Family Court Fees Are Increasing – Why It Pays to Get the Right Advice Early

Court fees are increasing from 13 July 2026.

The Ministry of Justice has announced changes to a range of court and tribunal fees across England and Wales. For those involved in family law matters, the key increases include:

• Divorce application fee: £612 → £629
• Application for a financial order: £313 → £322
• Certain children’s applications (including Child Arrangements Orders): £263 → £271

If you’re going through a separation, divorce, or a dispute involving your children, you already have enough to think about without worrying about rising court fees.

The Ministry of Justice has announced plans to increase a number of court and tribunal fees. While these changes are intended to help fund the court system, they could mean that resolving family disputes through the courts becomes even more expensive.

For many families, this is another reminder that court should not always be the first option.

Going to Court Isn’t Always Necessary

When a relationship breaks down, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. You may be worried about your finances, your home, or the arrangements for your children.

Many people come to us believing that they will have to go to court to sort everything out. In reality, that is often not the case.

At Blanchards Law, we regularly help clients reach agreements without the need for lengthy court proceedings. Through careful negotiation, practical legal advice, and where appropriate, mediation, many family disputes can be resolved more quickly, with less stress and at a lower cost.

Why Avoiding Court Can Benefit You

Court proceedings can be expensive, time-consuming and emotionally draining. Rising court fees only add to that burden.

By reaching an agreement outside of court, you may be able to:

• Save money on court fees and legal costs
• Resolve matters more quickly
• Reduce stress and uncertainty
• Keep control over important decisions affecting your family
• Minimise conflict, particularly where children are involved
• Move forward with your life sooner

No one knows your family better than you do. Reaching an agreement together often leads to more practical and lasting solutions than having decisions imposed by a judge.

Putting Children First

When children are involved, reducing conflict is often one of the most important things parents can do.

Court disputes can place additional strain on families at an already difficult time. Wherever possible, our solicitors encourage constructive discussions that focus on what is best for the children and help parents build positive arrangements for the future.

When Court Is the Right Option

Of course, there are situations where court proceedings cannot be avoided. If there are concerns about a child’s welfare, domestic abuse, or one party is simply unwilling to engage in discussions, court intervention may be necessary.

If that happens, our team will be by your side throughout the process, providing clear advice and strong representation to protect your interests.

How Blanchards Law Can Help

Every family situation is different. That’s why we take the time to understand your circumstances, explain your options plainly, and help you find the best path forward.

Our aim is always to resolve matters as efficiently and cost-effectively as possible. Where an agreement can be reached without court proceedings, we will work hard to help you achieve it. Should court action become necessary, we will ensure you have the support and guidance you need every step of the way.

If you are considering separation, divorce, financial arrangements, or issues relating to your children, getting legal advice early can help you make informed decisions and potentially avoid unnecessary costs in the future.

To speak to a member of our family law team, contact Blanchards Law today on 03333446302. With offices in Beaconsfield, Henley, Marlow & London, we would be happy to assist you.

Interested in reading other blogs?

Why don’t you read this blog, on How to Divorce Well – A Family Law Perspective or this one, Understanding Fathers’ Rights in Wills and Guardianship: Why the Birth Certificate Matters in England and Wales