Debt Recovery Lawyers, Liverpool
For businesses of all sizes, the key to healthy cash flow is ensuring that customers and clients pay invoices on time. Late payments for goods and services can have long-lasting, harmful consequences. When a business owes you money, you should always try to resolve the matter amicably – and there is a range of steps to help collect debts without a court order. Court action should always be a final resort.
The sooner you deal with outstanding payments, the lighter the impact will be on your business. For immediate, clear and strategic legal advice for your debt recovery situation, contact our Debt Recovery Solicitors today.
When should I start the debt recovery process?
You should begin pursuing the debt if payment is not made on the agreed payment date. An agreed payment date will typically be within 60-120 days for business transactions, but some contracts may provide for more time. It is worth noting that an agreed payment date of longer than 30 days must be fair to both parties.
If you have not agreed on a payment date, payment will be late 30 days after either:
- your customer receives your invoice; or
- you deliver the goods/provide a service, if this is later.
I have not received payment on the agreed date – what should I do?
Your first step should be to write to your debtor to let them know they have missed their payment. The missed payment may be the result of genuine oversight, so you should do this politely to avoid damaging your commercial relationship. They may also have an issue or complaint regarding your goods or services – resolving these issues quickly can mean that the outstanding payment will be made sooner.
If your debtor is experiencing cash flow problems themselves, you might consider offering them the chance to pay off the sum in instalments. Our Commercial Debt Recovery Solicitors can assist you in contacting your debtor and support you in negotiating a settlement that is fair to both parties. We can advise on Alternative Dispute Resolution options that may be appropriate, such as mediation or arbitration, to help achieve a positive outcome quickly and easily.
Debt collection agencies
Debt collection agencies in the UK play a crucial role in assisting creditors with the recovery of unpaid debts. These agencies specialize in professional debt collection services, offering expertise in negotiations and legal procedures to secure the repayment of outstanding debts. Operating within the regulatory framework of the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), reputable debt collection agencies adhere to strict guidelines and ethical practices. When engaged by a creditor, a debt collection agency will initiate contact with the debtor to pursue payment, using various communication channels such as letters, phone calls, or email. They employ trained professionals skilled in effective debt recovery techniques, aiming to establish communication, negotiate payment arrangements, or provide guidance on legal actions if necessary. By leveraging their knowledge and experience, debt collection agencies offer a cost-effective and efficient solution for creditors seeking to recover debts while maintaining a professional and respectful approach throughout the claims process.
What is a Debt Collection Claim Form
In the UK, debt collection claim forms are an essential component of the debt recovery process. These forms are typically filed with the court to initiate legal proceedings against a debtor who has failed to repay a debt. Debt collection claim forms, also known as claim forms or Particulars of Claim, provide detailed information about the debt, including the amount of money owed, the basis of the claim, and any supporting evidence. They outline the creditor's case against the debtor and serve as a formal notification of legal action. Properly completing and filing the claim form is crucial to ensure the debt recovery process proceeds smoothly. It is important to accurately state the details of the debt and any relevant terms or agreements. Once the claim form is submitted, it is served to the debtor, initiating the legal process and providing them with an opportunity to respond. Debt collection claim forms are an integral part of asserting the creditor's rights and seeking a legal remedy for unpaid debts in the UK. Seeking guidance from experienced debt recovery professionals can ensure that claim forms are prepared correctly, increasing the chances of a successful outcome in the debt recovery process.
Can debt collectors be sent without a court order?
Yes, debt collectors can be sent in the UK without a court order. Debt collectors are authorized agents who are hired by creditors to recover debts on their behalf. However, it is important to understand the limitations and regulations surrounding debt collection practices in the UK.
Debt collectors are not bailiffs, and they do not have the same enforcement powers. Without a court order, debt collectors cannot enter your property, seize assets, or forcibly recover the debt. They primarily engage in communication and negotiation with the debtor to encourage payment.
Debt collection in the UK is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) under the Consumer Credit Act 1974 and the Financial Services and Markets Act 2000. The FCA sets rules and guidelines that debt collectors must adhere to when interacting with debtors. These rules are designed to protect consumers and ensure fair treatment.
What Is A Credit Hold?
If you provide goods or services on an ongoing basis, you might want to stop doing any work for them until they have paid you what they owe. This is known as a credit hold or administrative hold. This can have a big impact on your debtor's business and may encourage them to prioritise your payment.
My Debtor Has Still Not Paid – What Should I Do?
You should send your debtor a letter before action informing them that, if they fail to pay within a specified time, you will take legal action. If the debtor pays within this time, the matter will be closed. If your debtor does not respond or disputes the debt, the next step is to take court action.
Contact Our Debt Recovery Solicitors in Liverpool
Make a Free Enquiry
For advice on commercial debt collection without a court order, contact our team today for a FREE no-obligation call, and we will explain your legal rights and options. Call us now on 0151 659 1070, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or complete our online enquiry form.
