If no valid costs agreement exists, what is one possible method to recover costs?

• A. The applicable scale of costs
• B. Through punitive damages
• C. Only via the client
• D. Through a crime of theft

Answer: (A)

Without a valid costs agreement, the way to recover costs is by using the applicable scale of costs. Scales provide a standard tariff set by the court that spells out reasonable charges for each step of the work and for disbursements. This gives a fair, predictable basis for billing even when there’s no bespoke agreement with the client. If the amount is disputed, the issue can be taken to costs assessment or taxation so the court determines the proper sum within the scale. The other options don’t fit: punitive damages are a separate remedy for wrongful conduct, not for recovering legal fees; theft is a criminal act; and costs aren’t recovered exclusively from the client in the manner described by that choice.