Summons - best way to respond?

sailaway_01

I've received a summons regarding an unpaid water bill of £1300. I intend to pay to the full amount owed, but the earliest I can do this is the 28th of December. The date of the summons is the 2nd of December, add five days for the service date (7th), and 14 days to respond, and that means I can't pay in time for the 21st.

I can send the form back asking for this extra week to pay, and then pay on the 28th. If I do this will there be any record of a CCJ on my credit record?

I ask because as I understand it, if I don't reply and a default judgement is made, as long as I pay in full within 31 days of the default judgement, the CCJ will be removed from my credit record.

I'm assuming that if I admit and pay on the 28th, it'll also be removed with no 6 year record. I'm I right in thinking this?

All help much appreciated.

ValHaller

Your understanding about the recording of ccj's is correct.

Can you pay anyhing towards it? This would be helpful in keeping the goal posts mobile

Buzby

Not my understanding at all! If you do not defend, you are found guilty by default - the clock then starts and you are called upon to pay the confirmed amount which will include costs of the action.

At this stage you do not have a CCJ, and the clock is still running pending the pursuer making an application to the court for a full judgement normally 21-28 days but depends on how quickly they are on the ball.

If you pay before the judgement - no CCJ. If you delay and the CCJ is registered, YOU then have the task of seeking a recall of the CCJ and this will not be free, you pay for the administration required.

In your shoes, if you approach the pursuer and explain you may be able to save on some of the costs, especially if you make a part payment to show your goodwill.