VCS/BW Legal - writing defence

Coupon-mad

Looking far better.

I think I would remove #19 because that entire argument was kicked out in the Beavis case, making it easy for this Claimant to do the same and in doing so, they'll try to align their claim with the ParkingEye one.

MadHatter752

Thanks CM ... any ideas about the MCOL website and the defence? Do i have to go through the process of "complete the defence form" but leave the box empty?

also do i need to send a copy of the claim off with my defence?

Coupon-mad

No, don't use MCOL for a defence, as explained by bargepole in one of his posts in the NEWBIES thread under the heading 'Small Claim?' Email or post a signed & dated well-set out version in the right type face/line spacing to please a Judge.

MadHatter752

Thanks CM, I have the NEWBIES thread open in another window just to cross reference everything but I wasn't 100% clear. I have used Times New Roman 12pt and double spacing. in my job as a secretary i would never let paragraphs carry over to a new page.... do you think it would be wise to employ the same with my defence? thanks once again, your help is invaluable.

Also should I send it with a covering letter or just the defence in the post on it;s own? I am probably overthinking everything... sorry

Coupon-mad

You only need 1.5 line spaced, which looks better. I too prefer not to have paragraphs carry over, particularly if it merely isolates an odd line. So yep, tidy it up.

You could put in a short covering letter for the court, stating it is the initial defence and citing the claim number & defendant's name in a header on every page (and use page numbering at the bottom corner).

MadHatter752

Thanks CM. It is going in the post this morning. All printed off now and ready to go.

Do you think I should crack on with preparing my Witness Statement and evidence or just leave it until I hear anything back?

Coupon-mad

I would relax as that stage may be 2 months away...

MadHatter752

Back again


Received a letter from BW Legal today advising me that their client (VCS) intends to continue with the claim and that they have filed notice of this with the court. I have checked MCOL and nothing has been updated yet.

Should I begin preparing witness statements now? I don't have much spare time, esp next month as I am working my notice at my place of work so can't take any days off... will it pay to get ahead of the game? How likely is it that I will end up in Court?


thanks
MadHatter752

Coupon-mad

It's very likely to have a hearing and yes, you can draft your WS and put together your evidence now, while you have more time is best.

MadHatter752

ah man


My understanding is that I will get some paperwork from the Court next and I can request it is switched to a nearby court, is that correct.


really really dont want to have to go to a hearing!!