Costs Advisor

DWF Law LLP; Birmingham; Hybrid; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global law firm is seeking an experienced Costs Draftsperson to join their Costs team. The successful candidate will prepare detailed Bills of Costs in compliance with legislation and case law. Key responsibilities involve drafting costs, reviewing case files, negotiating settlements, and maintaining accurate records. Candidates should have proven experience, knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules, and proficiency in costs drafting software. The role offers a hybrid working arrangement and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Qualifications

• Experience in a law firm or costs consultancy.
• Knowledge of CPR, particularly Parts 44 and 47.
• Organizational skills for managing time effectively.

Responsibilities

• Draft Bills of Costs for detailed assessment.
• Prepare schedules of costs for summary assessment.
• Review case files to extract information.
• Liaise with fee earners for accuracy.
• Negotiate and settle costs with opposing parties.
• Prepare Points of Dispute and Replies.
• Keep up with changes in costs law.
• Prepare costs hearings and assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and compliance.

Skills

Proven experience in drafting Bills of Costs

Strong knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR)

Familiarity with costs budgeting and management

Proficiency in costs drafting software

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong organizational and time management abilities

Ability to work independently and as part of a team

Tools

CostsMaster

Job description

Why join us?

DWF are seeking an experienced Costs Draftsperson to join our DWF Costs team.

The successful candidate will be responsible for preparing detailed and accurate Bills of Costs in accordance with relevant legislation, practice directions, and case law. This role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of the cost’s recovery process in civil litigation.

The role is hybrid, and we are open to the successful individual working from any of our England based offices.

Responsibilities

• Draft Bills of Costs for detailed assessment, including inter parties, legal aid, and solicitor-client matters.
• Prepare schedules of costs for summary assessment.
• Review and analyse case files to extract relevant information for cost drafting.
• Liaise with fee earners to clarify case details and ensure accuracy in cost documentation.
• Conduct negotiation and settlement of costs with opposing parties.
• Prepare Points of Dispute and Replies where necessary.
• Keep up to date with changes in costs law, CPR, and relevant case law.
• Prepare costs hearings and assessments.
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with internal procedures and external regulations.

What will help you succeed in this role?

Essential

• Proven experience in drafting Bills of Costs, within a law firm or costs consultancy.
• Strong knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR), particularly Parts 44 and 47.
• Familiarity with costs budgeting and costs management processes.
• Proficiency in costs drafting software (e.g., CostsMaster)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organizational and time management abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

What we offer?

We are committed to ensuring that each member of our team feels valued and duly rewarded during their time at DWF.

We are an equal opportunities employer that celebrates diversity and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all. We aim to create a positive experience for all candidates and offer any adjustments or additional support needed. If you're excited about the opportunity but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with all the requirements, please apply anyway. You may be the right candidate for the role or others across the wider team.

About us

DWF is a leading global provider of integrated legal and business services. Our approach delivers efficiency, price certainty and transparency for our clients across the world without compromising on quality or service. Our purpose is to deliver positive outcomes with our colleagues, clients and communities and we foster a culture that places our colleagues at the centre of all that we do.