Court Claim - DCBL £170 (over 5 years ago!!!)

Coupon-mad

Yes.       

bromfish

Is there a set timescale I should leave this to optimise time? Or simply crack on with the reply. Apologies, this is a bit overwhelming with all of the new things I’m going to need to learn going forward.

bromfish

Am I right in sending the email to the generic “info@dcblegal”etc email address? Or do I need to access the website they have sent to respond?

The thread mentions about searching for the solicitors email specifically but I can’t seem to find it, guidance appreciated.

Le_Kirk

The address I have on my list of PPC email addresses is info@dcblegal.co.uk

bromfish

Thanks Le Kirk. When I am I putting my “brief” defence above the 2 questions as stated, I am assuming I should remain ambiguous with this?

For example, referencing shoddy signage along with the vagueness of their allegation with my vehicle breaking the contract? 

I’m not fully sure what they are actually saying my vehicle has done as it is that unclear on the LoC.

Umkomaas

bromfish said:

Is there a set timescale I should leave this to optimise time? Or simply crack on with the reply. Apologies, this is a bit overwhelming with all of the new things I’m going to need to learn going forward.

I've scanned prior posts, but haven't spot it - what is the date of the parking event that spawned the PCN?

bromfish

Original date of the contravention was 22/04/20 (during covid) and the reason stated is “unauthorised parking at”. During COVID, this particular car park remained open (unlike other in the area that clearly barricaded entrances). My vehicle was there with the intention of being a customer, but the shop was closed due to lockdown. 

The LoC is dated 20/03/25 - they have stated which I have 30 days to respond along with the other jargon. Is it better to leave it as late as possible to respond to the LoC or just get it done?

Coupon-mad

Up to you and depend on your holiday, work & family plans. If you want the claim in April (rather than early Summer), DON'T even include the 30 day hold / debt advice paragraph.

Re the added info, why not just state this PCN was from the first COVID lockdown and you accept no liability for jumped up scam litigation five years later.

Honestly, be robust.

bromfish

Thanks Coupon Mad. Sooner the better really, not really like we have plans but I will be stuck work wise along with family things in the summer. If I post my email tonight on here any chance it could be proofed?

thanks in advance for anything additional. 

bromfish

Dear Sirs,

Reference: xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Proposed Legal Proceedings
Claimant: G24 Limited

I refer to your your letter of claim.

I confirm that my address for service for the time being - assuming you don't faff about and delay any claim - is as follows, and any older address must be erased from your records:
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

The alleged debt is disputed and any court proceedings will be vigorously defended.

Firstly, this PCN is from the first Covid lockdown and I accept no liability for jumped up scam litigation 5 years on. 

Secondly, during this period, the government announced support for essential workers with regards to parking, as did your client, G24 Limited. As the keeper of the vehicle and an essential worker myself, I find your scaremongering a disgrace and contradictory.

Finally, the signage of your client is shoddy at best. Effectively verbiage with several signs stating different things. Alongside the reasons “unauthorised parking”, I find this vague and baseless, along with the majority of claims your company seems to deal with. 

I will not be intimidated by your scattergun approach of firing off claims wherever you see fit. Furthermore, I will defend myself robustly should you decide to further waste our time on what we both know will lead to a discontinuation should it get that far. You may even save your client a court fee along the way. 

I also note that the amount being claimed has increased by a hugely exaggerated amount which the Government called "extorting money from motorists".

Don't send me your usual blather about that.
I have two questions, and under the Pre-Action Protocol I am entitled to specific answers:

1. Am I to understand that the additional £70 represents what you lot dress up as a 'Debt Recovery' fee, and if so, is this nett or inclusive of VAT? If the latter, would you kindly explain why I am being asked to pay the operator’s VAT?

2. With regard to the principal alleged PCN sum: Is this damages, or will it be pleaded as consideration for parking?

Yours faithfully

Thoughts on this?