Jekk jogħġbok innota li l-verżjoni bil-lingwa oriġinali ta' din il-paġna il-Latvjan ġiet emendata reċentement. Il-verżjoni tal-lingwa li qed tara bħalissa attwalment qed tiġi ppreparata mit-tradutturi tagħna.

Case study 1 - family law - divorce - Latvia

In this case study on family law (divorce), Member States were asked to advise the party filing for divorce on litigation fees in the following situations:

Case A. National scenario: a couple gets married. Later they separate and agree to a divorce.

Case B. International scenario: two nationals from the same Member State (Member State A) get married. The marriage is celebrated in Member State A. After the wedding, the couple moves to live and work in another Member State (Member State B) where they establish their residence. Shortly thereafter the couple separates with the wife returning to Member State A and the husband remaining in Member State B. The couple agrees to a divorce. Upon her return to Member State A, the wife immediately files for a divorce before the courts of Member State B.

Fees in Latvia

Court, appeal and alternative dispute resolution fees

Case

Court

Appeal

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fee

Other fees

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fee

Other fees

A

LVL 100

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 100

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

B

LVL 100

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 100

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

Advocate, bailiff and expert fees

Case

Advocate

Expert

Is representation compulsory?

Average fees

Is use compulsory?

Fees

A

No.

Natural persons may represent themselves in court or be represented by an authorised party

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

N.B. fees relating to an advocate’s legal assistance in civil proceedings can be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

B

No.

Natural persons may represent themselves in court or be represented by an authorised party

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

N.B. fees relating to an advocate’s legal assistance in civil proceedings can be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

Case

Bailiff

Is representation compulsory?

Pre-judgment fees

Post-judgment fees

A

No

Not applicable

Not applicable

B

No

Not applicable

Not applicable

Fees for witness compensation, pledges or security and other relevant fees

Case

Witness compensation

Pledges or security

Are witnesses compensated?

Fees

Do these exist and when and how are they used?

Fees

A

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If a person has reason to believe that the submission of necessary evidence on their behalf may be rendered impossible or hampered at a later stage, they may ask for this evidence to be secured.

LVL 20 (if the application is submitted prior to bringing the case).

B

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If a person has reason to believe that the submission of necessary evidence on their behalf may be rendered impossible or hampered at a later stage, they may ask for this evidence to be secured.

LVL 20 (if the application is submitted prior to bringing the case).

Fees for legal aid and other reimbursement

Case

Reimbursement

If fees are not reimbursed in full, what percentage is usually reimbursed?

What fees are not reimbursed?

A

In delivering a judgment in a divorce case, the court divides court fees between the parties, taking into account their financial situations.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse the court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

B

In delivering a judgment in a divorce case, the court divides court fees between the parties, taking into account their financial situations.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse the court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

Translation and interpretation fees

Case

Translation

Interpretation

Other fees specific to cross-border disputes

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

Description

Approximate fees

A

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in the court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

Translation is provided by the court.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgment has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not expired.

Not applicable.

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

B

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in the court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

Translation is provided by the court. Where evidence is gathered abroad the actual translation fee must be covered.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgment has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not expired.

Not applicable.

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

Last update: 28/09/2022

The national language version of this page is maintained by the respective Member State. The translations have been done by the European Commission service. Possible changes introduced in the original by the competent national authority may not be yet reflected in the translations. The European Commission accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to any information or data contained or referred to in this document. Please refer to the legal notice to see copyright rules for the Member State responsible for this page.

Jekk jogħġbok innota li l-verżjoni bil-lingwa oriġinali ta' din il-paġna il-Latvjan ġiet emendata reċentement. Il-verżjoni tal-lingwa li qed tara bħalissa attwalment qed tiġi ppreparata mit-tradutturi tagħna.

Case study 2 - family law - custody of the children - Latvia

In this case study on family law (custody of children), Member States were asked to advise the suing party on litigation fees in the following situations:

Case A. National scenario: two persons have lived together unmarried for a number of years. Their child is three years old when they decide to separate. A court decision grants custody of the child to the mother and access rights to the father. The mother sues to limit the father’s access rights.

