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Straightforward Support from Experienced Debt Recovery Lawyers
If you are owed money and are unsure how to recover it, our dedicated Debt Recovery team is here to help. We understand how frustrating it is to provide goods or services, or loan money, and not be paid. Our aim is to make the recovery process as straightforward as possible, giving you clear guidance and taking fast, practical steps to secure what you are owed.
We regularly act on more substantial debts, including cases over £5,000, where a strategic and robust approach can make a real difference to recovery. That said, every case is assessed on its own merits, and we are always happy to discuss your situation with you.
We offer a fixed fee service for all straightforward, undisputed claims, ensuring you know exactly what to expect from the outset. If your case becomes more complicated, then a discussion will be had but this will be on a case-by-case basis. Whether your case is resolved quickly in the pre legal stage or requires court action, we will guide you through every step.
The Debt Recovery team don’t leave any stones unturned, to get debts paid.
Our Personal Debt Recovery Services
Our team has extensive experience in all aspects of personal and commercial debt recovery, including:
General Debt Recovery
- Pre legal collections and negotiation
- Advising on Consumer Credit Act matters
- Asset finance and leasing disputes
- Return of Goods claims
- Managing and recovering unpaid invoices
We take a pragmatic, results focused approach to securing payment as quickly as possible.
Enforcement and Court Action
Where further action is required, we provide clear guidance on the most effective enforcement route in an attempt to obtain payment. We undertake:
- Bankruptcy and Winding up petitions
- Writs and Warrants of Control
- High Court enforcement and / or bailiff action
- Charging Orders
- Orders for Sale
- Attachment of Earnings
- Third Party Debt Orders
- Orders to Attend Court for Questioning
- Possession proceedings
Our approach is proportionate, strategic and aimed at achieving the best outcome for you.
Specialist Debt Recovery Expertise
Motor Finance Disputes
We act for consumers, lenders and finance companies in disputes involving:
- Vehicle finance agreements
- Arrears and missed payments
- Contract disputes
- Mis-sold PPI and/or hidden charges to include commission etc
This is a key area of expertise within our team.
Unsatisfactory Quality Claims
We specialise in claims relating to goods that are not-fit for purpose, particularly vehicles and can advise on your rights and remedies when goods are faulty or mis sold.
High Volume Debt Recovery
For businesses or organisations managing large numbers of debts, we offer an efficient, scalable bulk recovery service. Our processes ensure:
- Consistency
- Accuracy
- Clear communication
- Fast progression of each case
Perfect for companies needing reliable support at volume.
Cash Collection Service
Our Cash Collection Service offers an effective way to recover debts. We take a direct and pragmatic approach, recognising the importance of cash flow, especially for small businesses and individuals.
If a debtor disputes the claim or unexpected issues arise, our wider team is on hand to address these swiftly and professionally, ensuring your case continues to progress without delay.
Why Choose Battens?
- Straightforward advice, no legal jargon
- Experienced team with decades of experience
- Specialist knowledge across key sectors
- Proven success in both individual and high-volume cases
- Clear communication throughout the process
- Clear fee structure
Our Debt Recovery Department is led by Angie Loveless, who has been with Battens Solicitors since 2009. Angie advises individuals and businesses on recovering outstanding debts and has extensive experience managing debt recovery matters from initial instruction through to enforcement action.
Debt Recovery Services Across Somerset and Dorset
With offices across Somerset and Dorset, our experienced debt recovery team can support you through every stage of the process, from initial correspondence through to court proceedings and enforcement action where necessary.
While many of our clients are based in the South West, our expertise is not limited by location. We regularly advise and represent clients across England and Wales, providing practical legal support remotely where appropriate.
We are committed to obtaining payment as quickly and efficiently as possible, helping you move forward with confidence.
For more information, get in touch with the Debt Recovery team today!
Personal Asset and Debt Recovery
FAQs
Can you go to jail for unpaid debts?
Imprisonment for unpaid debts in the UK is generally abolished, but there remain limited exceptions and specific procedures under both English and Welsh law.
Do you need a written agreement to prove a debt?
No, but a written agreement is helpful in establishing the debt.
Can my student loan be written off if I am declared bankrupt?
No. You are still required to pay your student loan when you are bankrupt.
Once you are discharged from bankruptcy, you generally have no further liability for payment of your debts. However, this is not the case with student loans. Discharge does not release you from your liability to repay your student loan.
What is the current position on undisclosed vehicle commission?
In a recent Supreme Court ruling, the Court considered whether there is a duty of trust owed by motor dealers to customers when arranging finance, and whether they need to disclose if they are paying commissions to anyone as part of their finance offering to customers.
The Court found that motor dealers are “separate agents” and are therefore free to pursue their own interests which includes receiving commission which they don’t have to tell customers about. The Court said the these undisclosed commissions did not amount to secret profits or bribes.
However, the Court did uphold that in one of the cases the relationship between the customer and the lender was unfair. This was based on the customer being commercially inexperienced and the unreasonable expectation the lender places on the customer to understand all the documents. Therefore, action can only be bought if it is clear on the highly fact sensitive circumstances that the customer has been treated unfairly by the failures of proper disclosure of commission.
How do I remove a County Court Judgment (“CCJ”) from my record?
If you have a CCJ, it will be entered onto the Register of Judgments, Orders and Fines. This entry will remain on the Register and your credit file for 6 years. When borrowing money, all lending institutions will search the Register to ensure that you are a good risk to lend to.
If you pay the full amount owed within one month of the date of the Judgment it will be removed from the Register.
However, if you paid in full outside the one-month timeframe, you will be required to demonstrate to the Court that full payment had been made to enable you to apply for a Certificate of Satisfaction. The Court will mark the CCJ as “satisfied” on your credit file. The CCJ will not be removed.
How can we help you?
Enquire today to discuss your debt recovery needs.
Our specialists will assist and advise you on the most appropriate course of action. Our specialists will guide you through the process to protect your interests and achieve the desired result.