Junior Costs Negotiator

Davies; Bolton; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Junior Costs Negotiator to join their dynamic Legal team in Bolton. This exciting opportunity is perfect for a motivated individual eager to develop their career in cost handling and negotiation. The role involves assessing and settling claims, drafting essential legal documents, and engaging in settlement negotiations. With full training provided, this position is ideal for those looking to enhance their skills in a supportive environment. Join a collaborative team where your contributions will make a significant impact on case outcomes and client satisfaction.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of cost handling and negotiation.
• Ability to draft legal documents and assess costs claims.

Responsibilities

• Setting strategies and negotiating costs up to £50K.
• Reviewing files and preparing chronologies for case assessments.

Skills

English & Maths GCSE grade A-C / Level 5

IT literacy (Microsoft Office)

Organisational skills

Interpersonal and communication skills

Negotiation experience

Customer service skills

Teamwork ability

Attention to detail

Education

GCSE in English and Maths

Degree or equivalent qualification

Tools

Case management systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Junior Costs Negotiator

Department: Legal

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Bolton

Compensation: £23,000 - £26,000 / year

Description

This role involves assessing and settling claims for costs, managing all procedural aspects up to agreement or assessment.

It is essential that the job holder can quickly review files, formulate initial costs strategies, provide comprehensive advice to clients, initiate early telephone negotiations, and liaise with insurers throughout the case.

The successful candidate should be able to build strong working relationships within the Costs team and the wider business.

This is an exciting opportunity for a junior costs handler with basic knowledge of cost handling and negotiation, seeking to develop their career. Full training and supervision will be provided, so extensive costs experience is not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Setting strategies and negotiating costs up to £50K (expected FA £25K)
• Drafting documents such as:
• Chronology
• Costs Strategy Document
• Points of Dispute
• Interlocutory applications (basic)
• Part 18 requests
• Consent orders

Evidential Reviews and Assessments

• Reviewing files and preparing chronologies
• Assessing costs claims and setting strategies/reserves
• Assessing replies
• Reviewing disclosure and evidence
• Referral for supervision
• Assessing outcomes of Part 35 assessments

Reporting

• Drafting advice on NDA files for clients
• Preparing outcome reports post-case
• Providing case updates to clients and assisting lead

Settlement Negotiations

• Assessing Part 36 offers and settlement proposals
• Negotiating with third parties
• Completing MI, payment requests, and outcome reports
• Ensuring compliance with SRA Standards & Regulations

Skills, Knowledge & Expertise

• English & Maths GCSE grade A-C / Level 5 or equivalent
• IT literacy (Microsoft Office)
• Organisational and multitasking skills
• Interpersonal and communication skills, including negotiation experience
• Customer service skills
• Teamwork and independent working ability
• Initiative and attention to detail, especially in drafting legal documents
• Understanding of client needs and litigation processes
• Proficient in case management systems

Desirable

• Legal office experience
• Experience with case management systems
• Degree or equivalent qualification/experience