OLS Solicitors Blog
Understanding the 2025 Family Court Fee Increases in England and Wales
Understanding the 2025 Family Court Fee Increases in England and Wales
As of April 2025, the Ministry of Justice (MoJ) has introduced updated court and tribunal fees across England and Wales, including fees that affect family law matters. These changes are part of a broader effort to keep pace with inflation and ensure the continued operation and improvement of HM Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS).
Quick Navigation:
- Key Changes in Family Court Fees
- Why Fees Have Increased
- Help with Court Fees
- Alternatives to Going to Court
- Need Guidance? Contact OLS Solicitors
Key Changes in Family Court Fees
Divorce Applications
The fee to apply for a divorce, nullity, or civil partnership dissolution has increased from £593 to £612.
Financial Remedy Proceedings
The application fee to resolve financial matters during divorce has increased from £303 to £313.
Financial Consent Orders
The fee for submitting a consent order has risen from £58 to £60.
Children Act Applications
Applications for Child Arrangements Orders, Prohibited Steps Orders, or Specific Issue Orders now cost £263 (up from £255).
General Applications (Form D11)
The fee has increased from £184 to £190. This includes requests such as permission to apply out of time or amend existing orders.
These changes reflect a 3.2 percent rise based on inflation figures from March 2023 to March 2024.
Why Fees Have Increased
The Ministry of Justice’s Reasoning
- To reflect inflation and ensure fees remain proportionate
- To help fund court operations and subsidised services
- To support ongoing court modernisation and efficiency
Even modest increases can have an impact—especially in complex or prolonged cases involving family law.
Help with Court Fees
Help with Fees Scheme
If you’re on a low income or receive certain benefits, you may be able to get help with some or all of your court fees. The scheme considers income, savings, and benefits received.
You can apply online or via post. More information is available on the GOV.UK website.
Alternatives to Going to Court
Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution
- Mediation: Work with a trained mediator to reach an agreement outside court.
- Collaborative Law: Both parties and their lawyers commit to resolving issues without going to court.
- Arbitration: A private process in which an arbitrator gives a binding decision.
The Family Mediation Voucher Scheme is also available until March 2026, offering up to £500 toward mediation costs.
Need Guidance? Contact OLS Solicitors
Speak to a Family Law Expert
We understand that navigating legal fees and applications during a stressful time isn’t easy. At OLS Solicitors, we can help you:
- Understand which 2025 court fees apply to your case
- Check if you’re eligible for financial assistance
- Avoid unnecessary costs through alternative solutions
- Prepare and submit your applications accurately
Call us: 01554 756952
Email: [email protected]
We’re here to make the legal process as straightforward as possible.
OLS Solicitors – Clarity. Support. Results.
