Howard Cohen Court claim

They have not tried to get a CCJ as yet. They have only threatened it at this stage. I'm a bit confused by what you're saying about the mistake was to defend it at that time and ask for transfer to small claims track as I had no knowledge of debt. (trying to understand how it all works).

I thought I had no choice but to respond to the court with defence or admittance. I defended myself only by saying I had no knowledge of the creditors or the debt and would contact them direct for CCA.

The case has now gone to small claims track (hearing). However, mediation has been suggested again.

I haven't sent my signature on any correspondence as I've had no dealings with this company or its solicitors until now. I've signed no letters to the solicitors. But I will check what you've suggested. Thank you.

The terminology I use to describe my situation, I apologise if I am not explaining this well. I would consider a breakdown in relationship they way I am living as becoming estranged, but that's just how it feels. As for being amiable, I never want to go through a what I went through with my previous husband so I am grateful for 'amiable', maybe its better described as civilised so far where finances to support the children are concerned. We don't get on otherwise. It was the result of my past marriage that left me with struggling financially. As I have two children I do not want them suffering any more than needed.

I appreciate your honesty and saying how you see it. It's others perspective that help you see the way. I'm not sure what I'd class as fair, I wouldn't expect someone to carry my debts.... But yes, certainly any they have contributed too. But can see the more he pays there, the more we are stuck together. I was trying to avoid claiming benefits.

I'm not opposed to work. I had, could potentially still have a job I love but can't commit to the hours with a 3 year old. And until the funding for child care comes through I can't afford to pay for childcare to get part time elsewhere. I've looked into these avenues.

I'd need some form of transport to collect my 12yr old from school. She commutes by school bus but 3 times a week at moment is at school until 6pm. The school is not in a residential area, there's no way for her to walk /get public transport.

However I agree this relationship situation cannot continue but I'm just trying to deal with one aspect at a time now. The court application being priority. The relationship only came into consideration on here when my circumstances were queried.

I have no intention on staying living this way but each matter needs step by step changes. I also have sole tenancy.

I'm considering calling national debtline just for further advice. I've taken some steps regarding bank account, to try and get this all in order for a DMP.

I'm trying to deal with this one step at a time and my main priority is keeping Howard Cohen at bay from making a bad situation worse.. StepChange advised offering them £15 a month but as its been pointed out, this may not be considered as a resonable time period.

So I may need to seek further advice here.

Hi Fatbelly

I am still going through the process of court action (Hoist applied for CCJ). Meanwhile my circumstances have changed slightly and StepChange have advised a DRO. You are very in the know on this and I'd appreciate if you could answer some questions as I read conflicting information on please.

I'm trying to determine how detrimental it is for future. StepChange advised after 12 months DRO (15 months process in total I believe). You can start building a credit rating again?

I'm concerned if its like bankcrupty, whereas it pops up on application forms, such as mortgages. (they ask have you ever been declared bankrupt)

I understand from StepChange it's no more damaging that the 6years on default payments on your credit rating (I understand there are more regulations /rules in place with a DRO)

If my current account has no overdraft, can I keep it? Will it affect anyone who has a joint account with me. Will it affect existing contacts like mobile phone?

I'm just concerned as its a form of Insolvency that it could have long term affects on anything I do. (although as I am now, is definitely affecting me regardless).

I understand most of the application and management is done by the intermediatory, that the insolvency advisor would only really get involved if something was amiss/change?.... Are you monitored througout the year? (nothing to hide I just want to know what it's all about)

Thank you.