The Ministry of Justice has updated court and tribunal fees across England and Wales. The changes took effect on 13 July 2026.
One hundred and seventy fees rose by 2.6 percent to reflect inflation for 2024 to 2025. A further 27 increased by an average of 34 percent, or £6.19, to address accumulated shortfalls. Four fees fell where underlying costs had dropped.
The fee for a divorce or dissolution application moved from £612 to £628. County court possession claims rose from £404 to £415. Probate applications now cost £526.
These adjustments form part of a deliberate effort to align charges more closely with the expense of delivering justice. The Court and Tribunal Fees (Miscellaneous Amendments) Order 2026 gives them legal force. Officials describe the purpose as strengthening cost recovery, improving consistency in how and where fees are charged, and maintaining fair access to justice for all.
The purpose of the changes is to strengthen cost recovery, improve consistency in how and where fees are charged, and maintain fair access to justice for all.
A new five-tier fee structure appeared in the Property Chamber of the First-tier Tribunal. Most cases now attract an application fee of £200 plus a £300 hearing fee, or £114 plus £227 depending on the route. Certain rent increase appeals saw the hearing fee waived, cutting the total by £47. Pitch fee determinations dropped by £23 on the same basis. No fees apply to urgent building safety cases.
An exemption from court fees was introduced for local authorities making applications to the family court under section 18 of the Victims and Prisoners Act 2024, known as Jade’s Law. The relief applies from the date the relevant provisions commence. It removes a financial barrier in cases involving the loss of a parent through domestic abuse.
