Both sides can make an offer to settle, before or after the case starts, which will be considered by the Judge awarding costs at the conclusion of the case. The offer may relate to the whole claim or to individual issues. Offers to settle have been designed in particular to incentivise the parties, Claimant and Defendant alike, to deal with claims promptly and realistically. The manner in which offers are made can have dramatic effects on the conduct and outcome of your case.