Supreme Court Rules 2000

The taxing officer is to allow only that amount of costs as may be reasonable and proper if – the costs have been increased by – unnecessary delay; or improper, vexatious or unnecessary proceedings; or misconduct or negligence; or the amount of the costs is excessive having regard to – the nature of the business transacted; or the nature of the interests involved; or the amount involved; or the value of the estate, fund or assets to which the proceedings relate; or any other circumstances.

The taxing officer may do any or all of the following:reduce the costs claimed to any sum the taxing officer thinks proper; assess those costs at a lump sum; apportion the amount so allowed among the parties; file a report to the Court.