Costs Lawyer Services: Advice, Disputes and Representation

Recovering costs, challenging a substantial bill or preparing for a hearing requires specialist judgement. You need to understand what is recoverable, which procedures apply and whether further expenditure is justified.

ARC Costs’ qualified costs lawyers support solicitors, businesses and individuals across England and Wales. We assist with claims for costs, budgeting, negotiation and representation, including complex clinical negligence and commercial litigation matters.

Whether you need advice on one dispute or ongoing support, we can discuss the work required, proposed charges and deadlines.

Call 01204 397302 or email info@arccosts.co.uk.

When should you instruct a costs lawyer?

A costs lawyer advises on costs law and can undertake specified reserved legal activities relating to costs, within their authorised scope. This includes conducting costs litigation and representing clients in court.

You may need assistance when an opponent disputes your claim, a bill exceeds expectations or negotiations have stalled. Early advice can identify procedural risks and help you decide whether to settle or proceed.

We examine the documents and circumstances before recommending the appropriate service.

How our costs lawyers help

Recovering costs

We review the relevant order, funding arrangements and records, prepare costs documents and negotiate with the paying party. Where objections arise, we assess their merits and advise on responses.

Our advice considers the recoverable amount alongside the expense and uncertainty of continuing.

Challenging costs

A claim may include disputed rates, excessive time, duplication or work outside the order. We examine the bill, prepare reasoned objections and advise on settlement.

If you have received a Notice of Commencement, supply it promptly so the response deadline can be checked.

Budgeting and litigation support

We prepare budgets, review opponents’ estimates and assist with budget discussions. Our costs lawyers can also provide representation at costs and case management hearings.

As litigation develops, we can advise on whether significant changes require budget revisions.

Legal aid and solicitor–client disputes

ARC assists with legal aid costs claims and reviews of solicitor–client charges. These instructions may involve different assessment routes from disputes between opposing parties.

We consider the retainer, funding arrangements and procedural position before advising.

Meet Our Costs Lawyers

Thomas Higginbottom — Director and Costs Lawyer

Thomas qualified as a costs lawyer in 2024 after completing the Legal Practice Course, he decided to complete the Association of Costs Lawyers (ACL) Costs Lawyer Course. He is now regulated by the Costs Lawyer Standards Board (CLSB). He advises receiving parties on bills, budgets and negotiations in all areas of law.

Regulation and professional conduct

The Costs Lawyer Standards Board regulates costs lawyers in England and Wales and sets the professional standards they must meet.

The Costs Lawyer Code of Conduct establishes principles governing their practice. Compliance with the lawyer code of conduct forms part of their professional obligations, alongside applicable practising and continuing development requirements.

For clients, regulation provides a framework of accountability when choosing a legal service.

Costs lawyers and costs draftsmen: the difference

Costs draftsmen prepare costs documents and may assist with negotiations. The title alone does not establish regulated status or independent authorisation to conduct litigation.

ARC combines experienced legal costings support with qualified costs lawyer oversight. We explain whether your matter needs drafting, advice, negotiation or representation.

Instruct ARC Costs

Send the relevant order, bill, correspondence and details of any deadline. For budgeting, include proposed directions and information about anticipated work.

Call 01204 397302 or email info@arccosts.co.uk to discuss your matter.