The LAA have provided updating data regarding the reasons why costs claims are being rejected when submitted by firms. At Kutter Walters we pride ourselves on our ability to ensure that claims are submitted correctly the first time, resulting in quicker payments for our clients and avoiding KPI rejects which could ultimately affect a firm’s ability to renew their contract with the LAA. It is vital to ensure that all claims contain the correct supporting evidence.
There is no denying that the LAA requirements, even for very small claims, can be significant. In-depth knowledge of the Costs Assessment Guidance and Electronic Handbook are vital to ensure smooth processes are in place for your legal aid billing.
The data provided is as follows:
1. Civil Bill Rejects: Breakdown of reasons for CCMS
December 2019 & January 2020
Reject Name and Reject %
• Disbursement voucher missing or incomplete – 31% • Claim submitted prematurely without the – 8% • corresponding claim from the solicitor or council (2) At provider request – 7% • Counsel’s fees under FAS do not reconcile – 5% • Claim submitted prematurely without the – 5% corresponding claim from the solicitor or counsel • Disbursement voucher missing or incomplete (2) – 4% • Issues with a court assessed claim, such as court – 4% papers missing or FAS claim not itemised • Court order not present for Disbursement – 3% • FAS – Incorrect Hearing Unit/Fee Claimed – 3% • Advocates attendance Form missing or – 3% incomplete
2. Civil Bill Rejects: Breakdown of Reasons for Paper Claims
December 2019 and January 2020
Reject Name and Reject %
• Priority reject – 29% • Further information – 6% • Out of scope work allowed by court – 5% • Further information – file – 4% • Not completed where marked – 4% • Reconciliation counsel’s fees/FAS-claim 1A – 3% • Statutory charge – further information – 3%Provide disbursement voucher – 3% • Form not signed – 3% • Voucher/invoice insufficient detail – 3%
3. Civil Bill Reject Update: What’s Happening with Disbursements?
Of all the reasons for rejections for missing or incomplete vouchers, our data sampling shows the top 5 themes, account for nearly 50% of all these rejects are:
• Incomplete or unclear psychologist fees -17% • Missing court fees – 12% • Missing travel vouchers account for – 11% • Medical reports – 4% • Incomplete independent social worker – 4%
