• 01616 966 229
  • Request a callback
Stephensons Solicitors LLP Banner Image

Senior Costs Drafter

Reference Code:

ACDSCD

Location:

Leigh with a move to Wigan

Main purpose of the job:

To assist in providing a costings service to the firm/client, which enables departments/client to have their files properly finished and billed and those bills submitted to the relevant bodies for payment. 

Responsible to:

Department assistant manager

Main key result areas

  • Provides support to departments/client in preparing claims for payment. Prepares costs schedules for negotiation, solicitor client bills and gross sum bills, schedules for summary assessment, costs estimates. Prepares and deals with bills for detailed assessment, points of dispute, points of reply, and all other steps/documents within the costs process or that a case may require.
  • Ensures the firm/client gets paid the maximum amount possible on every file
  • Work closely with the fee earner/client to effect swift and accurate payment/settlement
  • Ensures that files are satisfactorily finished, where necessary disbursements paid and files closed/returned according to procedures laid down in the department/client.
  • Ensures that payments are allocated to the correct file/matter when funds are received.
  • Ensures firm/client instructions and requirements are followed and KPI’s met.

Person specification

Qualifications

 

Minimum qualifications - 5 G.C.S.E’s or equivalent at grade C, including maths and english, (relevant work experience may be considered as an alternative)

Essential

Experience

 

Experience of working as a costs drafter

Essential

Experience of drafting bills/schedules of costs

Essential

Experience of drafting points of reply

Essential

Experience of costs management to include preparation of budgets and budget discussion reports.

Essential

Experience of negotiating/evaluating offers

Essential

Experience of providing advice on costs issues

Essential

Experience of researching costs law

Essential

Experience of dealing with clients/obtaining instructions

Essential

Experience of working in a solicitor’s office

Desirable

Member of ACL

Desirable

Experience of drafting LSC bills, claim 1’s, claim 1A’s, points of dispute

Desirable

Experience of attending hearings

Desirable

Knowledge and skills

 

Demonstrates ability to prioritise work to ensure agreed service levels of maintained.

Essential

Numeracy, literacy

Essential

Good standard of I.T. literacy and keyboard skills

Essential

Influencing skills

Essential

Good communication skills both face to face and over the telephone.

Essential

Organisational/time management skills

Essential

Accuracy and attention to detail

Essential

Working to deadlines

Essential

Ability to work productively amidst frequent interruptions

Essential

Personality / Other Qualities

 

Pleasant, approachable, patient and polite

Essential

Ability to work in a highly confidential environment

Essential

Smart and tidy appearance

Essential

Ability to work as part of a team

Essential

Adaptability and flexibility

Essential

Ability to work without close supervision/ on own initiative

Essential

Ability to hit the ground running

Essential

Ability to draft a bill of costs, points of reply, budgets and other costs documents without supervision

Essential

Confidence in influencing over the telephone

Essential

Please do not send enquiries to the department manager of the specific team.