At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to draft legal costs and negotiate effectively.
- Company: Top-tier Legal 500 firm with a strong reputation in Legal Aid.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and clear career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the legal field while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: 2+ years of experience in Costs Law and strong negotiation skills.
- Other info: Supportive environment that values diversity and inclusivity.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A leading Legal 500 firm and one of the UK's largest Legal Aid providers is seeking Law Costs Draftsmen to join its established 30‐strong Billing and Costs Department in the City of London. Gemini Recruitment is partnering with this long‐standing, top‐tier practice, recognised by The Legal 500 and Chambers & Partners. The firm supports both corporate and private clients across 25+ practice areas throughout London and nationwide.
The ideal candidate will be joining an established team of Costs Lawyers/ Draftspersons with offices nationwide to assist and support 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
- To complete 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
- Assist 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 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
What's on Offer:
- Competitive salary package
- Supportive team environment
- Clear opportunities for career growth
- Hybrid working in line with company policy
Our Commitment:
We value diversity, inclusivity, and equal opportunities, ensuring our workforce reflects the communities we serve. Our recruitment process complies with GDPR and all relevant laws. CRB/DBS checks will confirm your UK work eligibility and role suitability.
About Gemini Recruitment:
Gemini Recruitment is a leading agency specialising in legal placements across the UK. We work closely with Solicitors, Legal Executives, Trainee Solicitors, Paralegals, and Legal Support Staff, offering deep insight into opportunities in the legal market.
Law Costs Draftsman / Costs Lawyers in London employer: Gemini Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Gemini Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Law Costs Draftsman / Costs Lawyers in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other legal professionals, attend industry events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about job openings before they even hit the market.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills in interviews! Prepare to discuss your experience with drafting bills and negotiating costs. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you've tackled challenges in your previous roles – this will help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere; focus on firms that align with your values and career goals. Check out our website for opportunities at top-tier practices like the one we’re partnering with. Tailor your approach to each firm to show them why you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping you fresh in the interviewer's mind. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and gives you another chance to highlight your key skills.
We think you need these skills to ace Law Costs Draftsman / Costs Lawyers in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Law Costs Draftsman. Highlight your experience with drafting bills and your knowledge of legal aid, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that showcase your skills in negotiation and costs management.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for our team. Mention your passion for costs law and how your previous experiences align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Show Off Your Technical Skills: We’re looking for someone with strong IT skills, especially with costs drafting software. Make sure to mention any relevant software you’ve used and how it has helped you in your previous roles. This will show us you’re ready to hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at StudySmarter!
How to prepare for a job interview at Gemini Recruitment
✨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 latest LAA Costs Assessment Guidance and CPR to show that you're not just a candidate, but a well-informed expert ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've successfully handled. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your ability to navigate complex discussions and highlight your strong negotiation skills, which are crucial for this role.
✨Demonstrate Team Spirit
As a committed team player, be prepared to share experiences where you've collaborated effectively with colleagues. Highlight how you’ve assisted junior members or contributed to team success, as this will resonate well with the firm's supportive environment.
✨Be Ready for Technical Questions
Expect questions about specific software like Costsmaster and your experience with drafting bills. Brush up on your IT skills and be ready to discuss how you maintain accurate time costing procedures, as this will show your attention to detail and technical proficiency.