Are you ready for a new challenge? Do you want to use your expertise to make a difference and help uphold standards in your profession? Do you want to volunteer but do not have the time for a permanent role on a committee?  

The Lawyers Complaints Service of the New Zealand Law Society Te Kāhui Ture o Aotearoa needs costs assessors. This is an important role which is fundamental to the fair and efficient processing of costs complaints. Expert practitioners in relationship property, trusts and estates, property, and litigation are especially needed.    

As a costs assessor you work under delegation from a Lawyers Standards Committee. Your role is to review the lawyer’s file and the information provided by the parties to the complaint and undertake an analysis of the bill of costs. You prepare a report for the Standards Committee about the fee charged and whether, in your opinion, it is fair and reasonable. You will advise the Standards Committee about any other relevant issues you identify in your analysis.  

Training is provided (via a prerecorded webinar) and you will be supported throughout the process. Availability for one or two assessments a year is the usual commitment required.  

If you are interested or would like more information please contact Warrick Hickman, Northern Team Leader at the Lawyers Complaints Service at warrick.hickman@lawsociety.org.nz.