At a Glance
- Tasks: Support detailed cost assessments and manage multiple deadlines in a dynamic legal environment.
- Company: Join a leading law firm known for its collaborative culture and high-value disputes.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, structured training, and a focus on professional development.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with active networks and a commitment to belonging.
- Why this job: Make an impact in high-stakes disputes while growing your legal expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in legal costs assessment and strong organisational skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 65000 £ per year.
Location: Manchester
Salary: £45,000 to £65,000 + bonus and benefits
Experience: Costs experience within disputes (junior to mid-level)
Our client is looking to recruit a Costs Lawyer into its specialist Costs Team, supporting the wider Disputes Group in Manchester. This is a great opportunity for a forward-thinking costs professional who enjoys technically strong work and wants broad exposure across commercial, finance, real estate, construction, insolvency and IP disputes. The team supports high-value matters and is known for delivering commercially focused, practical advice.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Supporting all stages of detailed assessment, including drafting bills, points of dispute and points of reply, and assisting with hearings
- Supporting costs management work, including drafting precedent H budgets, precedent R discussion reports, and precedent T forms for budget variations
- Preparing N260 schedules of costs for summary assessments
- Assisting with schedules of costs for payments on account and for arbitrations
- Supporting settlement strategy by helping prepare advice on settlement parameters
- Liaising with fee earners across the Disputes Group to manage expectations and support efficient delivery
- Ensuring compliance with relevant procedural rules and regulations
- Managing multiple deadlines and delivering accurate work within agreed timeframes
What We’re Looking For
Essential
- Strong understanding of legal costs assessment and costs management processes
- Experience assisting with costs drafting and costs documentation (including detailed assessment work)
- Excellent attention to detail, organisation and time management
- Confidence working across multiple workstreams and meeting deadlines
- Clear communication style and a collaborative approach
Desirable
- Experience supporting on complex, high-value disputes
- Interest in innovation and legal technology to improve efficiency and accuracy
What’s On Offer
- Salary of £45,000 to £65,000 + bonus and benefits
- High-calibre work across a broad disputes practice
- Supportive, collaborative culture with strong investment in development
- Structured training, mentoring and progression support
- A genuinely inclusive environment with active networks and a focus on belonging
Working Arrangements
Manchester. Full-time, permanent role.
Next Steps
Apply online or send your CV to lee.hawthorne-finch@h-fts.com or call 0333 996 2882 for more information. All applications will be handled in strict confidence.
Costs Lawyer in Manchester employer: Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions
Join a leading firm in Manchester as a Costs Lawyer, where you will be part of a supportive and collaborative culture that prioritises employee development and inclusivity. With a competitive salary and the opportunity to work on high-calibre disputes across various sectors, this role offers meaningful career growth and the chance to engage with innovative legal practices. Enjoy a workplace that values your contributions and fosters a sense of belonging among its team members.
Contact Details:
Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costs Lawyer in Manchester
✨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 Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions, 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 in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Legal Knowledge:When applying for a full-time role in legal services at Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions, 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 Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions and the specific role of Costs Lawyer. 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 Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions’s culture!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions
✨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 Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions.
✨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 Hawthorne-finch Talent Solutions.
