Clarion’s team is well regarded for its specialist expertise in costs litigation, litigation funding, and Court of Protection legal costs. The team acts for a diverse client base, including law firms, litigants in person, large corporates, and owner-managed businesses, handling complex matters arising from commercial disputes, serious injury, insolvency, real estate, banking, fraud, and contentious probate. Practice head Andrew McAulay is recognised for his extensive experience in all areas of costs law, particularly solicitor/own client assessments and litigation funding involving CFAs and third-party funding. Stephanie Kaye, who heads the Court of Protection team, prepares high-value bills and handles reassessment requests and detailed assessment hearings. Joanne Chase, who leads the civil and commercial team, is praised for her expertise in drafting complex, high-value bills and her in-depth understanding of costs management orders and their impact at detailed assessment.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘The team is extremely knowledgeable without exception. They are approachable and will work to a tight deadline where needed.’
‘Andrew McAulay is a great leader of the team. His in-depth knowledge of costs is phenomenal. He is a safe pair of hands to guide you through the minefield of costs! Not only that, he is approachable and will always go that extra mile.’
‘The costs team is excellent and always thorough in their work. They are always at the end of the telephone to deal with any questions. They are very knowledgeable about costs issues. The service they provide is always of a high standard.’
‘Joanne Chase and Ellena Hunter - they are my main contacts. Both are approachable, friendly, professional and willing to help. They both keep me updated on all steps and timescales. I know they will do a good job.’
'The team is exceptional. No problem is too small, and they are always keen to find a solution, even in the face of some complex legal arguments. They will not shy away from challenging a decision on an assessed bill where there is cause to do so. The team is knowledgeable, flexible and a pleasure to work with.’
- 'Stephanie Kaye is a powerhouse in the costs world, and the breadth of her knowledge in this area is unmatched. She will spend the time to help you with your query, no matter how small or complex.’
Key clients
- Al Tamimi & Company
- Kingsley Napley
- Osbornes Law
- Taylor Emmet LLP
- Thomson Snell & Passmore
- Walker Morris LLP
- Hodge Jones & Allen
- Anthony Gold
- Bolt Burdon
- CFG Law
- Lanyon Bowdler
- Freeths
Work highlights
Acted for Al Tamimi & Co in the recovery of legal costs following a six million dollar banking dispute in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Courts.
Acted for Schofield Sweeney in the defence of a claim for costs and interest of circa. £1.2 million arising out of high value commercial litigation in the High Court in London. The matter involved a 5-day detailed assessment hearing at the Senior Courts Costs Office and required advice from US Attorneys due to international elements to the legal costs dispute.
Instructed by Taylor Emmet to advise on and prepare a substantial bill of costs in the leading case of CCC v Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The claim is currently before the Supreme Court. The final claim for costs will be in excess of £2m.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Next Generation Partners
Junior partners with significant recognition from clients and peers in the market and key roles on multiple matters.
Stephanie Kaye
Practice head
Andrew McAulay; Stephanie Kaye; Joanne Chase
Other key lawyers
Ellena Hunter; Laura Sugarman