On 6^th March 2017, the Civil Proceedings Fees (Amendment) Order 2016 shall come in to force.

Hearing fees for trials must now be paid 28 days prior to the trial date, or the Monday of the first week of the notified trial period, when notified of the trial date more than 36 days in advance. If less than 36 days’ notice is given, the fee must be paid within 7 days of notice being given. Notice is deemed to be given on either the date the Court orally communicates the date of the hearing or sends out the hearing notice.

The Amendment removes the existing provisions allowing litigants to reclaim trial hearing fees, either in full or in part, when the claim settles.

If notice of the trial is given before 6^th March 2017 then the Amendment will have no effect and fees may still be refunded in accordance with the existing rules.