(This note is not part of the Order)

This Order introduces a new system for the payment of graduated fees for counsel for work in family proceedings in the High Court, county courts and magistrates' courts, as set out in article 4(2). The graduated fees vary with the nature of the proceedings and a number of factors designed to reflect their complexity. Provision is also made for an additional fee to be payable in proceedings involving an exceptional amount of preparation.

The Order also covers how and when claims for payment are to be made, and appeals and reviews of payments.

The Community Legal Service (Funding) Order 2000 (S.I.2000/627) (as amended by the Community Legal Service (Funding) (Amendment) Order 2001 S.I.2001/830), which provides for the funding of legal services as part of the Community Legal Service, will continue to apply to cases not within the scope of this Order.