CEL in-house claim, Defended

justice_4all

Today received a copy of CE's directions questionnaire from them.

So as I understand, I need to wait for my own copy to fill in which will be sent from the CNBC. Any idea how long it takes to receive? Guess I should download one and get one filled in so it's ready?

Any reason why I shouldn't just fill one in and send it without waiting?

Le_Kirk

Keep checking your status page on MCOL and as soon as you see the N180 has been sent to you, you can download (if not already done) from gov.uk, complete it and send by email to the address shown in the template defence thread. I have read reports that sending too early will cause the N180 to be returned to you and not counted as received!

justice_4all

Received a single page letter in post from CNBC to complete N180. No forms in the envelope, so downloaded and ready to send to DQ.CNBC@justice.gov.uk

Read another post about them not receiving. Is there any value to post a copy too? or just email suffice?

and in the email should I ask for them to confirm receipt?

Gr1pr

Email is fine, just make sure that you get the auto email response back, which already confirms receipt

justice_4all

Hi, I have a mediation call coming up.

Do I have to summarise my defence if the mediator asks, or can I simply say - I offer zero and will defend my case in court?

Gr1pr

The latter, as explained in the 8 steps ( you definitely should not discuss the case, only money. )

justice_4all

I had the mediation call and was firm offering zero and will that I will defend my case in court (claimant offered reduced settlement which I refused). Mediator let them know but called me back again reiterating the claimant's reason for the ticket (overstay), and reduced it again further (minimal amount) - I stayed firm still offering zero and that I'm not interested.

Called me back again a few minutes later saying claimant happy to proceed to court blah blah blah, could take 3+ months to get a date and can still agree on a settlement before court.

Is this expected? I wasn't expecting 3 calls. I made it quite clear in all of them I offer zero.

Coupon-mad

Yep all normal to and fro for a Mediator.

Gr1pr

Its usually one or more calls, nothing unusual in ping pong negotiations, ignore them and move on to the next phase

justice_4all

Update:

I've now received a Notice of Allocation to Small Claims Track (Hearing). There is a hearing date at a court on the other side of London which is not convenient whatsoever! Unless claimant pays trial fee by certain date.

Is this expected at this stage? should I prepare to go to court? If I have to go to court why have they chosen one so far away!?