Checklist: Solicitor and Client Costs Assessment—Application, Documents and Timelines under SA 1974 s 70, CPR 46.10 and Part 8 (England and Wales)

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Checklists

This Checklist outlines how to secure an order for assessment of costs owed to a solicitor by their client, together with the steps to be taken. CPR 46.10 sets out the assessment process and identifies the court documents that must be filed.

Timing in which an application for assessment must be made

Section 70 of the Solicitors Act 1974 (SA 1974) provides the route by which either the solicitor or the ‘party chargeable’ (usually the client) may seek assessment of the solicitor’s bill.

When proceeding under SA 1974, s 70, timing is crucial because strict deadlines apply. Whether the invoice has been paid is also material.

Under SA 1974, s 70(1), if the client asks for assessment within one month of delivery of the bill, the solicitor is barred from starting any action on the bill, and the client is entitled to an assessment as of right without paying any sum into court...

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Web page updated on 20/05/2026

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