Enforcement
Judgment Enforcement & Recovery
Once a judgment remains unpaid, enforcement normally requires a further application. We explain how to obtain the appropriate order, what it can reach and whether the likely recovery justifies the fees.
Warrant of control
Applying to the County Court for a warrant allowing an enforcement agent to take control of eligible goods and, if necessary, sell them. Notice, exempt goods, entry restrictions and the debtor’s ability to apply to suspend the warrant all matter.
High Court writ of control
Where eligible, transferring a County Court judgment to the High Court for enforcement and obtaining a writ of control executed by a High Court enforcement officer. Not all judgments can be transferred; Consumer Credit Act-regulated judgments have specific restrictions.
Attachment of earnings order
Applying for deductions from an employed debtor’s wages, subject to court-set repayment and protected earnings rates. This is not the appropriate route for a self-employed or unemployed debtor; the court considers their means.
Third-party debt order
Seeking an interim order to freeze qualifying money owed to the debtor by a third party — commonly funds in a bank account — followed by a hearing for a final order. Account ownership, the balance when the order is served and hardship objections can affect recovery.
Charging orders & asset enquiries
Applying for a charge over qualifying property or securities, with a separate order-for-sale application needed to seek a sale. An order to obtain information can require a debtor to attend court and disclose their finances; insolvency action is a separate route with strict conditions.
Possession, delivery & other enforcement
Where applicable: warrants or writs of possession to recover property, warrants or writs of delivery for goods, and specialist advice on receivers by way of equitable execution. The available method depends on the judgment, assets and court permission; not every method is available in every case. Authorised solicitors handle reserved applications, and enforcement is carried out by the appropriate court officers or authorised enforcement agents.