How do I enforce a Judgement?

1. Wait 14 Days
 

• After a judgment is made, the debtor has 14 days to pay. If they don't, you can begin enforcement.
   

 2. Choose an Enforcement Method
 

• You have several options. The best one depends on what you know about the debtor's situation (e.g. employment, assets, address).
   

A. County Court Bailiff (Warrant of Control)
 

• Court bailiffs can visit the debtor’s home/business and seize goods to sell.

• Fee: £83 (added to what the debtor owes).

• Limit: Can be used for debts up to £5,000 in the County Court.

• Apply using: Form N323 or online via Money Claim Online (MCOL).
   

B. High Court Enforcement Officer (HCEO)
 

• Used for debts over £600 (and not covered by the Consumer Credit Act).

• More effective than county court bailiffs.

• First, you must “transfer up” your judgment to the High Court for enforcement.

• Fee: £71 to transfer + HCEO fees (added to the debt if successful).

• Apply using form N293A and request a “writ of control.”
   

C. Attachment of Earnings Order
 

• If the debtor is employed, money is taken directly from their wages.

• Not applicable to self-employed people or those on benefits.

• Use form N337 to apply.

• Fee: £119 (added to the debt).
   

D. Charging Order
 

• Secures the debt against property owned by the debtor (like a house).

• Can be useful if they own a property but won't pay.

• Use form N379.

• Note: You usually need to apply for an interim and final charging order.

• This doesn’t force sale immediately — you may need a further court order.
   

E. Third Party Debt Order
 

• If the debtor has money in a bank account or is owed money by someone else, you can apply to freeze and claim it.

• Use form N349.

• Fee: £119.
   

3. Consider Debtor’s Finances
 

• If you’re unsure about the debtor’s ability to pay or assets, you can apply for an Order to Obtain Information (form N316) — this forces them to attend court and disclose their income, assets, etc.
   

4. Fees and Recovery
 

• Most court fees can be added to the judgment amount, so you may recover them if enforcement is successful.
   

5. Time Limit
 

• Judgments can be enforced for up to 6 years, but enforcement becomes harder the longer you wait.