Additional expenses (‘Disbursements’)
Disbursements are costs arising in connection with the matter that are payable to third parties, such as: counsel’s fees, expert’s fees, courier costs, travel costs, etc. which are not included in our legal fees.
For the majority of guilty plea summary only offences, the only disbursements which apply relate to travelling costs where the case is being heard outside Birmingham.
Disbursements are more likely to apply in not guilty plea cases as, for example, experts may be called to conduct alcohol back calculations, lung function tests and drug calculations, etc. The cost of any disbursements varies significantly from matter to matter depending on the type of work involved and the amount of time involved. Also, some disbursements attract VAT at 20% while others do not. In most cases, disbursements will be in the region of £1000 to £3000. Where VAT applies, this would typically be between £200-£600.
Please note that if the case is not being dealt with at Birmingham Magistrates’ Court, you may also be charged for our travel costs such as train fares, parking charges or mileage at £0.45p per mile (plus £0.09 per mile VAT).
If counsel is instructed to conduct the trial, counsel’s fees will also be classed as a disbursement. These typically range from between £500 – £1500 (plus VAT of £100 – £300 at 20%), depending on the nature and complexity of the matter.
