Principles of costs recovery

Note: the extended fixed recoverable costs (FRC) regime applies to most civil claims that are issued on or after 1 October 2023 with a claim value not exceeding £100,000. The same principles apply in respect of costs recovery generally but the successful party’s costs are fixed in accordance with the provisions set out in CPR 45 and CPR PD 45. For further information on FRC, see: Fixed costs—overview.

Glossary and costs precedents

The following content provides an introduction to some key resources in this area:

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for a costs glossary, see Practice Note: Costs glossary
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for costs precedents, see Practice Note: Costs precedents

Indemnity costs principle

The indemnity costs principle provides that a party is not entitled recover more costs than they have incurred. For guidance, see Practice Note: Costs and the indemnity principle.

General principles of costs recovery

Costs recovery is governed by several principles starting with the application of the general rule. The following content covers costs recovery in various circumstances:

Cost orders—the general rule and the court's discretion

The general rule on costs recovery is that

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