Law Costs Draftsman​/Costs Lawyers

Role:
Law Costs Draftsman / Costs Lawyer

A leading Legal 500 firm and one of the UK’s largest Legal Aid providers is seeking Law Costs Draftsmen to join its established 30‑strong Billing and Costs Department in the City of London.

Gemini Recruitment is partnering with this long‑standing, top‑tier practice, recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. The firm supports both corporate and private clients across 25+ practice areas throughout London and nationwide.

The ideal candidate will be joining an established team of Costs Lawyers/ Draftspersons with offices nationwide to assist and support billing process and recovery to the legal profession. You will have strong technical knowledge and experience of drafting bills and excellent negotiation skills. The company is looking for Law Costs Draftsman with significant Legal Aid experience to 'hit the ground running'.

• Report directly to Manager
• Drafting / preparing inter partes bills of costs, costs budgets; and points of reply/dispute
• Drafting 3 or 6 column Inter partes bills;
• Drafting Electronic Bills;
• To complete service of bills;
• Drafting POD’s/ Replies;
• Conducting Negotiations;
• Drafting Costs Budgets and relevant Precedents;
• Costs for summary assessment;
• Overseeing the Issuing of the Notice of Commencement and associated documents
• Working to deadlines
• Attendance upon Detailed Assessment Hearing as and when necessary
• Providing technical / costs guidance to fee earners where required
• Assist junior members of the team to complete post –assessment work, with training and ad hoc queries
• Maintaining accurate time costing procedures
• Implementing any recommendations made by your supervisor following monthly meetings ensuring that these are dealt with promptly
• Ensuring compliance with file management
• Internal training and reviewing the ongoing costs management process.

• A strong academic background
• Experience as Costs Draftsman
• Minimum of 2 years legal experience in Costs Law namely drafting legal aid and Inter partes bills along with clear understanding and application of the civil procedure rules relating to costs
• Worked in a litigation environment and have some relevant legal experience gained within a Costs team
• Experience of handling your own costs caseload from start to finish
• Costs negotiation skills and experience
• Up to date knowledge of LAA Costs Assessment Guidance, CPR and legislation
• IT literate including knowledge of using costs drafting software e.g. Costs master
• Strong attention to detail
• Committed team player and adapt well to new challenges
• Previous proven supervisory experience an advantage but not requirement
• Professional with a pro‑active approach; excellent client care skills and ability to deal with other professionals and court services
• Excellent networking and communication skills with the ability to successfully market the Company and generate new business
• Excellent analytical and organizational skills
• Ability to use own initiative and sound judgment
• Experience in own advocacy is an advantage
• Excellent IT Skills
  -familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills

• Competitive salary package
• Supportive team environment
• Clear opportunities for career growth
• Hybrid working in line with company policy

We value diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities, ensuring our workforce reflects the communities we serve.

Our recruitment process complies with GDPR and all relevant laws. CRB/DBS checks will confirm your UK work eligibility and role suitability.

Gemini Recruitment is a leading agency specialising in legal placements across the UK. We work closely with Solicitors, Legal Executives, Trainee Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Support Staff, offering deep insight into opportunities in the legal market.