What is important when challenging costs?
- Recognising exaggerated and/or excessive claims
Our experience enables us to distinguish between those claims which are reasonable and those which are simply excessive. We have the benefit and experience of acting for both Claimants and Defendants. On average we reduce claims by over 30% and without having to produce points of dispute.
- Identifying key issues and proper preliminary points of law
We do not use standard letters or arguments. Our advice to our clients is based on the facts of their case. The issues raised and offers advanced represent an educated and calculated consideration.
- A quick and efficient service
Around 80% of our cases are settled with quick and effective negotiations and without having to draft points of dispute.
- Recognising the weaknesses in your opponent’s case
Having prepared and defended many Bills, we can quickly identify the issues relating to the costs claimed and present you with clear advice regarding the options available.
- Realistic assessment of the risk and costs benefit
We know when it is not proportionate or cost effective to continue fighting. We will give you open and honest advice, putting ourselves in your clients’ shoes.
- A robust approach to negotiations
We will not spend hours in protracted stepping stone negotiations. If a negotiated settlement is possible, we will be aggressive in concluding this as soon as possible.
- An effective and confident Advocate, should the matter proceed to Court
Where a negotiated settlement is not possible, our team has lots of experience in conducting Detailed Assessments. We have appeared before District Judges, Regional Costs Judges and Masters in a number of Courts across the Country. We have appeared in the Senior Courts Costs Office on many occasions and whilst maintaining a professional and courteous approach at all times, we will vigorously attack or defend the costs in question.
We provide the following services:
- Challenging any claim for costs
- Negotiating settlements
- Points of Dispute
- Skeleton Arguments on points of law
- Opposing Interim Costs Applications
- Advocacy
- Agency services for Advocacy
- Audits and compliance reviews