ADVICE AND SOLUTIONS
Small Claims Assistance
Are there any additional fees to enforce a Judgment?
Yes, in the UK, enforcing a judgment in small claims court can involve additional fees, depending on the method of enforcement you choose. Here's a breakdown of the most common enforcement options and the fees involved (as of mid-2024):
Common Enforcement Methods & Fees:
1. Warrant of Control (County Court Bailiffs)
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Use if the amount owed is up to £5,000.
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Fee: £83
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This allows bailiffs to collect the debt or seize goods.
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You apply using form N323 or online via Money Claim Online (MCOL) if your original claim was online.
2. High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEO)
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Use if the judgment is over £600 (excluding court costs) and not a consumer credit agreement.
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Fee: £71 for the transfer-up process, plus potential additional costs.
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If enforcement fails, you might still owe £75 + VAT as a compliance fee to the HCEO.
3. Attachment of Earnings Order
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Fee: £34
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Deducts money from the debtor’s wages.
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Only works if you know where the debtor is employed.
4. Charging Order
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Fee: £119
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Secures the debt against the debtor’s property or land.
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Does not guarantee payment but gives you a legal interest in the asset.
5. Third Party Debt Order
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Fee: £119
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Freezes money held in the debtor’s bank account (if known).
Can You Recover the Enforcement Fees?
Yes. These fees can usually be added to the total debt owed by the debtor, meaning if enforcement is successful, you should get them back.