At a Glance
- Tasks: Assess Court of Protection bills and ensure fair cost evaluations.
- Company: Join HM Courts and Tribunals Service, a key player in the justice system.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days annual leave, flexible working, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns available; great career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the justice system while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Must be a current Civil Servant or accredited NDPB employee.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This vacancy is only available to existing Civil Servant employees and employees of accredited non‑departmental public bodies (NDPBs). Please review the "Eligibility" section before you apply.
General Information
- Working Pattern: Full Time, Part Time, Part Time/Job Share, Flexible Working
- Location: London
- Closing Date: 06-Jul-2026
- Post Type: Permanent
- HEO: 3 positions
- Reserve List: 12 Months
- Job ID: 19082
Description & Requirements
HM Courts and Tribunals Service is responsible for the administration of the criminal, civil and family courts and tribunals in England and Wales. We work with an independent judiciary to provide a fair, efficient and effective justice system.
The key purpose of the role is to assess Court of Protection bills of costs in a fair and reasonable manner and to deal with all the follow‑up matters as required. The post holder will need to be self‑motivated, confident in decision making, able to prioritise work and have good communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Assess allocated Court of Protection bills of costs.
- Exercise a high degree of technical expertise and judgment in approving and assessing costs arising under Part 44 to 47 of the Civil Procedure Rules.
- Work as part of a team to ensure delivery of a consistent and customer‑focussed service.
- Develop and maintain an effective working relationship with the judiciary, colleagues and external customers.
- Conduct detailed assessments of Court of Protection bills up to £42,000.
- Produce written responses to requests for reconsideration of decisions made.
- Check, issue and dispatch all final costs certificates.
- Assist colleagues with complex matters or queries.
- Deal with enquiries by telephone or in person from practitioners or other parties.
- Maintain daily, weekly and monthly statistics.
- Maintain good knowledge of relevant judicial precedents and judgments.
- Work in a flexible way and undertake any other duties reasonably requested by line management.
- Report to the Court of Protection Senior Costs Officer.
- Receive extensive training in conducting assessments and reconsiderations.
Other Duties
The post holder is required to work in a flexible way and undertake any other duties reasonably requested by line management which are commensurate with the grade and level of responsibility of this post.
Working Hours
Standard full‑time working hours are 37 hours per week. HMCTS welcomes part‑time, flexible and job‑sharing working patterns, where they meet the demands of the role and business needs and are agreed prior to appointment.
Benefits
- Annual leave: 25 days on appointment, increasing to 30 after five years.
- Leave trading scheme: up to three days per year.
- Additional paid time off for public holidays and one privilege day.
- Pro‑rated leave for part‑time and job‑share posts.
- Pension: Choice of Civil Service pension schemes.
- Training: Extensive range of training and development opportunities.
Eligibility
Existing Civil Servant employees and employees of accredited NDPBs.
EEO Statement
All employees will be treated fairly and with respect, free of discrimination or harassment.
Interview Stage Assessments
Interview Dates: Expected to commence at the end of July 2026.
Behaviours assessed: Making Effective Decisions, Communicating and Influencing, Delivering at Pace.
Security: DBS Basic, Counter Terrorism Check (CTC).
Costs Officer in London employer: Ministry of Justice
HM Courts and Tribunals Service is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that values flexibility and professional growth. Located in the prestigious Royal Courts of Justice in London, employees benefit from extensive training opportunities, generous annual leave, and a commitment to work-life balance, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in public service.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Costs Officer in London
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Ministry of Justice, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Ministry of Justice and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Costs Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Ministry of Justice and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ministry of Justice
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Ministry of Justice, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Ministry of Justice.
