How Much Does the Court of Protection Cost in the UK? A Detailed 2025 Guide

What Is the Court of Protection?

Before diving into costs, it’s helpful to understand what the Court of Protection does. The Court of Protection makes decisions on financial or welfare matters for people who lack the mental capacity to make decisions themselves. This can include managing property and financial affairs, health and welfare decisions, or authorising statutory wills.

Official Court Fees for 2025

The Ministry of Justice regularly updates Court and Tribunal fees to reflect inflation and operational costs. From April 1, 2025, the Court of Protection fees were revised as follows:

Application Fee: £421 (up from £408)
This fee is payable when making an application to the Court of Protection, such as applying to become a deputy or making an order.
Appeal Fee: £265 (up from £257)
Charged when appealing a decision made by the Court.
Hearing Fee: £259 (reduced from £494)
This fee applies when a hearing is held in the Court of Protection.

These fees cover the administrative and judicial costs associated with processing applications and hearings.

Annual Deputyship Costs

If you are appointed as a deputy to manage someone's affairs, there are ongoing costs to consider. According to Slater Heelis (2025), the fixed cost for the first year of deputyship is approximately:

£2,116 + VAT

For each subsequent year, the cost reduces to:

£1,672 + VAT

These fees cover the Court’s supervision of the deputyship, including reviewing annual accounts and reports submitted by the deputy.

Additional Costs and Assessments

Beyond the fixed fees, there are other costs that may arise during Court of Protection proceedings:

Detailed Assessment Requests: £99 (up from £96)
If there is a dispute over costs, a detailed assessment request can be filed for this fee.
Appeal Against Costs Assessment: £79 (up from £77)
If you want to challenge a costs assessment decision.
Request to Set Aside Default Costs Certificate: £74 (up from £72)
This fee applies if you ask the Court to set aside a default costs certificate.

What Influences the Total Cost?

While official fees are fixed, the total cost of Court of Protection matters can vary significantly depending on:

Complexity of the Case: More complex cases requiring multiple hearings or expert reports will increase solicitor fees.
Solicitor Fees: Legal professionals charge separately for their time and expertise. Solicitor fees can be hourly or fixed, depending on the service.
Number of Applications: Multiple applications or appeals will multiply the official fees.
Duration of Deputyship: Ongoing supervision fees apply annually for as long as the deputyship lasts.

Why Do Fees Matter?

The fees collected help fund the efficient running of the Court and Tribunal Service, ensuring cases are processed fairly and promptly. Understanding these costs upfront helps individuals and families plan financially and seek appropriate legal advice.

How to Manage Court of Protection Costs

Seek Legal Advice Early: A solicitor experienced in Court of Protection matters can help you understand likely costs and options to manage them.
Budget for Ongoing Fees: If appointed as a deputy, plan for annual supervision fees.
Consider Fee Waivers or Reductions: In some cases, fee waivers or reductions may be available for those on low income or receiving certain benefits.
Request Clear Cost Estimates: Always ask your solicitor for a detailed fee estimate and regular updates.

Summary of Key Fees (Effective April 2025)

Fee Type	Amount (£)	Previous Fee (£)
Application Fee (Article 4)	421	408
Appeal Fee (Article 5)	265	257
Hearing Fee (Article 6)	259	494
Deputyship First Year Fixed Cost + VAT	2,116	N/A
Deputyship Subsequent Years Fixed Cost + VAT	1,672	N/A
Detailed Assessment Request	99	96
Appeal Against Costs Assessment Decision	79	77
Request to Set Aside Default Costs Certificate	74	72

The Court of Protection plays a vital role in safeguarding the interests of vulnerable individuals, but it’s important to be aware of the associated costs.

While official fees are clearly defined and have recently been updated for 2025, the overall expense will depend on the complexity and duration of your case, as well as legal fees.

If you are involved in Court of Protection proceedings or considering applying, consulting a specialist solicitor can help you understand and manage these costs effectively. Planning ahead ensures you can focus on what matters most—protecting the welfare and finances of those who need it most.

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