Consider outcomes
Some mistakes are not apparent until the final bill which means we must reject it to get the outcome reported correctly.
When the outcome is complex, for example a cost award, refer to the Reporting Outcomes / Discharge including with a Cost or Damages Award Guide, available on the Legal Aid Learning Website.
Check counsel claims
Check that counsel fees have been paid before submitting your fixed fee bill. If counsel has outstanding claims, we can’t process your final claim.
Access the ‘Case Statement of Account’ screen in CCMS to see how much counsel has been paid on the case.
Uploading multiple documents
Multiple documents take you time to upload (and us to check). Grouping documents such as court orders, in a single upload, can save time.
Submit bill narrative
Summarise the case and explain anything out of the ordinary. Provide any extra detail, such as details of solicitor or expert travel, or unequal apportionment.
Identify work clearly
‘Pleadings’ is often used to cover a range of tasks. Sometimes, it is more appropriate to use ‘Preparation – Other’ and detail the work claimed.
Check Family Advocacy Scheme (FAS) evidence
Ensure all information and evidence is legible. Sometimes attendance times are covered by court stamps. If not legible, upload another form of evidence, such as an attendance note, or make a note in the narrative.
Remote hearing evidence fees
Ensure all required information is included in the court order. This should include confirmation of any lunch adjournment, advocate’s bundle size and applicable bolt-ons.
If any information is missing, upload another form of evidence, such as an attendance note.
The Remote Hearings guidance outlines what evidence you need to submit and how to calculate the fee.
Explain expert fees properly
Provide a breakdown of work and travel expenses. This should include details of travel locations and the number of journeys.
Highlight or mark any relevant parts of a court order. For example, if the court has ordered additional advocates meetings, uneven apportionment or specific expenses such as drug / alcohol testing or transcription services.
Claim appeals correctly
The appeal bill should be for the value of the reduced amount only, not a resubmission of the whole bill. Follow the guide on the Legal Aid Learning website.
Exceptional case claims
Check hourly rates for all exceptional case claims.
Make sure they reflect the correct level of service.