Case B. International scenario where you are an advocate in Member State A: two persons have lived together unmarried in Member State B for a number of years. They have a child together but separate immediately after the child’s birth. A court in Member State B grants custody of the child to the mother and access rights to the father. The mother and the child move to live in another Member State (Member State A) as authorised by the court, and the father remains in Member State B. A few years later, the mother sues in Member State A to change the father’s access rights.

Fees in Latvia

Court and appeal fees

Case

Court

Appeal

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fees

Other fees

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fees

Other fees

A

LVL 50

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 50

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

B

LVL 50

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 50

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

Advocate, bailiff and expert fees

Case

Advocate

Bailiff

Is representation compulsory?

Average fees

Is representation compulsory?

Pre-judgment fees

Post-judgment fees

A

No.

Natural persons may represent themselves in court or be represented by an authorised party.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

N.B. fees relating to an advocate’s legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

Not applicable.

Fees for the services of a bailiff are only incurred where one of the parties fails to observe the access arrangements ordered by the court and one of the parties has to initiate enforcement of the court order:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2 (payable by the claimant);

2) the remuneration for a certified bailiff is LVL 93.70 (covered by the defaulting party);

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment (covered by the defaulting party).

B

No.

Natural persons may represent themselves in court or be represented by an authorised party

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

N.B. fees relating to an advocate’s legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

Not applicable.

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2 (payable by the claimant);

2) the remuneration for a certified bailiff is LVL 93.70 (covered by the defaulting party);

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment (covered by the defaulting party).

Case

Expert

Is use compulsory?

Fees

A

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

B

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

Fees for witness compensation, pledges or security and other relevant fees

Case

Witness compensation

Pledges or security

Are witnesses compensated?

Fees

Do these exist and when and how are they used?

Fees

A

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If a person has reason to believe that the submission of necessary evidence on their behalf may be rendered impossible or hampered at a later stage, they may ask for this evidence to be secured.

LVL 20 (if the application is submitted prior to bringing the case).

B

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If a person has reason to believe that the submission of necessary evidence on their behalf may be rendered impossible or hampered at a later stage, they may ask for this evidence to be secured.

LVL 20 (if the application is submitted prior to bringing the case).

Reimbursement of fees

Case

Reimbursement

Is the successful party eligible for reimbursement of litigation fees?

If fees are not reimbursed in full, what percentage in usually reimbursed?

What fees are not reimbursed?

A

Yes.

The party in whose favour a judgment is made may recover all the court fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

B

Yes.

The party in whose favour a judgment is made may recover all the court fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

Translation and interpretation fees

Case

Translation

Interpretation

Other fees specific to cross-border disputes

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

Description

Approximate fees

A

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

Translation is provided by the court.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgment has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not expired.

Not applicable.

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

B

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

Translation is provided by the court. Where evidence is gathered abroad the actual translation fee must be covered.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgment has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not expired.

Not applicable.

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

Last update: 28/09/2022

The national language version of this page is maintained by the respective Member State. The translations have been done by the European Commission service. Possible changes introduced in the original by the competent national authority may not be yet reflected in the translations. The European Commission accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to any information or data contained or referred to in this document. Please refer to the legal notice to see copyright rules for the Member State responsible for this page.

Jekk jogħġbok innota li l-verżjoni bil-lingwa oriġinali ta' din il-paġna il-Latvjan ġiet emendata reċentement. Il-verżjoni tal-lingwa li qed tara bħalissa attwalment qed tiġi ppreparata mit-tradutturi tagħna.

Case study 3 - family law - alimony - Latvia

In this case study on family law (alimony) Member States were asked to advise the suing party on litigation costs in the following situations:

Case A. National scenario: two persons have lived together unmarried for a number of years. Their child is three years old when they decide to separate. A court decision grants custody of the child to the mother. There is an ongoing dispute between the two parties regarding the amount of alimony owed to the mother by the father for the support and education of the child. The mother sues on this point.

