Policy
23 June, 2009
Civil court fee changes introduced to reduce burden on taxpayer
New charges introduced to accurately reflect true costs of civil action, says government
The Ministry of Justice has announced details of a number of changes to fees in the civil court which it claims will more accurately reflect the costs of action taken and enable taxpayers' money to better help those in financial difficulty.
The changes will result in rises for those bringing certain types of court action who are able to pay for it while remaining free or resulting in reduced fees for those on low incomes. Fee payers will ultimately be able to claim the court charge from the defendent where their claim has been successful.
Announcing the new court fees, Bridget Prentice, Justice Minister, said -
'These changes are in the best interests of people on low income and tax payers. Those who can't afford to pay a court fee deserve the taxpayers' help. But court fees need to reflect the true cost of court proceedings.'
The fees, which come into effect on 13 July 2009, will result in changes to 30 of the 200 plus different court fees payable. Fees will continue to be automatically waived for people receiving means-tested benefits or those on low incomes.
Information from the Ministry of Justice on Court fee changes mean taxpayers only shoulder costs for the poorest is available here.
