BL-2023-BRS-000024 - [2025] EWHC 2898 (Ch)

I turn to consider the costs schedule filed by the defendants’ solicitors. According to the schedule, four fee-earners worked on this case, two partners a solicitor and one other fee-earner. Both partners are claimed as grade A, that is, more than eight years’ experience as a solicitor. The other fee-earners are grade B (more than four years’ experience as a solicitor) and D (trainee solicitors and paralegals). The hourly rates claimed are £1,205 for one partner (A), £860 for the other partner (B) and one of the other fee-earners (C), and £350 for the other (D). The total notional profit costs shown in the schedule are £334,829, including £232,390 in respect of work done on documents. Notional counsel’s fees for Mr Brown are shown as £32,500 for advice, and £26,000 for the two-day hearing. The grand total is £393,329. (No VAT is payable.)