Costs Negotiator

Costs Negotiator

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Douglas Scott Ltd

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Negotiate fixed costs disputes and manage a varied caseload in a supportive team.
  • Company: Leading legal firm with a progressive and collaborative environment.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, career development support, and opportunities for professional qualifications.
  • Other info: Great potential for career growth and professional advancement.
  • Why this job: Join a dynamic team and enhance your skills in cost negotiation and legal processes.
  • Qualifications: 2-5 years of experience in costs matters and strong communication skills.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Cost Negotiator

The Role

We are working with a leading legal client who is looking to appoint an experienced Cost Negotiator to join their established costs team.

This is an excellent opportunity for a Cost Negotiator with experience in fixed costs disputes to join a supportive and progressive environment, handling a varied caseload and developing their expertise within costs.

The role will involve reviewing inter partes disputes, preparing persuasive arguments, negotiating settlements, and assisting with matters through to summary and detailed assessment.

Key Responsibilities

  • Managing a caseload of fixed costs matters from initial review through to resolution.
  • Reviewing and negotiating fixed costs disputes.
  • Preparing correspondence, Costs Schedules, Part 23 Applications, Part 8 Proceedings, skeleton arguments, and written submissions.
  • Securing payments on account of costs where appropriate.
  • Reviewing costs schedules and bills with a view to negotiating and settling costs claims.
  • Preparing bills, Replies to Points of Dispute, and supporting documentation.
  • Drafting Part 8 and Part 23 proceedings.
  • Preparing cases for costs assessment hearings.
  • Attending costs hearings where appropriate.
  • Providing technical support on fixed costs disputes.
  • Liaising with fee earners, management, and wider teams.
  • Supporting colleagues and contributing to the continued development of the costs function.
  • Maintaining high standards of client care and service delivery.

The successful candidate will have

  • A strong working knowledge of fixed costs claims and the wider costs process.
  • Good understanding of CPR costs procedures, relevant Pre-Action Protocols, and case law relating to fixed costs disputes.
  • 2–5 years’ experience handling costs matters and working towards targets.
  • Experience preparing matters for costs hearings, with advocacy experience desirable but not essential.
  • Strong commercial awareness and a professional approach.
  • Excellent communication, organisation, and time management skills.
  • Ability to manage workloads effectively and work under pressure.
  • Strong IT skills, with experience using costs management systems such as Cost Master, Excel, and case management systems desirable.

The role offers excellent career development opportunities, including support towards professional qualifications and further progression within costs for the right candidate.

Salary

£30,000 - £40,000 depending on experience.

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Costs Negotiator employer: Douglas Scott Ltd

Douglas Scott Ltd is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant city of London, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation within the finance team. Employees benefit from competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and ample opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a meaningful impact in legal aid cost recovery. Join us to be part of a supportive environment where your contributions are valued and your career can flourish.

Douglas Scott Ltd

Contact Details:

Douglas Scott Ltd Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Costs Negotiator

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.

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Leverage Your University’s Career Services

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We think you need these skills to ace Costs Negotiator

Communication Skills
Problem-Solving Skills
Flexibility
Organizational Skills
Compassion
Adaptability
Teamwork

Some tips for your application 🫡

Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Douglas Scott Ltd, 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 Douglas Scott Ltd and the specific role of Costs Negotiator. 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 Douglas Scott Ltd’s culture!

How to prepare for a job interview at Douglas Scott Ltd

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 Douglas Scott Ltd.

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 Douglas Scott Ltd.