The following information received from HM Courts & Tribunals Service (HMCTS) may be of interest to anyone having dealings with the judicial system, the courts and especially the Court of Protection. Fee remissions may be available to someone with a learning disability making an application to the court, or when someone applies on their behalf, e.g. for deputyship.
This attempt to simplify a complex system follows a period of consultation, and if effective, would be welcomed warmly.
From 30 June, you will see a difference to the HM Courts & Tribunals Service fee remissions form and guidance. Having listened to the feedback from customers and stakeholders, these changes will simplify the application process for users. The main changes you should be aware of, for any fee remission applications from 30 June are:
- You no longer need to provide original copies of documents. We will accept photocopies.
- You don’t have to tell us the exact amount of disposable capital you have just the relevant threshold it falls into.
- Bank statements can be printed copies from online banking systems.
- DWP letters can now be dated within the last three months. Previously, a letter from DWP confirming receipt of benefits for benefits-related remissions (fee remission 1) had to be dated within the last month.
- A clearer, simplified form is now at the front of the guidance, with references to guidance notes.
- If a piece of information is missing we will endeavour to contact you rather than reject the claim.
- The new form should be used from 30 June. From 14 July you should no longer submit applications using the old EX160 form.
We continue to review the remissions system to make it easier and quicker to move through the system. We welcome any feedback to help us further simplify the process. Contact either: EmploymentJurisdictionalSupportTeamInbox@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk for Employment Tribunals or Civil&FamilyBusinessSupport@hmcts.gsi.gov.uk for civil and family.