At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and assess Bills of Costs, negotiate settlements, and manage costs effectively.
- Company: Join Birketts, a leading law firm with a commitment to equality and inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, private healthcare, and long service holiday awards.
- Other info: Flexible working model with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the legal field while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Strong academic background and at least 3 years' experience in costs law.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Costs Team (Litigation Division), Norwich, Ipswich, Chelmsford, Cambridge, Sevenoaks
Term type: Permanent
Department: Costs Team (Litigation Division)
Location: Norwich, Ipswich, Chelmsford, Cambridge, Sevenoaks
The role you will play:
- Prepare and assess Bills of Costs, draft Points of Dispute and Replies to Points of Dispute, advise clients on settlement parameters and negotiate with opponents.
- Manage costs – prepare Precedent H, Precedent R or simplified costs budgeting equivalent, participate in budget discussions and potentially attend hearings.
- Prepare Statements of Costs.
- Provide ad hoc advice on costs issues.
- Keep abreast of legal updates and provide updates to the wider team.
- Maintain accurate time–costing procedures.
- Ensure compliance with file management.
- Supervise team members.
Please note that this job profile is not an exhaustive list of duties but merely an outline of the key components of the role. You may be required by your line manager to take on additional responsibilities when requested.
What we are looking for:
- A strong academic background.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience.
- Prior supervisory experience an advantage.
- Clear understanding and application of civil procedure rules relating to costs.
- Experience of social housing disrepair and/or Court of Protection preferable.
- Excellent attention to detail together with analytical and organisational skills.
- Committed team player who can adapt well to new challenges.
- Strong ability to work to tight deadlines.
- Ability to use own initiative and show sound judgement.
- Strong IT skills – familiar with Microsoft Office applications and document management skills.
Hybrid Working:
Birketts is a flexible business which has embraced a hybrid working model where our colleagues enjoy a mix of home and office working. This role attracts a split of 60% office days and 40% working from home days per week.
Benefits:
- Long Service holiday award – 1 extra week every 10 years continuous service.
- Private Healthcare with BUPA (offered after probation is passed).
- Staff Profit Share and Individual Performance Bonus Scheme.
- Salary sacrifice (pensions, staff profit share).
- Life Assurance – 4 x salary / Permanent Health Insurance.
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Birketts is committed to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our policy is unequivocal: we do not tolerate discrimination based on age, disability, sex, race, religion or belief, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, or sexual orientation. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive organisation that actively promotes equality of opportunity for all, valuing the right mix of talent, skills, and potential. We welcome applications from a diverse range of candidates, and selection for roles is based solely on individual merit.
Costs Lawyer / Solicitor / Associate in Norwich employer: Birketts LLP
Birketts LLP is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bristol where you can lead and shape a new Residential Real Estate team. With a strong emphasis on client service and business development, employees benefit from flexible hybrid working arrangements, generous holiday allowances, private healthcare, and a robust pension scheme, all fostering a culture of growth and collaboration.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costs Lawyer / Solicitor / Associate in Norwich
✨Get Involved in Law Societies
Join local law societies and attend their events – they're often a goldmine for networking and job opportunities in the legal field. Plus, it’s a great way to meet other budding lawyers and experienced solicitors who could provide vital insights and connections.
✨Tap into Online Legal Communities
Don’t underestimate the power of online platforms like LinkedIn and specific legal forums. Get active in discussions or share your thoughts on recent legal developments – this not only builds your visibility but also showcases your passion and knowledge in law.
✨Attend Career Fairs and Workshops
Look out for career fairs and workshops specifically focused on law. Many law firms, including Birketts LLP, will be scouting for fresh talent, so bring your A-game and don’t shy away from making a memorable impression.
✨Leverage Your University’s Career Services
If you’re still in university or have recently graduated, latch onto your career services! They often have connections with law firms looking for graduates and can guide you through the application process tailored for the legal sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Costs Lawyer / Solicitor / Associate in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Birketts LLP, make sure to demonstrate your understanding of key legal principles and areas of law relevant to the position. Include any specific coursework, modules, or certifications, like LPC or BPTC qualifications, that showcase your legal expertise directly on your CV.
Showcase Your Research Skills:In the legal field, strong research skills are crucial. Use your application to illustrate how you've utilised these skills in past studies or work experiences – whether that's through past internships or significant projects. Mention any legal databases or tools you’re proficient in, as this can give you an edge.
Tailor That Cover Letter!:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make it personal by expressing your genuine interest in Birketts LLP and the specific role of Costs Lawyer / Solicitor / Associate. Talk about why you want to be part of their team, how your unique experiences align with their values, and why you’re passionate about the legal sector.
Stay Formal but Friendly:While we all know the legal world can be pretty formal, don’t be afraid to let a bit of personality shine through in your written application. Use a respectful tone, but feel free to inject a little warmth; this approach can help you stand out and show you're a great fit for Birketts LLP’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Birketts LLP
✨Know Your Legal Principles
Brush up on foundational legal principles relevant to the specific area of law you’re applying for, whether it’s corporate, criminal, or family law. We might get asked situational questions to test your knowledge, so being articulate about key concepts will make you stand out.
✨Be Ready for Case Studies
Full-time legal roles often involve case studies during interviews. Prepare to analyse a hypothetical case and discuss your approach to it. Practising this with a peer or mentor can help us refine our reasoning and articulate a solid legal argument.
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
As legal professionals, strong research skills are a must. Have examples ready of how you've effectively used legal databases or conducted thorough legal research in your past experiences. It's a great way to demonstrate your readiness for the role at Birketts LLP.
✨Exude Professionalism and Confidence
In the legal field, professionalism is key. During the interview, we should maintain good eye contact and communicate clearly to show that we’re not just knowledgeable, but also confident. This can make a positive impression on your potential colleagues at Birketts LLP.
