E-Paper
Sign In
Abu Dhabi: Pay court fees, lawyer expenses in interest-free installments now
For many litigants, the upfront cost of legal proceedings can be a significant deterrent to pursuing justice, said legal professionals
- PUBLISHED: Thu 20 Feb 2025, 5:30 AM
The Abu Dhabi Judicial Department (ADJD) has launched an interest-free installment service for court fees, enforcement amounts, lawyer expenses, and notary fees. A step toward facilitating access to justice and easing the financial burden on litigants, ADJD is the first judicial authority in the region to offer such an innovative service.
The service covers all litigation-related fees, including court and public prosecution fees, alternative dispute resolution fees, as well as fees for lawyers, experts, notary services, and subscriptions to ADJD services.
Recommended For You
“By introducing a structured, interest-free payment plan, we are removing a major financial barrier to litigation, ensuring that cost considerations do not impede access to the courts,” said Counselor Yousef Saeed Al Abri, Undersecretary of ADJD.
Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels.
He noted that by allowing flexible and convenient payment options, this service helps maintain financial liquidity for individuals and businesses, fostering an attractive environment for investments and commercial sectors in Abu Dhabi.
This initiative, which aligns directly with the vision of Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President of the UAE, Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Presidential Court, and Chairman of ADJD, to develop world-class judicial services that enhance Abu Dhabi’s competitiveness both economically and legally, solidifying its position as a prime destination for investment and business.
Legal professionals in Abu Dhabi have welcomed the move, viewing it as a progressive reform that will make litigation more accessible. Byron James, partner at Expatriate Law, described the initiative as a “landmark decision” that will have a tangible impact on individuals and businesses navigating the legal system.
“For many litigants, the upfront cost of legal proceedings can be a significant deterrent to pursuing justice,” James said. “This initiative not only ensures greater access to the courts but also aligns Abu Dhabi’s judicial system with international best practices in making legal recourse more financially viable.”
James added that the reform could be particularly beneficial in family law cases, where financial constraints often influence decisions about pursuing or defending claims. “In family law disputes, particularly those involving international families, access to justice can be hindered by financial pressures,” he noted.
“An interest-free installment system provides much-needed flexibility, allowing parties to focus on achieving fair outcomes rather than being constrained by cost considerations.”
The measure also aligns with broader economic objectives, supporting Abu Dhabi’s positioning as a competitive global hub for investment and business. By reducing the upfront cost of legal proceedings, policymakers hope to encourage a more dynamic legal framework that balances efficiency with accessibility.
Waad Barakat is a Special Correspondent covering security topics, from law enforcement to local courts. With a keen eye for human interest stories, she hopes to blend it all with unique Gen Z-inspired content.