At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare final claims for costs and support the legal team in billing processes.
- Company: Join GN Law, a dynamic independent law firm in North London.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, hybrid working, 25 days leave, and a bonus scheme.
- Other info: Excellent training opportunities and a vibrant team culture await you.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in legal proceedings while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a Costs Draftsman with strong attention to detail and teamwork skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
About GN Law
GN Law is an independent law firm with a committed team of solicitors, paralegals and support staff. We represent clients locally in North London, and more widely across London and England.
Our specialist areas of law include:
- Family – public and private Children Act proceedings and financial proceedings within divorce
- Court of Protection – safeguarding the rights and interests of vulnerable individuals
- Mental Health – supporting and representing patients detained under the Mental Health Act
- Claims Against Police & Public Authorities – challenging misconduct and abuses of power
- Wills, Trusts & Probate – helping clients plan for their future and the future of their families
About the Role:
We are looking for an experienced Costs Draftsman to deal with all aspects of final billing for publicly funded proceedings. This will include the preparation of final claims for costs for all types of publicly funded cases, the completion of Outcome submissions to the Legal Aid Agency, the submission of final claims and the uploading of supporting documents, assessing Assessment Notifications and considering and preparing any Appeals considered necessary in relation to any fees or disbursements disallowed on assessment. It will be of considerable advantage if the prospective candidate is familiar with Costsmaster software for the preparation of claim documentation.
Main Responsibilities of the Role:
- Report directly to Finance Manager
- Drafting Electronic Bills
- 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 a Costs Draftsman
- Minimum of 2 years legal experience of costs drafting for publicly funded bills
- Worked in a litigation environment and have relevant legal experience within a Costs team
- Experience of handling your own costs caseload from start to finish
- Up to date knowledge of LAA Costs Assessment Guidance
- IT literate including knowledge of using legal case management systems, office 365 and document management skills
- 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 analytical and organizational skills
- Ability to use own initiative and sound judgment
Essential:
- Valid right to work in the UK
- A conscientious, organised, and team-focused approach
Employment Terms:
- Responsible to: The Directors
- Salary: Salary will be competitive and commensurate with experience + entry to bonus scheme
- Pension: Enrolment into GN Law’s pension scheme
- Contract: Permanent, subject to 6-month probation
- Hours: 37.5 hours per week
- Base: GN Law office, Lodge Lane, North Finchley (hybrid-working available)
- Annual leave: 25 days (plus public holidays)
- Maternity/shared parental leave: Enhanced package available
- Notice period: 3 months following probation
Benefits:
- The opportunity to be part of a team of enthusiastic and supportive individuals who enjoy and excel at what they do
- Excellent internal training and support to access external training
- Hybrid working
- 25 days annual leave
- An employee assistance programme delivered by Health Assured, an award-winning wellbeing provider
- Pension scheme
- Enhanced maternity/parental leave package
- A cycle-to-work scheme
- Quarterly and annual bonus scheme
Application Process:
Please send your CV and cover letter to (Applications without a cover letter will not be accepted.) You must demonstrate how you meet all essential criteria. Applicants are encouraged to complete an Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form via our Careers page. This is not used in the selection process. Two-stage interview process: online then in-office. References requested only after a provisional offer is made. Unsuccessful applicants will be informed by email.
Costs Draftsman in London employer: GNLaw
GN Law is an excellent employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, making it an ideal place for a Costs Draftsman to thrive. With competitive salaries, a comprehensive benefits package including hybrid working options, generous annual leave, and a commitment to employee development through internal and external training, GN Law prioritises the well-being and growth of its staff. Located in North Finchley, employees enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere while contributing to meaningful legal work that impacts clients across London and England.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costs Draftsman in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on GN Law. Understand their values, the areas of law they specialise in, and their team culture. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for common interview questions related to costs drafting and your experience. Think about specific examples from your past roles that highlight your skills and achievements. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Dress to impress! Even if the office has a relaxed vibe, it's always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. A smart appearance shows professionalism and respect for the opportunity.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It shows your appreciation for the opportunity and keeps you fresh in their minds. Plus, it’s a chance to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role!
We think you need these skills to ace Costs Draftsman in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter:Make sure your cover letter speaks directly to the role of Costs Draftsman. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. We want to see your personality shine through while keeping it professional!
Showcase Your Skills:In your CV, don’t just list your previous jobs; showcase the skills that make you a great fit for this position. Mention your experience with Costsmaster software and any specific achievements in costs drafting. We love seeing concrete examples of your work!
Be Detail-Oriented:Attention to detail is key in this role, so make sure your application reflects that. Double-check for typos or formatting issues in your CV and cover letter. A polished application shows us you care about the little things, just like we do at StudySmarter!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it’s super easy – just follow the prompts and you’re good to go!
How to prepare for a job interview at GNLaw
✨Know Your Costs Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of costs drafting, especially for publicly funded cases. Familiarise yourself with the LAA Costs Assessment Guidance and be ready to discuss how you've applied this in your previous roles.
✨Show Off Your Software Skills
If you're familiar with Costsmaster software, highlight this during your interview. If not, do a bit of research or even a quick tutorial to understand its basics. Being IT literate is key, so demonstrate your ability to adapt to new systems.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and attention to detail. Think of specific examples from your past experience where you successfully handled a costs caseload or resolved a challenging situation.
✨Be a Team Player
GN Law values collaboration, so be prepared to discuss how you've worked effectively within a team. Share examples of how you've supported junior members or contributed to team goals, showcasing your proactive approach.
