Costs Lawyer

Costs Lawyer London A highly regarded and well-established specialist law firm is seeking an experienced Costs Lawyer to join its team. The firm has an outstanding reputation within family law and acts for a diverse client base, including high-net-worth individuals, international clients, and legally aided clients across a broad range of complex matters. This is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated and motivated professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is looking to join a collaborative and supportive team. Key Responsibilities The successful candidate will be responsible for: • Drafting a variety of legal aid claims and bills, including High Cost Case Plans. • Preparing inter partes bills of costs and schedules of costs. • Drafting Points of Reply and Costs Budgets. • Negotiating settlements of costs. • Providing support and guidance to fee earners and billing teams on costs-related matters. • Delivering training where required and assisting with compliance and file management procedures. Requirements To be considered for this role, candidates should have: • A minimum of 3 years’ experience working as a Costs Lawyer, either in-house or within a specialist costs practice. • Strong experience handling both privately funded and legally aided matters. • Comprehensive knowledge of all levels of legal aid funding, from Legal Help through to Full Certificates. • Experience working with fixed fee schemes, enhancements, and legal aid rates. • Proven expertise in preparing High Cost Case Plans and negotiating with the Legal Aid Agency (LAA). • Knowledge and practical experience of the statutory charge. • Proficiency in costs drafting software, such as CostsMaster. • Experience managing a full costs caseload independently from inception through to conclusion. • Excellent communication, organisational and IT skills, with strong attention to detail. • Up-to-date knowledge of LAA Costs Assessment Guidance, the CPR, relevant legislation and case law. • The ability to work autonomously with minimal supervision. • Experience of contested costs assessments would be advantageous. What's on Offer • A supportive, collaborative and friendly working environment. • The opportunity to work within a highly respected specialist law firm. • Exposure to high-quality and varied costs work. • Competitive salary and benefits package.