DLA Piper and Clyde & Co have both been drawn into High Court fee disputes with current or former clients.

DLA Piper's former client Harlequin Property Management and Harlequin Hotels and Resorts launched a claim against the top 10 law firm on 6 October in the Queen's Bench Division, alleging that it was overcharged.

Harlequin wants to see all invoices issued by DLA Piper – which equate to a six-figure sum – assessed by a costs judge and is seeking a refund on invoices paid so far if the assessments agree that it has been overcharged.

In addition, Harlequin wants DLA Piper to stop any action against the company for the payment of outstanding bills until they have been assessed.

The bills refer to work carried out for the luxury property company – whose clients include golfer Gary Player and tennis star Pat Cash – between 2008 and mid-2009.

The case is due to be heard in court next week (15 December), with Harlequin turning to Jefferies Essex Solicitors while DLA is representing itself.

Meanwhile, Clyde & Co has launched a claim against a client – Atkins Special Risks – for unpaid bills to the sum of £61,787 plus interest, for work carried out between April 2007 and September 2008.

The claim, filed in the Queen's Bench Division on 14 September by Guildford office senior partner and litigator Michael Parker, alleges Atkins denied liability to Clyde & Co and has refused to pay the bill.

DLA Piper and Clyde & Co declined to comment.

DLA Piper on the Legal Week Wiki

Clyde & Co on the Legal Week Wiki