When The Bailiff Comes Knocking What Are Your Rights?
If your debts get to the stage where a bailiff comes knocking at your door to seize goods, it can be a very distressing experience. However, if you know your rights and the law beforehand, this can alleviate some of the stress and make the situation much more manageable.
This guide to the regulations on bailiffs refers to England and Wales only.
What is a bailiff?
First of all, back to basics what is a bailiff? A bailiff is someone who collects a debt on behalf of someone to whom you owe money (a creditor).
There are different types of bailiffs county court, certified and private. County court bailiffs are employed by the local authority, certified bailiffs are employed by a private debt collection company but have provided references to the local authority to confirm their suitability to work as bailiffs.
All types of bailiff must adhere to the same general regulations, although some have more power than others to collect debts.
When is a bailiff authorised to enter your house?
A bailiff might be employed to collect debts such as magistrates court fines, county...