Case B. international scenario where you are an advocate in Member State A: two persons have lived together unmarried in Member State B for a number of years. They have a three-year-old child. They separate. A court decision in Member State B grants custody of the child to the mother. With the agreement of the father, the mother and the child move to live in another Member State (Member State A), which becomes their place of permanent residence.

There is an ongoing dispute between the two parties regarding the amount of alimony owed to the mother by the father for the support and education of the child. The mother sues on this point in Member State A.

Fees in Latvia

Court, appeal and alternative dispute resolution fees

Case

Court

Appeal

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fees

Other costs

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fees

Other costs

A

LVL 50

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 50

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

B

LVL 50

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 50

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

(The claimant is exempted from paying this fee. Court costs in such a case are recovered from the defendant for the benefit of the State.)

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

Advocate, bailiff and expert fees

Case

Advocate

Is representation compulsory?

Average fees

A

No.

Natural persons may represent themselves in court or be represented by an authorised party.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

N.B. fees relating to a advocate's legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

B

No.

Natural persons may represent themselves in court or be represented by an authorised party.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

N.B. fees relating to a advocate's legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

Case

Bailiff

Expert

Is representation compulsory?

Pre-judgment fees

Post-judgment fees

Is use compulsory?

Fees

A

No.

Not applicable.

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2;

2) a certified bailiff's remuneration depends on the amount of the debt at the start of enforcement proceedings;

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment.

The claimant is exempted from paying fees for the enforcement of a decision. These costs are recovered from the defendant.

No.

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

B

No

Not applicable

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2;

2) a certified bailiff's remuneration depends on the amount of the debt at the start of enforcement proceedings;

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment.

The claimant is exempted from paying fees for the enforcement of a decision. These fees are recovered from the defendant.

No

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

Fees for witness compensation, pledges or security and other relevant fees

Case

Witness compensation

Pledges or security

Are witnesses compensated?

Fees

Do this exist and when and how are they used?

Fees

A

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If there is reason to believe that enforcement of a court judgment might subsequently be hampered or rendered impossible, the court or judge may, on reasoned request of the applicant, make a decision on securing the claim.

Where an application to secure the claim has been made, 0.5 % of the amount of the claim, but no less than LVL 50.

B

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If there is reason to believe that enforcement of a court judgment might subsequently be hampered or rendered impossible, the court or judge may, on reasoned request of the applicant, make a decision on securing the claim.

Where an application to secure the claim has been made, 0.5 % of the amount of the claim, but no less than LVL 50.

Fees for legal aid and other reimbursement

Case

Reimbursement

Is the successful party eligible for reimbursement of litigation fees?

If fees are not reimbursed in full, what percentage in usually reimbursed?

What fees are not reimbursed?

A

Yes.

The party in whose favour a judgment is made may recover all the court fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

B

Yes.

The party in whose favour a judgment is made may recover all the court fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

Translation and interpretation fees

Case

Translation

Interpretation

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

A

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

Where evidence is gathered abroad, translation fees are covered in full.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgment has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not expired.

Not applicable.

B

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

Where evidence is gathered abroad, translation fees are covered in full.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgment has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not expired.

Not applicable.

Case

Other fees specific to cross-border disputes

Description

Approximate fees

A

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

B

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

Last update: 28/09/2022

The national language version of this page is maintained by the respective Member State. The translations have been done by the European Commission service. Possible changes introduced in the original by the competent national authority may not be yet reflected in the translations. The European Commission accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to any information or data contained or referred to in this document. Please refer to the legal notice to see copyright rules for the Member State responsible for this page.

Jekk jogħġbok innota li l-verżjoni bil-lingwa oriġinali ta' din il-paġna il-Latvjan ġiet emendata reċentement. Il-verżjoni tal-lingwa li qed tara bħalissa attwalment qed tiġi ppreparata mit-tradutturi tagħna.

Case study 4 - commercial law - contract - Latvia

In this case study on commercial law (contract), Member States were asked to advise the seller on litigation fees in the following situations.

