The Minister confirmed that The County Court (Amendment) Rules (NI) 2025 will come into operation on 26 November 2025. The new rules will increase County Court Scale costs by 23%.

A copy of the Rules can be accessed here.

 

Details of increased solicitors costs in Northern Ireland in relation to County Court Matters:

Matthew Fitzpatrick, Head of HF Northern Ireland comments, “this is an increase that we have been expecting, and no doubt is argued that it is in line with inflation. I am however of the opinion that this once again highlights a number of points in relation to litigation in Northern Ireland.

With the increase in costs, it is imperative that every insurer has a set strategy in place, to not just deal with the litigation but also endeavours to decrease the rates of litigation and also put in place bespoke tactics to deal with certain firms.

Another factor that this also highlights is that the recent pre-action protocol that was put in place needs to be better implemented and HF will continue to seek better implementation in relation to the protocol, particularly in relation to issues such as disclosure of documentation pre-issue, which in essence therefore deceases costs and disbursements.

Going forward you will be aware of the recent case that HF led, of Paul Dicks v First Central Insurance, which did allow for some clarity in relation to the costs position for lodgements and settlements pre-COR. This is an essential judgment and one that should be referred to at every stage.

If you have any questions, concerns or wish to receive any training in relation to costs or indeed any matters that relate to Northern Ireland litigation, please get in touch.”