Senior Fixed Costs Draftsperson

Job Purpose:

The position will involve working within the firms Technical Costs Department – reviewing fixed costs files, considering and making offers, negotiating settlement, preparing costs schedules and negotiating costs, predominantly RTA. The role involves:

• Reviewing and negotiating fixed costs and bringing cases to a conclusion in a timely matter;
• Drafting Costs Schedules, Part 23 Applications and Part 8 Proceedings when necessary;
• Attending hearings of applications within the fixed costs team
• Liaising with fee earners and management
• Providing assistance to other team members as and when required

Key Duties & Responsibilities:

• Manage a caseload of RTA Claimant fixed costs cases
• Ensure that the quality of work produced is to the highest standard
• Reviewing costs schedules/bills with a view to negotiating Claimants costs, generally disputed fixed costs cases, and settling costs files in a timely manner from cradle to grave
• Negotiating settlement of costs and reporting terms of settlement
• Preparing bills/Part 23 Applications and/or Replies to Points of Dispute in fixed costs cases
• Drafting Part 8 Proceedings
• Proceeding with matters to a Provisional Assessment
• Attending hearing of Part 23 Applications and reporting outcomes
• Technical support to the fixed costs team generally
• Dealing with Third Party Solicitors and insurers on a day to day basis
• Maintaining the highest client care standards
• Administrative duties within the department

Experience & Knowledge:

• A detailed working knowledge of fixed costs claims and the costs process
• Ability to conduct costs hearings on fixed costs matters
• Must be used to dealing with cases requiring a prompt turnaround.
• Good commercial awareness and a professional attitude.
• Ability to work to time scales and cope under pressure
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work within a team.
• Excellent time management skills
• Good IT skills, including Excel and experience of using a case management system preferable but not essential