30 June 2026
Following our recent article on probate fee increases further court fee changes are set to affect families across England and Wales this summer.
Individuals considering divorce, financial remedy proceedings, or applications concerning children should be aware that family court fees are set to increase from 13 July 2026, subject to parliamentary approval.
While the planned increases may appear modest, anyone planning to issue proceedings in the coming weeks could save money by submitting their application before the new fees take effect.
Key Fee Increases
The following family court fees will increase from 13 July 2026:
| Application | Current Fee | New Fee |
| Divorce Application | £612 | £628 |
| Financial Remedy Application | £313 | £321 |
| Children Act Application (including Child Arrangements Orders, Specific Issue Orders and Prohibited Steps Orders) | £263 | £270 |
The increased fees will apply to applications issued on or after 13 July 2026.
Why Timing Matters
For those who have already decided to begin divorce proceedings or make an application relating to finances or arrangements for children, there may be a financial advantage in issuing proceedings before the fee increase comes into force.
A divorce application submitted before 13 July will attract the current fee of £612 rather than the new fee of £628. Similarly, applicants seeking a Financial Remedy Order or making an application under the Children Act 1989 can avoid the higher fees by filing their applications before the change takes effect.
Seek Advice Early
Anyone considering court proceedings should obtain legal advice as soon as possible. Preparing an application often requires gathering information and documentation, and leaving matters until the last minute may result in missing the deadline for the current fee rates.
At Phillips Law, our Family Law team can advise on the costs involved in court proceedings, discuss alternative dispute resolution options where appropriate, and help you understand the most effective way to move your matter forward.
If you are considering making a family court application or would like advice on how the fee increases may affect you, please contact our Family Law team.
Written by Kelly Geter, Solicitor in the Family Team.
Get in contact today: [email protected]
Basingstoke: 01256 460830
Farnborough: 01252 541633
Yateley: 01252 872617
Government update: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/court-and-tribunal-fees-updates-from-july-2026
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