James Laughland (Call: 1991) is an experienced costs practitioner and has been involved in this field ever since the leading authority on wasted costs: Ridehalgh v Horsefield [1994]. He has been identified as a leading junior for costs in both Chambers & Partners and the Legal 500 since 2007.

Recent significant costs cases have included BNM v MGN Ltd (CofA, proportionality), Miller v Associated Newspapers Ltd (SC, recoverability of ATE premiums) and Broadhurst v Tan (CofA, Part 36 in fixed costs cases).

The directories have noted that the “impressive” James Laughland is “technically very strong in relation to costs law practice, and is a first class advocate with good judgment and very good on the detail” and that he is “a stand-out barrister at the cutting edge of costs law, with great advocacy skills”.

James regularly advises a leading ATE insurer on costs issues and represents them on challenges to their premiums. He has also acted as a mediator in costs disputes and is trained as an arbitrator. The other areas of James’ practice are personal injury and motor fraud and he is recommended for both in the leading directories.