Case A. National scenario: a company has delivered EUR 20 000 worth of goods. The seller has not been paid because the buyer does not believe the goods comply with the terms of the contract.

The seller decides to sue to obtain full payment for the goods.

Case B. International scenario: a company whose head offices are located in Member State B has delivered EUR 20 000 worth of goods to a buyer in Member State A. The contract is subject to the laws of Member State B and is drawn up in the language of Member State B. The seller has not been paid because the buyer, who is located in Member State A, does not believe the goods comply with the terms of the contract. The seller decides to sue in Member State A in order to obtain full payment for the goods.

Fees in Latvia

Court, appeal and alternative dispute resolution fees

Case study

Court

Appeal

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fee

Other fees

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fee

Other fees

A

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

B

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

Case study

Alternative dispute resolution

Can this be used in this specific case?

Fees

A

Parties may agree that the dispute be submitted to a court of arbitration.

Court of arbitration fees and/or fees associated with examination of the dispute and arbitrator's fee.

The fees associated with the arbitration court proceedings, along with the payment deadline and procedure, are determined by the court of arbitration depending on the amount of the claim, the complexity of the dispute and the terms of the court of arbitration's agreement.

B

Parties may agree that the dispute be submitted to a court of arbitration.

Court of arbitration fees and/or fees associated with examination of the dispute and arbitrator's fee.

The fees associated with the arbitration court proceedings, along with the payment deadline and procedure, are determined by the court of arbitration depending on the amount of the claim, the complexity of the dispute and the terms of the court of arbitration's agreement.

Advocate, bailiff and expert fees

Case study

Advocate

Bailiff

Is representation compulsory?

Average fees

Is representation compulsory?

Pre-judgment fees

Post-judgment fees

A

Legal entities may be represented in court by professionals acting in accordance with the law, by representatives provided for in the statutes or articles of association of those legal entities, or by other authorised representatives.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

NB: fees relating to a advocate's legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

Where a decision is reached about securing the claim:

1) for securing of a claim by seizure of funds from credit institutions or third parties: LVL 46.90;

2) for securing of a claim by ordering the defendant to desist from the activity in question: LVL 26

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2;

2) the remuneration for a certified bailiff depends on the amount of the debt which has accumulated at the time legal proceedings began;

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment.

B

Legal entities may be represented in court by professionals acting in accordance with the law, by representatives provided for in the statutes or articles of association of those legal entities, or by other authorised representatives.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

NB: fees relating to a advocate's legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

Where a decision is reached about securing the claim:

1) for securing of a claim by seizure of funds from credit institutions or third parties: LVL 46.90;

2 for securing of a claim by ordering the defendant to desist from the activity in question: LVL 26.

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2;

2) the remuneration for a certified bailiff depends on the amount of the debt which has accumulated at the time legal proceedings began;

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment.

Case study

Expert

Is use compulsory?

Fees

A

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

B

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

Fees for witness compensation, pledges or security and other relevant fees

Case study

Witness compensation

Pledges or security

Are witnesses compensated?

Fees

Do these exist and when and how are they used?

Fees

A

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If there is reason to believe that enforcement of a court judgment might subsequently be hampered or rendered impossible, the court or judge may, on reasoned request of the applicant, make a decision on securing the claim.

0.5 % of the sum of the claim, where an application is made to secure the claim, but no less than LVL 50.

B

Yes

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If there is reason to believe that enforcement of a court judgment might subsequently be hampered or rendered impossible, the court or judge may, on reasoned request of the applicant, make a decision on securing the claim.

0.5 % of the sum of the claim, where an application is made to secure the claim, but no less than LVL 50.

Fees for legal aid and other reimbursement

Case study

Reimbursement

Is the successful party eligible for reimbursement of litigation fees?

If fees are not reimbursed in full, what percentage is usually reimbursed?

What fees are not reimbursed?

A

Yes

The party in whose favour a court judgment is made may recover all the fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse the court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

B

Yes.

