Enforcing a County Court Judgment:
Using Bailiffs or High Court Enforcement Officers

When a County Court Judgment (CCJ) remains unpaid, creditors have the legal right to enforce payment through the use of County Court Bailiffs or High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEOs), sometimes referred to as “Sheriffs”. These enforcement agents can either collect the outstanding debt or seize assets to be sold at auction to pay the debt.

How Bailiff and High Court Enforcement Works

• County Court Bailiffs operate under a Warrant of Control, while High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEOs) act under a Writ of Control.
• HCEOs are generally considered more robust and effective than County Court Bailiffs for enforcing judgments.
• Enforcement agents act strictly on the information provided by the creditor – they do not conduct their own investigations.

Before removing any goods, a bailiff or HCEO may invite the debtor to sign a “controlled goods agreement”, allowing the debtor a final opportunity to pay. If payment is not made or the warrant is not suspended, the enforcement officer will return after five days – using reasonable force if necessary – to remove goods for auction.

Which Debts Can Be Enforced?

• Debts under £600: Can only be enforced by County Court Bailiffs (unless the original judgment was issued in the High Court).
• Debts between £600 and £5,000: Can be enforced in either the County Court or High Court.
• Debts over £5,000: Must be enforced by the High Court via an HCEO.

Bailiffs and HCEOs cannot force entry into private homes, but may enter business premises or third-party locations if goods have been moved there to avoid seizure.

Is Enforcement Right for Your Case?

Enforcement by bailiff or HCEO is most effective when the debtor owns valuable portable assets that can be sold to cover the debt. If you’re unsure whether this is the right approach, DCS offers expert advice tailored to your situation.

DCS: Supporting You at Every Stage

At DCS, we can apply for a Warrant of Control (County Court) or a Writ of Control (High Court) on your behalf – even if we were not involved in securing the original CCJ. We always consult with the client before proceeding to ensure the best outcome for your business.

HCEOs can agree on instalment arrangements directly with the debtor, while County Court Bailiffs may only set up informal, short-term payment plans. Longer-term arrangements require court approval.

There are statutory fees for using bailiffs and HCEOs. These costs are added to the debt but must be paid upfront by the client. HCEO fees paid by the debtor can be substantial due to additional statutory charges – see the official fee schedule.

What Can Be Seized?

The list of goods that can be seized is the same for both bailiffs and HCEOs. If the debtor claims certain items are exempt, or if a third party claims ownership, an “interpleader” application can be made to resolve the dispute.

Goods are usually sold at public auction, often at government auctions known for achieving lower prices. Therefore, only items likely to cover both the debt and associated costs will normally be removed.

Real-World Enforcement in Action

TV programmes such as “Can’t Pay? We’ll Take It Away!” and “The Sheriffs Are Coming” offer a glimpse into the work of HCEOs and the enforcement process.

Our Approach

At DCS, our priority is always to resolve cases amicably before resorting to seizure of goods. However, if enforcement becomes necessary, we are ready to support you – whether or not we handled your original court proceedings.

Do you need help collecting money from an unpaid CCJ?

Contact us so we can discuss how we can help you.

0117 370 4236 office@debtcollectionservice.uk