Councils given use of courtrooms

[R0b]

You are issued with a summons, if you don't turn up then the hearing may proceed in your absence if there is no valid reason for adjourning. We are a number of posts in and I still don't know what it is you are asking for. You seem to be holding on to certain information and drip feeding it. I think you've had several answers which appear to resolve your initial query so why don't you just give us the story and what you are seeking to do.

[islandgirl]

Exactly Rob. In reality there isn't really a hearing if the person does not turn up. If a letter was sent asking to adjourn it would certainly be considered. Most people do not turn up and the orders are just signed. Unless we get more info this is my last post on the subject!

[Barker]

Is that legal?

[Barker]

What case would there be to hear? We only have the council's side to listen to!

To determine whether or not the defendant is liable for the council tax. They could have been wrongly billed. Maybe someone else is liable for it. The burden of proof would be on the council.

[islandgirl]

You clearly misunderstand the system. This is not a criminal trial. I suggest a visit to your local mags on a day when the council are in court to see how it works. Then come back and ask any questions you have.

[Barker]

You clearly misunderstand the system. This is not a criminal trial. I suggest a visit to your local mags on a day when the council are in court to see how it works. Then come back and ask any questions you have.

It's not a criminal trial. Nor can it be a civil trial because if it were, the burden of proof of liability to the council tax would be on the plaintiff, i.e. the council. So what is it?

[islandgirl]

Go and see a council tax court and find out