Pay 'security for costs'

After you apply, the Election Petitions Office will tell you how much to pay for 鈥榮ecurity for costs鈥�. The maximum is:

  • 拢5,000 for a UK Parliament election
  • 拢2,500 for a local government election
  • 拢1,500 for a parish council election

You can pay cash or give the names of up to 4 people (鈥榮ureties鈥�) who will guarantee to pay. You must do this within 3 working days of handing in the petition.

You鈥檒l usually get the 鈥榮ecurity for costs鈥� back if you win the case.

You might have to pay more if you lose the case or you decide to stop it.