SIEMENS AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT AND ANOTHER v. H.K. SIEMENTS ELECTRIC APPLIANCE LTD AND OTHERS

                 HCA399/2009

IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE

HONG KONG SPECIAL ADMINISTRATIVE REGION

COURT OF FIRST INSTANCE

ACTION NO. 399 OF 2009

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SUMMARY ASSESSMENT OF COSTS

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1. On 25 June 2009 I gave judgment to the plaintiffs against the 1^st defendant in default of defence.  I also made an order that the costs of this action be paid by the 1^st defendant to the plaintiffs such costs to be summarily assessed.  This is the summary assessment of the costs order that I made.

2. The principles to be applied are clear.  A summary assessment of costs is not a mini-taxation of costs.  The court applies a broad-brush approach on the summary assessment. 

3. Having perused the plaintiffs’ statement of costs and the submissions, I am satisfied that there are certain items in the plaintiffs’ statement of costs which are, in my view, excessive.  As regards items C1, D1 to D3 where time was spent, I am of the view that some of the time spent was excessive. 

4. Applying a broad-brush approach, in my view, the proper sum to be assessed including the costs for today’s hearing is the sum of $47,000.  That is my assessment of costs that the 1^st defendant has to pay to the plaintiffs.  Such costs are to be paid within 14 days from today.