Abu Dhabi Allows Instalment Payments for Legal Fees
Abu Dhabi: Court Fees Now Payable in Instalments
The initial costs of legal proceedings often pose a significant barrier to accessing justice. To address this issue, the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has introduced an interest-free instalment payment option for court fees, enforcement costs, legal fees, and notary fees. This innovative service not only facilitates access to justice but significantly reduces the financial burden on litigants. With this step, the ADJD stands out as the first judicial body in the region to offer such a service.
What Does the Service Cover?
The new system encompasses all costs related to legal proceedings. This includes court and prosecutor fees, alternative dispute resolution fees, as well as fees for lawyers, experts, and notaries. In addition, subscription fees for ADJD services can now also be paid in instalments.
Removing Financial Barriers
The Secretary of State of the ADJD highlighted that the introduction of a structured, interest-free instalment payment option has succeeded in removing a significant financial barrier. "This service ensures that cost considerations do not hinder access to the courts," he said. He added that through flexible and convenient payment options, this service helps maintain the financial liquidity of individuals and businesses, and makes Abu Dhabi's investment and trade sector more attractive.
Strengthening Economic and Legal Competitiveness
This initiative is directly linked to the vision of the ADJD president, who aims to develop world-class judicial services in Abu Dhabi. This enhances the city's competitiveness not only economically but also legally, reinforcing its position as an investment and business hub.
Positive Feedback from the Legal Profession
The legal community in Abu Dhabi has also welcomed this move, viewing it as a progressive reform that contributes to making litigation more accessible. A partner at the Expatriate Law firm described the initiative as a "defining decision" with significant impact on both individuals and businesses navigating the legal system.
For many litigants, the initial costs of legal proceedings pose a major barrier to accessing justice. "This initiative not only ensures broader access to the courts but aligns Abu Dhabi’s judicial system with international best practices while making legal remedies financially more accessible," he said. He highlighted that the reform could be particularly beneficial in family law cases, where financial considerations often influence the filing or defense of claims.
"In family law disputes, especially involving international families, financial pressure often obstructs access to justice," he added. "The interest-free instalment system offers great flexibility, allowing parties to focus on achieving fair outcomes without worrying about costs."
Aligned with Economic Goals
This measure is also in line with Abu Dhabi's broader economic goals, which aim to establish the city as a competitive global investment and business center. By reducing the initial costs of legal proceedings, policymakers hope to create a more dynamic legal framework that strikes a balance between efficiency and accessibility.
Overall, the new service by the Abu Dhabi Judicial Department not only serves to make justice more accessible but also contributes to strengthening the city's economic and legal competitiveness. This step clearly indicates that Abu Dhabi is serious about creating a modern and inclusive legal system, benefiting both individuals and businesses.
