When you are in debt it can be a particularly difficult time. This is why it is important to be aware of the rules around debt collection and enforcement. Knowing this may well help you to resolve any issues in the right way.
What a debt collector can do
A debt collector has the right to call you, send letters or collectors. It is important to remember a collector is not a bailiff – they do not have the right to demand payment from you.
It is also worth knowing that they can take money from connected accounts, add interest and send default notices (usually if you have missed more than three payments).
If a creditor applies for a County Court Judgement (CCJ) you need to respond and a court can then come up with a repayment scheme that you have to stick to.
What they can’t do
Contact is not the same as intimidation or harassment – they also have no right to contact friends, family or employers about you (this also applies to social media.) That being said it is better to contact creditors as soon as possible as it may be possible to arrange a repayment scheme without involving the courts.
Unless you default on a CCJ a debt collection agency cannot bring in a bailiff to reclaim payment or assets (anyone coming to your door will be a collector.) It is also important to remember that if a creditor has agreed to a CCJ then they have to adhere to the conditions set by the court as well.
We can help
Naturally being involved in financial problems can be a stressful time. This is why it is important to remain calm – you should not ignore contact from creditors and the sooner you discuss these problems the sooner you should be able to resolve them.
If it is not possible to come to an agreement or you feel that your creditors are being unreasonable then it is worth contacting us. We have legal specialists on hand who can go over the situation.
Our belief is that we are “big enough to specialise and small enough to care”. What this means is that we have the resources available to represent you in the strongest possible way while at the same time being able to discuss the case with you and guiding you through it.
There is often the cliché that legal representatives are cold and unemotional, however this is not true. When it comes to financial problems it can be a lot to take in and process. You need people who are patient and able to communicate with you, something that requires empathy as well as experience.
If you would like to know more about what we have to offer or to discuss your personal circumstances please contact us today and we will be able to look at your situation in more detail and find the best representation to suit you.