Explanatory note

This Order amends the Court of Judicature Fees Order (Northern Ireland) 1996 (S.R. 1996 No. 100) to introduce new opening, annual administration and closing fees which, if the High Court or county court so orders, may be taken by the Accountant General from a fund in court held for the benefit of a minor or patient.

The Order also makes provision for exemption from the closing fee and refund of fees in relation to a fund held for the benefit of a minor, to ensure that when the fund is to be paid out in full, the value is not less than its original value less payments out as a result of fees taken under the Order.

The Supreme Court Fees Order (Northern Ireland) 1996 has been renamed the Court of Judicature Fees Order (Northern Ireland) 1996 as a consequence of the renaming of the Supreme Court of Judicature of Northern Ireland by virtue of section 59 and paragraph 6 of Schedule 11 to the Constitutional Reform Act 2005 (c. 4).