Mobile phone comapny getting heavy

ihatethree

Hi, first post so apologies if its in the wrong place.
I'm currently in dispute with a mobile phone company over charges they have added to my account that I believe were added in error. Several letters have gone back and forward, although it would seem the company are unwilling to try and help and have basically washed their hands of the dispute and have gone straight to debt collectors. I have managed to keep these off my back for a while, and I have raised a complaint with OTELO, however the debt collection agancy are now getting heavy by sending me a 'final warning' before they take me to court.
The outstanding balance is only about £50, but its the principal that I don't think I owe it. Also if it went to court I would be liable for other charges.
My question is if it did go to court and I lost (although I don't think I will), will I get a CCJ registered against me immediately or am I given a length of time to settle the debt? And are they likely to carry out their threats for such a small amount of money?
Thanks in advance for any advice.

nrsql

I believe that if you are disputing the bill they are not allowed to sell it to debt collectors - they may be able to use debt collectors to handle it though.

I'm sure someone will come along with a definitive answer to this but I would have thought that if you present evidence that you are disputing the bill and they have done nothing to resolve it that the court wouldn't be very happy with them. Do they have an explanation for the charges?
I hope you are doing everything in writing?
I would be surprised if they took this to court - probably just trying to frighten you.

compulsivespender79

nrsql may be right - if a an account is in dispute then creditors cannot sell the debt whilst it is in dispute (or pursue thedebt at all), however, as far as the Consumer Credit Act is concerned mobile phone contracts and overdrafts don't apply.
I think you're best bet is to call National Debtline or CAB, or even email OFT.

ihatethree

OK cheers for the advice. I've also just noticed that the debt collectors are chasing me for more than the phone company say I owe them, and these are not 'additional charges'. Something a bit fishy is going on.:mad: Will be back on the blower to OTELO first thing monday, and may involve Trading Standards now as well.