Threat of recovery from court enforced baliffs

tobylee

(sorry if this is in the wrong place)

Hello,

I'm a student currently living in Leeds and my father has called me to say that I've recieved a letter and a visit from the baliffs leaving me a removal notice over an unpaid court fine. The original fine was £200, and now they want £475 right now and I have no way of paying.

I'm returning back home in a few days as I've finished for the year now and I do not have a job or any form of income. I know the debt is not very large, but I am just asking for advice on what I can do, thanks.

dancingfairy

Hmmm - it might have been better if you'd sought advice before it got to this stage - perhaps you could have made arrangements to pay - perhaps you still can.
What does the letter advise you to do - is there a contact number/address on it?
Also have a look at National Debtline's website and see if any of their factsheets are helpful to you.
I'm not too sure on what court bailiffs can and can't do so check National Debtline's website or give them a ring or call your local CAB either where you are now or your home one.
df

tobylee

Thanks, I would of got advice if I knew I had the letters, the first letter was asking for £275 and the notice is now £475. I have not been at home in the time these letters have been sent and my father rarely home as he works away. The letter says to call a guys mobile number to arrange payment

clang_uk

Ok first thing to do is not to call them - write an unsigned letter saying that you have just received their letter, and ask how a £200 fine becomes £400 - they will write back saying fees admin costs etc. If the fine of £200 is legit, you may be best to arrange a payment plan with them, of £100 a month or something. Or you could ask your dad to stump up the cash and pay him back. You need to address this urgently before they take further action.

tobylee

I called the National Debtline and they advised me to write them a letter offering a payment plan, if that is refused I should send it to the court. I would ask my dad as usually he is willing to help, but our house was broken in to last week and £3k worth of stuff was stolen so it's not a good time to ask him.