The Matrimonial Causes (Costs) Rules 1988

Powers of registrars in relation to misconduct, neglect etc.

16.—(1) Where, whether or not on a reference by the court under rule 14(2), it appears to the registrar when taxing a bill of costs that any thing has been done, or that any omission has been made, unreasonably or improperly by or on behalf of any party in the taxation proceedings or in the proceedings which gave rise to the taxation proceedings, he may exercise the powers conferred on the court by rule 14(1).

(2) Where, whether or not on a reference by the court under rule 15(7), it appears to the registrar that—

(a) any costs have been incurred unreasonably or improperly in the taxation proceedings or in the proceedings which gave rise to the taxation proceedings, or

(b) any costs have been wasted by failure to conduct those proceedings with reasonable competence and expedition, or

(c) there has been a failure to procure taxation,

he may exercise the powers conferred on the court by rule 15(1)(a), and in so doing shall have all the powers and duties of the court under paragraphs (3) to (6) of that rule.

(3) Where a party entitled to costs—

(a) fails without good reason to commence or conduct proceedings for the taxation of those costs in accordance with these Rules or any direction, or

(b) delays lodging a bill of costs for taxation,

the registrar may allow the party so entitled less than the amount he would otherwise have allowed on taxation of the bill or may wholly disallow the costs.