind.

For help in relation to the divorce or other family matters please call Sarah Watts or email on sarah.watts@dpmlegal.co.uk to talk through your options.

Although every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided in this article is accurate and correct, the information provided does not constitute any form of advice.