marstons tv license fine

[messawench]

i had a tv license fine issued by my local magistrates court, the fine was £80, i was paying this with fortnightly payments buy my benefit was dropped and i was unable to continue paying. i received a further steps notice letter last week and when i rang today they said it is too late to resume fortnightly payments and to contact marstons. i did so but they currently have no record of my case, they told me to wait until i receive a letter from them, i have read on marstons website that i will be liable for at least an extra £85, (which i really cant afford) if i ring the courts again and ask to pay the outstanding balance of £50 in full will they accept and stop the bailiffs or is it too late?
thanks for any help

[ploddertom]

Re: marstons tv license fine

Your Further Steps Notice should have given a number of days or a date when the account had to be brought up to date. Did it say this and if so what were the details?

[messawench]

Re: marstons tv license fine

the letter is dated 23rd october 2012, and says i have 10 days from the date of it, but it didnt arrive until 2nd november. i rang the court number on the letter today (6th november) and have been told it is too late to pay by installments

[ploddertom]

Re: marstons tv license fine

It appears to have arrived after the 10 days are up. Was it posted via Royal Mail or by another service? if by Royal Mail is there franked date on the envelope?

[messawench]

Re: marstons tv license fine

it came with standard royal mail post, many of my letters are often late.

[messawench]

Re: marstons tv license fine

my partner and i are on benefits due to my partners depression and anxiety, we have a child together, do i fall into the vulnerable individuals category, if so can i ask the court to take back the debt from marstons?