Magistrates’ Courts Rules: Amendments to Fees and Tariffs Gazetted

Posted 27 February 2026 Written by Acts Online
Category Courts

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Department of Justice & Constitutional Development has gazetted amendments to the rules governing Magistrates’ Courts, specifically focusing on the adjustment of fees and tariffs.

Under the authority of the Rules Board for Courts of Law Act, No. 107 of 1985, the Rules Board has revised the Rules Regulating the Conduct of the Proceedings of the Magistrates’ Courts of South Africa. These amendments update the prescribed tariffs for legal practitioners and court-related services, ensuring that the cost recovery mechanisms remain aligned with current economic conditions.

The revised schedules are set to come into force on 27 March 2026. This significant lead time is intended to allow legal practices, the Office of the State Attorney, and court administrative offices to align their financial systems, billing protocols, and fee estimates with the new regulatory requirements.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: Review the updated tariff schedules to ensure accurate time-recording and fee estimation for future Magistrates’ Court matters that will conclude or reach billing milestones after the 2026 commencement date.
  • For your business: Update internal accounting systems and automated billing software to incorporate the new fee structures prior to the 27 March 2026 implementation date to avoid non-compliance with court-ordered cost awards.
  • For your clients: Provide updated cost estimates for long-running litigation or new instructions that will be subject to the new tariff regime upon its commencement.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/magistrates-courts-rules-more-amendments-gazetted

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