SENIOR COURTS COSTS OFFICE
Strand, London, WC2A 2LL |
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B e f o r e :
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Jennifer Underhill |
Claimant |
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- and – |
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Thackray Williams Solicitors |
Defendant |
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Anahita Zandi (instructed by Thackray Williams Solicitors) for the Defendant
Hearing dates: 02/12/2024
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Crown Copyright ©
Costs Judge Nagalingam:
Is the time ledger accurate?
Did the Claimant agree to time in supervision?
Does the billed work duplicate the fixed fee work?
What did the agreement cover?
"I would estimate the preparation of a pre-action letter and without prejudice letter would take 5-7 hours of time at £210 plus VAT per hour. Please be advised that I would do my best to recover these legal fees during the course of negotiations however, you would principally be responsible for these costs".
"One part of my job in managing your case is to keep a constant eye on the costs situation. I will therefore be keeping costs under regular review, and I will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have at any time"; and
"If it appears that the total costs estimate is likely to be exceeded, I will bring this to your attention at the earliest opportunity and seek your approval before further work is carried out".
"It is difficult to estimate the overall costs you are likely to incur; however, based on my experience in this area of work, I would estimate that my charges could be in the region of £15,000-£20,000 plus VAT".
It is made clear that figure excludes additional charges such as counsel's fees.
Basis of a Solicitor and Client costs assessment
"One part of my job in managing your case is to keep a constant (emphasis added) eye on the costs situation".
"I will therefore keep the costs under regular (emphasis added) review, and I will be happy to discuss any concerns you may have at any time".
"If it appears that the total costs estimate is likely to be exceeded, I will bring this to your attention at the earliest opportunity (emphasis added) and seek your approval before further work is carried out".
Assessment of the bill dated 19 May 2023
Costs of Assessment