Dean voices Faculty concern over planned 24% court fees rise

Dean of the Faculty of Advocates, Gordon Jackson QC, has voiced concerns over access to justice following the proposed increases in civil court fees put out to consultation by the Scottish Government.

Ministers have issued a consultation paper with the options of a flat 24% rise in all fees, or targeted rises with some fees held at present levels and others set to more than double (click here for report).

They have brought forward plans to make the civil courts fully self funding, arguing that this is necessary due to public spending curbs imposed by Westminster.

Mr Jackson responded: “The Faculty will consider the paper and respond in detail in due course. My immediate concern would be maintaining access to justice and I would be anxious to ensure that no change would adversely affect that.”