[pbhjpbhj]

But in practice, in the UK f.e., actual costs aren't awarded but instead a scale of reasonable costs is set.

That way Megacorp can hire 100 barristers if they want but if you lose you pay ordinary levels of costs. It might still bankrupt an individual but Megacorp can't just financially pressure all opponents in giving up in cases when Megacorp will obviously lose no matter who represents them in court.

Also, Small Claims (which I think USA has too), has very limited awards of costs, I'd usually contended just on paper and covers small charges. Allowing you to sue Megacorp by filling out a simple form and not even enlisting a lawyer.

A system with an assumption of awarding reasonable costs seems most preferable.