Family Mediation / Family Proceedings in a Magistrates Court

In the case of Family Mediation or Family Proceedings in a Magistrates Court, (excluding Children Act applications or injunctions) you will automatically qualify on income grounds if you receive Income Support, Income-based Job Seekers Allowance or Guarantee State Pension Credit.

However, if you receive other income your gross income must not exceed £2,657 per month, (this figure increases if you have more than 4 children) and your disposable income must not exceed £733 per month. Your capital must not exceed £8,000.

In the case of family proceedings in a magistrates court, if your income is between £316 - £733 per month you will have to pay a monthly Contribution to the Commission. The Commission will assess how much this contribution will be. This is assessed in accordance with 3 bands:

Band A
Income between £316 - £465 - 1/4 of your income in excess of £311.

Band B
Income between £466 - £616 - £38.50 plus 1/3 of your income in excess of £465.

Band C
Income between £617 - £733 - £88.85 plus 1/2 of your income in excess of £616.

Deductions from monthly income are made as follows:

Partner £159.25

Dependants aged 15 or under £243.81

Dependants aged 16 or over £243.81

You will have to provide details of your income, expenses, savings, etc. to help the Commission decide how much you should pay.

In the case of both family mediation and family proceedings in a magistrates court, if your capital is over £8,000 you may still be eligible if you are in receipt of income support or income based job seekers allowance.

From 9th April 2007 child applicants' income include those of their parents, unless it would appear unjust to do so.