Trainee Law Costs Draftsperson

Location: Wooburn Green, Buckinghamshire (Hybrid working considered post-training)
Salary: £22,000 per annum (first year)
Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent
Application Deadline: 18 April 2025
Interview Date: From 23 April 2025

About TMC Legal
Established in 2005, TMC Legal Limited is a specialised legal costs practice with nearly two decades of expertise in inter-partes costs recovery. We’re a small, friendly team working primarily with London-based clients on a diverse portfolio of cases—from housing disrepair to high-profile clinical negligence and civil liberties/human rights matters.

Role Overview
We seek a motivated Trainee Costs Draftsperson to join our growing team. This role primarily involves drafting bills of costs while offering structured training in legal costs billing and management. For the right candidate demonstrating aptitude and commitment, we offer funded progression toward the Costs Lawyer Qualification (CLQ) after 18 months. You’ll develop expertise in drafting, negotiating, and recovering legal costs while working closely with senior costs lawyers and our prestigious client base.

Key Responsibilities

  • Prepare detailed bills of costs for court assessment under CPR 47 (primary focus)
  • Analyse solicitors’ files to compile Precedent H budgets and costs schedules
  • Negotiate settlements with opposing parties via email and telephone
  • Liaise with solicitors and counsel’s chambers
  • Provide general assistance to senior team members
  • Use Excel extensively for bill and budget preparation
  • Assist with advocacy preparation for detailed assessment hearings

Requirements

  • Essential:
    • Grade B/6 or above in GCSE Mathematics and English
    • High proficiency in Microsoft Excel
    • Excellent written English skills
    • Strong analytical skills
    • Ability to work independently while meeting deadlines
    • Professional communication skills for client, opponent and counsel interactions
    • Team player with attention to detail and quality focus
  • Desirable:
    • Some prior legal experience
    • A-Levels or equivalent in Law, Business, or Finance
    • Interest in pursuing the Costs Lawyer Qualification

Training & Benefits

  • Funded CLQ Training: Fully sponsored Costs Lawyer Qualification via the Association of Costs Lawyers after 18 months (for suitable candidates)
  • Flexible Working: Hybrid model available after 6 months
  • Additional Perks:
    • 20 days’ annual leave + bank holidays
    • Performance-based bonuses after 12 months
    • Workplace pension scheme
    • Small, friendly team environment with a relaxed but professional culture

How to Apply
Submit your CV and a brief cover letter detailing your Excel proficiency and interest in costs law to danielle@tmclegal.co.uk by 18 April 2025.

Early applications are encouraged—interviews will commence from 23 April 2025.

Equal Opportunities Statement
We welcome applications from all backgrounds, including career changers and non-law graduates. TMC Legal is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where talent thrives.