CIVIL court fees to bring a monetary claim are based on the value of the claim, up to a maximum fee of £1,920.

From April 2015 new court fees have been proposed and, if adopted, will apply to claims valued over £10,000.

These proposed fees will be calculated at five per cent of the claim’s value, up to a maximum fee of £10,000.

These changes are clearly designed to motivate parties to settle disputes via alternative procedures, but there are concerns that these increases will reduce access to justice for those who simply cannot afford the increased fees.

In light of these changes, you should review any ongoing disputes and, if necessary, issue court proceedings before the new fees take effect.

For advice on civil disputes please contact Simon Arneaud, a solicitor in the dispute resolution team at Lamb Brooks LLP, on 01256 305504 or email him at simon.arneaud@lamb brooks.com.