Costs Associate in Manchester

Job description

The Role

An opportunity has arisen at a leading law firm for an experienced Costs Associate to join its specialist Costs Team within the wider Disputes Group. This role offers the chance to work across a diverse and high-profile caseload spanning commercial, finance, real estate, construction, insolvency, and intellectual property disputes.

You’ll be part of a dedicated legal costs team recognised for its technical excellence, commercial focus, and ability to advise on complex, high-value, and multi-jurisdictional matters. The team operates internationally, regularly supporting FTSE100 clients and their global counterparts, and works in close collaboration with litigation teams to deliver commercially focused solutions at every stage of the case lifecycle.

Day to day, you will advise on all aspects of legal costs, from initial budgeting and reserving through to conclusion whether recovering or disputing costs. You’ll be responsible for preparing detailed and summary assessment documents, including bills of costs, N260 schedules, and precedent forms, as well as drafting Points of Dispute and Replies. You will also provide strategic input into settlement discussions and liaise with both internal legal teams and clients to deliver tailored, high-quality advice.

The Candidate

• Extensive experience in all stages of detailed assessment and costs management
• Strong drafting skills for budgets, bills, points of dispute/reply, and court forms
• Experience advising on costs settlements and monitoring legal spend
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively across teams
• High attention to detail with the ability to meet tight deadlines under pressure
• A strategic mindset with the ability to handle complex legal issues and manage multiple stakeholders
• A proactive approach to process improvement, innovation, and client service

The Benefits

• Competitive salary up to £80,000 based on experience
• Flexible hybrid working model
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
• Private medical insurance
• Company pension
• Continuous training and development opportunities
• Inclusive and supportive team culture

Contact: Alice Ferguson, Retained Consultant INDAF

Direct Dial: 0161 826 3140 Mobile: 07496 800 407

Email: alice.ferguson@williamjamesrecruitment.com

Extra information

Status

Open

Education Level

Secondary School

Location

Manchester

Type of Contract

Part-time jobs

Published at

11-08-2025

Full UK/EU driving license preferred

No

Car Preferred

No

Must be eligible to work in the EU

No

Cover Letter Required

No

Languages

English