862Reasonable and proper costs

862 Reasonable and proper costs

(1)  The taxing officer is to allow only that amount of costs as may be reasonable and proper if –

(a) the costs have been increased by –

(i) unnecessary delay; or

(ii) improper, vexatious or unnecessary proceedings; or

(iii) misconduct or negligence; or

(b) the amount of the costs is excessive having regard to –

(i) the nature of the business transacted; or

(ii) the nature of the interests involved; or

(iii) the amount involved; or

(iv) the value of the estate, fund or assets to which the proceedings relate; or

(v) any other circumstances.

(2)  The taxing officer may do any or all of the following:

(a) reduce the costs claimed to any sum the taxing officer thinks proper;

(b) assess those costs at a lump sum;

(c) apportion the amount so allowed among the parties;

(d) file a report to the Court.