The Law Society invites applications for the posts of solicitor assessors to advise in costs appeals in the High Court.

Applications are sought from qualified solicitors with a current practising certificate and at least six years' post qualification experience of litigation.

Applicants must currently be in practice with demonstrable experience in a particular practice area.

Experience is required largely in civil litigation, but also in crime and family work.

Familiarity with the civil procedure rules and in particular with the costs rules and practice direction is essential.

Applicants should also be abreast of recent developments in case law, but a detailed knowledge is not necessary.

Advocacy experience is an advantage.

Assessors are chosen on the basis of their expertise and are appointed pursuant to CPR part 35.

Assessors are remunerated on a sessional basis, the current rates being equivalent to those paid to deputy masters.

Assessors would not usually be asked to attend more than three assessments per year, but this is dependent on the size of the panel.

Women and people from ethnic minorities are currently under-represented and are encouraged to apply.

A full job description is available from Zoe Watson at the Law Society, 113 Chancery Lane, London WC2A 1PL, DX 56 London/Chancery Lane (zoe.watson@lawsociety.org.uk); or telephone 0207 242 1222.

Applications by covering letter and CV should be received by 14 January 2004.