Collectica Doorstep Notice

[Advice4Andy]

I had a letter yesterday whilst I was out from Collectica advising of they were coming to remove goods.

I have a fine from Birmingham Mag for failure to notify a change in circumstances for benefits. Fine was £968.

At the time of the fine, my employers had offered to pay the fine and I repay via my wages. The company then had a slight financial hardship and could not pay upfront. I advised the Magistrates of this and asked for a payment plan. They refused this as they said, after 3 weeks, it was already in collection and with bailiffs.

I have now had a this letter advising of attendance at my property and removal of goods. I am willing to make payments but need advice on where i stand?

I will be unemployed as of Friday 20th, and I am leaving my property on 24th.

[bluebottle]

Re: Collectica Doorstep Notice

One thing you need to be aware of where Collectica is concerned and that is they are disingenuous, at best, blatantly economical with the actualities, at worst.

A few questions -

1. Were you in court when the fine was imposed?
2. Were your means examined before the fine was imposed?
3. Have you ever received a document called a Further Steps Notice from the court prior to Collectica becoming involved?
4. Have you ever received a letter from Collectica asking for payment of the fine before the threatening epitome was received?
5. Were you ever told not to attend the court to enter a plea or defend the allegations?

[Sir Vere Brayne d'Emmidge]

Re: Collectica Doorstep Notice

If you owe the money there is not a lot you can do, the fine will not go away, but saying that you could buy yourself sometime until you enter the class of "vulnerable" debtors because you are unemployed.

Go in person to your nearest magistrate Court and file for an Out Of time Statutory Declaration, that should put the warrant on hold.

Do not tell the Collectica bailiff that you are moving out on the 24th, but do have your post re-directed.

Good luck