It is a fact of life that sometimes invoices do not get paid. This simply may be because of an oversight or because the debtor cannot afford to pay the amount or there may be a dispute and that is why the debt has not been discharged.
At GSC we have acted on both sides, both recovering debts for creditors and disputing debts or seeking time for debtors to pay .
This used to be a simple process but things have now changed by reason of a new Pre-action Protocol for Debt Claims that came into force on 1 October 2017 in respect of non-business to business debts. But the first point to remember is that if the debtor is a sole trader (i.e. an individual who is trading under a business name rather than in his own) he will fall within this Protocol.
In the case of the non-business to business debts a whole new procedure has been brought into play and one which shows yet again how the Court process is to be the course of last resort. The Protocol has in effect slowed down the whole process and the old-fashioned seven day letter no longer applies. Instead a formal Letter of Claim with an Information Sheet, a Reply Form and a Financial Statement Form are issued. The debtor then gets 30 days in which to respond and even that period can be extended if the debtor justifiably asks for further information or the production of documents. Even then the parties are further encouraged to try to agree a payment schedule and if they can’t, to use another form of alternative dispute resolution. Only then can proceedings be commenced. How this Protocol will impact and what the court’s attitude would be to non-compliance is yet to be made clear.
In the case of business to business debts the old procedures still apply and Court proceedings can be issued. At GSC we can advise on the whole gambit of options whether it be issuing High Court or County Court proceedings or if there is absolutely no defence by serving a Statutory Demand under the Insolvency legislation albeit the Courts have said on many occasions that they will not permit Insolvency Proceedings to be used as a means of debt collecting. There are however occasions where there is absolutely no defence to the claim and the service of the Statutory Demand can lead to either prompt payment or dialogue and an agreed payment schedule.
However, it must be borne in mind that if a Statutory Demand is served on an individual, an application can be made to set it aside. If the Court does then set it aside, the creditor can be at real risk of having to pay a lot of legal costs. In the case of a company debtor there is no such equivalent procedure. However a company debtor will have to seek injunctive relief to restrain the advertising of the Statutory Demand or the presentation of the petition. Again, there can be major cost ramifications.
If the Court proceedings are used, the debtor can make offers which the Court requires the claimant creditor to consider. Once judgement is obtained then there are several methods to enforce judgement including again insolvency proceedings but also instructing the Sheriff or Bailiff, attaching a third party debt such as a bank account or applying for a charging order against the debtor’s property.
In summary therefore GSC can advise on:
• The Pre-action Protocol for debt recovery for non-business debt
• Pursuing Court proceedings
• Issuing Statutory Demands
• Defending claims for an unpaid debt
• Defending Statutory Demands
• Using mediation or other form of ADR to resolve a debt dispute
• Dealing with the enforcement of a Court Judgment
For information on our charges fees please visit: Debt Recovery Fees
‘A small firm which punches well above its weight’ GSC Solicitors LLP undertook leasing transactions for several blue-chip corporate tenants, particularly in the media sector. It acted for a number of hotel owners regarding the acquisition and development of new hotels.
“We have found the service excellent, and it is for this reason we have continued to use GSC. The key strengths for us have been a commercial approach to deals that is often missing from solicitors, and a personal service based on a knowledge of us and our needs and long-term plans.”
“The main positive comparison we have noted from GSC is the personal touch and commercial acumen.”
“We have often used different legal firms for IP and other work in the past, but GSC’s commercial approach and professionalism, coupled with the excellent working relationship we have built up over a number of years makes it our preferred choice.”
“As a Financial Advisor I have been personally using and recommending GSC for over thirty years. I have referred clients of mine to them and only ever been thanked for the recommendation, which should convey the confidence I have in the individuals, and the firm.”
“Great result today. Just wanted to say thank you for your continued hard work in fighting our corner on this case. You have both been amazing. Michael incredible support and good ideas.”
Legal 500: 'GSC punches above its weight.’
Legal 500: ‘I have worked with GSC for many years and have been hugely impressed with their knowledge of the sector and the law.’
Legal 500: 'GSC are engaging and take time to not only understand the nature of your enquiry but the nature of your business itself. They are quick to grasp complexities and tailor advice and solutions that are very specific.’
Legal 500: 'Great understanding of tax matters and tactics, very professional. Very professional and methodical, confident way of handling case work’.
Legal 500: 'I had a fantastic experience working with the solicitors at GSC Solicitor LLP. Their team consists of highly skilled professionals who are committed to providing exceptional legal support. The staff was attentive, responsive, and demonstrated a deep understanding of my needs’.
Legal 500: 'Working with GSC has been a standout experience, thanks to their exceptional individuals. Their team possesses unique qualities that set them apart from competitors’.
Legal 500: 'What distinguishes GSC’s individuals is their commitment to client satisfaction. They understand my needs, communicate transparently, and work seamlessly as a team. Their professionalism, integrity, and personalised approach inspire trust and confidence’.
Legal 500: '100% commitment to the cause. Clients get an exceptionally-dedicated team.’
Legal 500: 'Service is phenomenal, advice is quick, and calls are always returned.’
Legal 500: ‘The practice is very hands-on and engaged with its clients.’
Legal 500: ‘Outstanding skills and a great ability to understand international legal issues.’
Legal 500: ‘Excellent service and especially professional.’
Legal 500: ‘The team have excellent knowledge in real estate and can advise on complex transactions.’
For every part of your life and business, talk to GSC
GSC Solicitors LLP
31-32 Ely Place, London EC1N 6TD
DX: 462 London/Chancery LN (View on map)