At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to draft and negotiate legal costs with a focus on Legal Aid.
- Company: Duncan Lewis, a leading law firm committed to diversity and equal opportunities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Embrace diversity and enjoy a workplace that reflects the communities we serve.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the legal field while developing your skills in a collaborative setting.
- Qualifications: Minimum 2 years of experience in Costs Law and strong negotiation skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The ideal candidate will be joining an established team of Costs Lawyers/ Draftspersons with offices nationwide to assist and support the 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’.
Main Responsibilities of the Role:
- 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
- Completing 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
- Assisting 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.
Key Skills Required:
- 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. Costsmaster
- Strong attention to detail
- Committed team player and adapt well to new challenges
- Previous proven supervisory experience an advantage but not a 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
Recruitment Process and Compliance:
The recruitment process will fully comply with GDPR and other applicable laws. Background checks including CRB / DBS checks will establish your eligibility to work in the UK and suitability to the role.
Equal Opportunities:
Duncan Lewis is committed to Equal Opportunities and embraces diversity of its staff. The Company strives to ensure that our staff reflects the diversity of the communities we serve, which is reflective at all levels within our workforce. We guarantee an interview for candidates that disclose a disability and meet the essential requirements for the post. Please provide additional details in your covering letter if this applies.
APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED BY AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED FOR THE ABOVE VACANCY.
Costs Draftsman / Lawyers – Inter Partes Draftsperson in London employer: Duncan Lewis
Duncan Lewis is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Costs Draftsmen in the legal sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ongoing training and opportunities for career advancement, ensuring that our team members thrive in their roles. Located in a diverse community, we embrace inclusivity and offer a workplace that reflects the values of the clients we serve, making it a meaningful place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costs Draftsman / Lawyers – Inter Partes Draftsperson in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the legal field, especially those who work with Costs Draftsmen. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings that aren't even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your negotiation skills. Since this role involves a lot of discussions around costs, being able to demonstrate your expertise in this area will really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your tech-savviness! Familiarise yourself with costs drafting software like Costsmaster and be ready to discuss how you've used it in past roles. This will show potential employers that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to connect directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Costs Draftsman / Lawyers – Inter Partes Draftsperson in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience as a Costs Draftsman. Focus on your legal aid experience and any specific skills that match the job description, like drafting inter partes bills and costs negotiation.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the role. Mention your strong technical knowledge and how you can hit the ground running in our team.
Show Off Your Skills:Don’t forget to showcase your IT skills and familiarity with costs drafting software like Costsmaster. We want to see how you can bring your expertise to our established team!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Duncan Lewis
✨Know Your Costs Law Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of costs law, especially regarding legal aid and inter partes bills. Familiarise yourself with the civil procedure rules and any recent changes in legislation. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Show Off Your Drafting Skills
Prepare examples of your previous work, particularly any inter partes bills or costs budgets you've drafted. Be ready to discuss your drafting process and how you ensure accuracy and compliance with regulations. This will showcase your technical skills and attention to detail.
✨Practice Negotiation Scenarios
Since negotiation skills are crucial for this role, consider practising common negotiation scenarios you might face. Think about how you would handle disputes or push back on costs. This will help you articulate your approach during the interview and show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Be a Team Player
Highlight your experience working in a team environment and how you've supported junior members or collaborated with colleagues. Share specific examples of how you've contributed to team success, as this role requires a committed team player who can adapt to new challenges.
