When someone is involved in a UK court case but is living outside the country — such as in Ireland — it is very common to feel unsure about what fees apply, when they must be paid, and whether attendance from abroad changes anything. Many people assume there is a single “court attendance fee”, but in reality, UK courts charge fees for applications, filings, and processes, not for simply attending a hearing.
This guidance explains, in plain English, how UK court fees work, what you may need to pay, and how to manage the process from Ireland.
Understanding the issue or context
You asked how much you need to pay “for the attend courts”, and explained that you are currently in Dublin. This is a very common point of confusion. People often expect a single fee for attending a hearing, but UK courts do not charge a fee just for showing up.
Instead, fees arise when:
- you file an application,
- you submit paperwork such as a C2 or other request,
- you start or respond to a case requiring a fee,
- you appeal, vary, or enforce an order.
If you are abroad, the process can feel even more unclear because you may also need to request remote attendance.
Understanding which fees apply helps you avoid unnecessary worry and allows you to plan your next steps calmly.
The legal rules or framework
1. There is no “attendance fee” for simply going to court
You are not charged for:
- attending a hearing,
- joining a remote hearing,
- being present while the judge makes a decision.
Court fees only apply when you file something.
2. Fees depend on the type of application
Different fees apply depending on what you need to do. For example:
- C100 or child arrangements application – £232
- C2 application (e.g., permission to vary, set aside, join remotely, etc.) – usually £53
- Appeal fees – £215 (family court), if applicable
- Enforcement applications – £232
These figures are standard fees set by the Ministry of Justice.
3. Remote attendance requests may require a C2 application
If you cannot physically attend the hearing because you are in Ireland, you may need to file a C2 application asking:
- to attend by video link, or
- for the hearing to be adjourned if travel is impossible.
This application normally carries a £53 fee unless the court waives it in exceptional circumstances.
4. You pay fees at the point of filing the document
This means:
- the fee applies when you submit,
- not when the court schedules or hears your application.
5. Fee exemptions (Help With Fees) are limited
The “Help With Fees” scheme:
- applies to people on low income,
- requires evidence of UK-based earnings or benefits,
- is not usually available to those living abroad.
If you live in Ireland and do not receive UK benefits or income, you may not qualify.
Practical steps to take (step-by-step guidance)
1. Identify which application, if any, you need to file
Ask yourself:
- Do I need to ask the judge for something?
- Am I responding to an order?
- Do I need permission to attend remotely?
If yes, a fee may apply. If you are only attending, no fee is required.
2. If requesting remote attendance, prepare a C2 application
Explain:
- that you are in Dublin,
- why you cannot travel to the UK,
- that you wish to participate fully,
- the practical arrangements available for video attendance.
The fee is usually £53.
3. Keep all your receipts and confirmations
Court staff may ask for proof of payment if anything becomes unclear.
4. Contact the court to confirm whether a fee is required
You can email or call the family court dealing with your case.
Provide:
- your case number,
- your name,
- your location (Ireland),
- the date of the upcoming hearing.
Court staff can confirm whether any fee is due.
5. If you already received an order asking you to respond
Check the order carefully.
Sometimes the judge asks for:
- a statement,
- attendance only,
- or a simple response — none of which carry a fee.
Only applications requiring judicial consideration generate fees.
Common pitfalls to avoid
- Assuming you must pay just to attend. You do not.
- Missing the need for a C2 application when attending from abroad. Without a formal request, the court may proceed without you.
- Thinking the hearing will automatically be moved or made remote. The judge must approve it.
- Delaying payment. Applications are not processed until the fee is paid.
- Assuming Help With Fees applies abroad. It normally does not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I pay to attend the hearing?
No. There is no attendance fee.
Do I pay a fee if I want to attend from Ireland by video?
Yes — usually £53 via a C2 application.
What if I cannot afford the fee?
You can apply for Help With Fees, but eligibility is limited outside the UK.
Can the judge waive the fee?
In rare cases, yes — but you should not assume this.
Is there a fee for sending a statement?
No, unless it accompanies a formal application.
What if I do not file anything at all?
Then no fee arises, but you risk the court proceeding without your input.
Conclusion
If you’d like to understand your rights and options in plain English, visit LegalGuidance.org — a free resource powered by Martin Taggart Legal Consulting.
For professional, fixed-fee advice from a UK solicitor, visit MartinTaggart.com.
This information is general guidance only and not legal advice. For personalised support, please contact Martin Taggart Legal Consulting.