The party in whose favour a court judgment is made may recover all the fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse the court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

Case study

Translation

Interpretation

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

A

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The Court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

No fixed fees set, fee agreed upon.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgement has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not yet expired.

Not applicable.

B

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The Court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

No fixed fees set, fee agreed upon.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgement has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not yet expired.

Not applicable.

Translation and interpretation fees

Case study

Other fees relating to disputes?

Description

Approximate fees

A

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

B

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

Last update: 28/09/2022

The national language version of this page is maintained by the respective Member State. The translations have been done by the European Commission service. Possible changes introduced in the original by the competent national authority may not be yet reflected in the translations. The European Commission accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to any information or data contained or referred to in this document. Please refer to the legal notice to see copyright rules for the Member State responsible for this page.

Jekk jogħġbok innota li l-verżjoni bil-lingwa oriġinali ta' din il-paġna il-Latvjan ġiet emendata reċentement. Il-verżjoni tal-lingwa li qed tara bħalissa attwalment qed tiġi ppreparata mit-tradutturi tagħna.

Case study 5 - commercial law - responsibility - Latvia

In this case study on commercial law (contract), Member States were asked to advise the seller on litigation fees in the following situations.

Case A. National scenario: a company has delivered EUR 20 000 worth of goods. The seller has not been paid because the buyer does not believe the goods comply with the terms of the contract.

The seller decides to sue to obtain full payment for the goods.

Case B. International scenario: a company whose head offices are located in Member State B has delivered EUR 20 000 worth of goods to a buyer in Member State A. The contract is subject to the laws of Member State B and is drawn up in the language of Member State B. The seller has not been paid because the buyer, who is located in Member State A, does not believe the goods comply with the terms of the contract. The seller decides to sue in Member State A in order to obtain full payment for the goods.

Fees in Latvia

Court, appeal and alternative dispute resolution fees

Case study

Court

Appeal

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fee

Other fees

Fee for submitting application to court

Clerical fee

Other fees

A

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

B

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

LVL 394.90

Copying: LVL 0.12

Certified copy: LVL 0.61

1) Fees associated with examination of the case.

2) Litigation fees.

Case study

Alternative dispute resolution

Can this be used in this specific case?

Fees

A

Parties may agree that the dispute be submitted to a court of arbitration.

Court of arbitration fees and/or fees associated with examination of the dispute and arbitrator's fee.

The fees associated with the arbitration court proceedings, along with the payment deadline and procedure, are determined by the court of arbitration depending on the amount of the claim, the complexity of the dispute and the terms of the court of arbitration's agreement.

B

Parties may agree that the dispute be submitted to a court of arbitration.

Court of arbitration fees and/or fees associated with examination of the dispute and arbitrator's fee.

The fees associated with the arbitration court proceedings, along with the payment deadline and procedure, are determined by the court of arbitration depending on the amount of the claim, the complexity of the dispute and the terms of the court of arbitration's agreement.

Advocate, bailiff and expert fees

Case study

Advocate

Bailiff

Is representation compulsory?

Average fees

Is representation compulsory?

Pre-judgment fees

Post-judgment fees

A

Legal entities may be represented in court by professionals acting in accordance with the law, by representatives provided for in the statutes or articles of association of those legal entities, or by other authorised representatives.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

NB: fees relating to a advocate's legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

Where a decision is reached about securing the claim:

1) for securing of a claim by seizure of funds from credit institutions or third parties: LVL 46.90;

2) for securing of a claim by ordering the defendant to desist from the activity in question: LVL 26

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2;

2) the remuneration for a certified bailiff depends on the amount of the debt which has accumulated at the time legal proceedings began;

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment.

B

Legal entities may be represented in court by professionals acting in accordance with the law, by representatives provided for in the statutes or articles of association of those legal entities, or by other authorised representatives.

Individuals work with a certified advocate on the basis of an agreement.

NB: fees relating to a advocate's legal assistance in civil proceedings may be recovered from the unsuccessful party at a rate of no more than 5 % of the part of the claim that is allowed or, in non-material claims, at the standard rate for advocates.

