At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a top-tier law firm as a Costs Draftsman, managing claimant costs files and supporting fee earners.
- Company: A leading international law firm with a strong reputation and excellent employee benefits.
- Benefits: Enjoy 37 days holiday, enhanced parental leave, and options for remote work and sabbaticals.
- Why this job: Great opportunity for growth in a supportive environment while working on high-quality cases.
- Qualifications: 3+ years in legal costs, proficient in Costs Master, and able to manage your own caseload.
- Other info: Hybrid work model and professional development support available.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 70000 £ per year.
Job Title: Legal Costs Draftsman or Lawyer
Salary: Up to £50,000 DOE
Location: London, Hybrid.
Hours: Full time.
Overview
Top tier international law firm are looking for an experienced Costs Draftsman to join their expanding department. If you have at least a solid 3 years of experience in Legal Costs and you’re keen to continue, this is not an opportunity to miss. There are endless progression opportunities all while working on high quality files. They are looking for a motivated, driven, friendly person to work closely with the head of Costs. This firm has one of the best employee benefit packages on the market.
Responsibilities:
- Work with the head of costs working on your own varied caseload of claimant costs files while keeping clients and fee earners updated on the progress.
- Assisting fee earners with costs matters related to, Personal Injury, Clinical Negligence, industrial diseases and other more niche areas of Civil Litigation. Aswell as Cost estimates, prospects and budgets.
- Prepare Cost budgets and summary assessment statements, drafting all types of bills of costs, dealing with negotiations maximising costs recovery and attending Costs Management hearings and details assessment hearings.
- Provide general advice and support related to costs.
- Prepare all kinds of Costs documents such as Precedent H/T, Electronic bills, N260, prepare for details assessment proceedings, drafting point of dispute and replies.
Essential Experience:
- Proficient user of Costs Master as well as general IT software such as Excel, Outlook and word.
- At least 3 years’ experience within Costs handling claimant matters within Civil Litigation , PI, Clin Neg etc.
- Ability to run your own busy caseload from start to finish with minimal supervision while prioritising certain tasks. This includes but may not be limited to, drafting bills, negotiations, dealing with Costs Proceedings and Advocacy. Advocacy experience is not essential but is preferred.
- Up to date knowledge of the CPR and Legislations.
- Confident to negotiate and influence.
- Comfortable working to strict deadlines without compromising quality of work and client care.
BENEFICIAL EXPERIENCE
- Ideally you will be ACL qualified.
- Previous experience working in house of a firm of Solicitors.
- Experience managing complex multi-track cost claims.
SOME OF THE BENEFITS:
- Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay. (extended full time paid leave)
- 37 days holiday + Option to work abroad for 2 weeks of the year + Option to take up to 3 month sabbatical
- Qualifications and professional development supported (ACL provided if you are looking to be a qualified costs Lawyer).
- 5% employer pension contribution
- Private health and medicash plus other vouchers and benefits.
- Life assurance 4x annual salary
- Loads more
For more details please contact: cait.woodrow-smith @ Simpsonjudge.co.uk
Job Reference CWS290
Cost Draftsman employer: Simpson Judge
Contact Detail:
Simpson Judge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cost Draftsman
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to highlight your experience with Costs Master and other IT software during your conversations. Being proficient in these tools is crucial for the role, and demonstrating your expertise can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the legal costs field, especially those who work in personal injury and clinical negligence. Attend relevant events or join online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn more about the firm's culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific cases where you've successfully managed a busy caseload. Be ready to share examples of how you prioritized tasks and achieved positive outcomes, as this will demonstrate your ability to handle the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarize yourself with the latest updates in the CPR and relevant legislations. Showing that you are up-to-date with legal changes will not only impress the hiring team but also prove your commitment to the profession.
We think you need these skills to ace Cost Draftsman
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience as a Costs Draftsman, especially your proficiency with Costs Master and your ability to handle claimant matters in Civil Litigation. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your motivation for the role and your understanding of the responsibilities. Mention your experience with cost budgets, negotiations, and any relevant qualifications like ACL.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, emphasize your 3+ years of experience in Legal Costs, particularly in Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence. Discuss your ability to manage a busy caseload and meet strict deadlines.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or typos. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial in the legal field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Simpson Judge
✨Showcase Your Experience
Make sure to highlight your at least 3 years of experience in Legal Costs, especially in areas like Personal Injury and Clinical Negligence. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've handled and the outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Technical Skills
Since proficiency in Costs Master and general IT software is essential, be ready to talk about your experience with these tools. You might even want to mention any specific projects where you utilized Excel or Word effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to manage a busy caseload and prioritize tasks. Think of examples where you successfully navigated tight deadlines while maintaining high-quality work and client care.
✨Express Your Motivation and Fit
The firm is looking for a motivated and friendly person. Share why you're excited about this opportunity and how your values align with the firm's culture and goals, particularly regarding progression opportunities.