Debt Problems? Break the Ice: Talk and Sort

Posted on November 30, 2017

As we reach December, many will be hoping for a good rest at Christmas and a fresh start in 2018. But for some, it’s been a difficult trading year - and the looming Brexit, a stagnating economy and the annual costs of celebrating Christmas all place a sharp focus on the problem of unpaid debts.

How to Deal with Debts

Whether you are a debtor or a creditor, you can read our tips on what to action you can do here.

The Key Tip is to “Take Action”.

Ignoring an unpaid invoice will only make the problem worse whether you owe or are owed money. December might be a time for partying and catching up with friends and family but consider this: how much better will you feel when sitting down to your Christmas dinner if you’ve addressed your debts?

What Can You Do?

Break the ice: telephone the debtor or creditor to talk about the issue. You never know, the season’s goodwill might make them more ready to talk and find a way forward.
Explain the issues you face. Ask and try and understand their position.
If there is a temporary cash flow issue, is there be scope for a compromise? Could the sum be paid in instalments over an agreed period of time?
If there is a complaint about the goods or services, how can it be resolved? Can anything be done before Christmas?

Ask for Help

If approaches to the other party are failing, call us for guidance on how to deal with the debt. This need not involve going to court. We can act as an intermediary between you and the debtor/creditor.

We have facilitated settlement discussions like this on numerous occasions: it’s a very useful and effective way of resolving a dispute especially where lower values are involved. It could save you from going to court – or being taken to court.

It could also save you from a worrisome Christmas.

Court Claims

If you are in debt and have received a court claim, it is particularly important that you deal with the claim form as soon as possible. If you don’t, judgment could be entered against you – regardless of whether you think the sum is due or not.

You can read more about how to deal with court claim forms here.

County Court Judgments (CCJs)

We are also asked regularly on what can be done if judgment has already been given. You can read our guidance here: A checklist to help you deal with County Court Judgments (CCJs).

Contact

For more information on debt recovery issues and CCJs, contact Christopher Burke on 0161 684 6941 or make an enquiry.

Please note that the information and opinions contained in this article are not intended to be comprehensive, nor to provide legal advice. No responsibility for its accuracy or correctness is assumed by Pearson Solicitors and Financial Advisers Ltd or any of its members or employees. Professional legal advice should be obtained before taking, or refraining from taking, any action as a result of this article.

This blog was posted some time ago and its contents may now be out of date. For the latest legal position relating to these issues, get in touch with the author - or make an enquiry now.