No.

Where a decision is reached about securing the claim:

1) for securing of a claim by seizure of funds from credit institutions or third parties: LVL 46.90;

2 for securing of a claim by ordering the defendant to desist from the activity in question: LVL 26.

Where a judgment is not enforced voluntarily:

1) the State fee for submitting a written enforcement order is LVL 2;

2) the remuneration for a certified bailiff depends on the amount of the debt which has accumulated at the time legal proceedings began;

3) other fees relating to the enforcement of a judgment.

Case study

Expert

Is use compulsory?

Fees

A

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

B

A court orders an expert examination where this is requested by one of the parties and where clarification of facts relevant to the case calls for specialist knowledge in the field of science, technology, art, etc.

In accordance with Cabinet regulations.

Fees for witness compensation, pledges or security and other relevant fees

Case study

Witness compensation

Pledges or security

Are witnesses compensated?

Fees

Do these exist and when and how are they used?

Fees

A

Yes.

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If there is reason to believe that enforcement of a court judgment might subsequently be hampered or rendered impossible, the court or judge may, on reasoned request of the applicant, make a decision on securing the claim.

0.5 % of the sum of the claim, where an application is made to secure the claim, but no less than LVL 50.

B

Yes

If none of the parties is exempted from paying court fees, they agree on the amount to be paid to a witness, based on the calculation procedure, this being incremented by administrative expenses.

The exception is where the law states that the court has an obligation to gather and obtain evidence.

The following are compensated in accordance with Cabinet regulations:

1 ) travel expenses;

2) accommodation;

3) average earnings.

If there is reason to believe that enforcement of a court judgment might subsequently be hampered or rendered impossible, the court or judge may, on reasoned request of the applicant, make a decision on securing the claim.

0.5 % of the sum of the claim, where an application is made to secure the claim, but no less than LVL 50.

Fees for legal aid and other reimbursement

Case study

Reimbursement

Is the successful party eligible for reimbursement of litigation fees?

If fees are not reimbursed in full, what percentage is usually reimbursed?

What fees are not reimbursed?

A

Yes

The party in whose favour a court judgment is made may recover all the fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action.

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse the court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

B

Yes.

The party in whose favour a court judgment is made may recover all the fees incurred from the other party.

Where a claim is met in part, the plaintiff's fees are reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that has been met. The defendant is reimbursed in proportion to the part of the claim that was dismissed in the action

Where the plaintiff discontinues an action, he or she must reimburse the court fees incurred by the defendant. Where this happens, the defendant does not reimburse the court fees paid by the plaintiff. However, following submission of the application, if the plaintiff withdraws his or her claim because it has been met by the defendant on a voluntary basis, at the request of the plaintiff his or her fees are recovered by means of a court order.

Case study

Translation

Interpretation

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

When and under what conditions is it necessary?

Approximate fees

A

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The Court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

No fixed fees set, fee agreed upon.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgement has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not yet expired.

Not applicable.

B

Court proceedings are conducted in the official State language.

The Court honours the rights of parties (other than representatives of legal persons) who do not have a command of the language used in court proceedings. This means allowing case material to be examined and enabling participation in court hearings using an interpreter's services.

No fixed fees set, fee agreed upon.

The court may decide to explain its judgment without changing its substance if requested to do so and where the judgement has not yet been executed and the period for its enforcement has not yet expired.

Not applicable.

Translation and interpretation fees

Case study

Other fees relating to disputes?

Description

Approximate fees

A

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

B

The parties to the proceedings submit documents in a foreign language along with the certified translation into the State language required by law.

Not determined.

Last update: 28/09/2022

The national language version of this page is maintained by the respective Member State. The translations have been done by the European Commission service. Possible changes introduced in the original by the competent national authority may not be yet reflected in the translations. The European Commission accepts no responsibility or liability whatsoever with regard to any information or data contained or referred to in this document. Please refer to the legal notice to see copyright rules for the Member State responsible for this page.