Debt recovery

Debt recovery

We know how vital a healthy cash flow is to the success of any business. For over 50 years, we’ve been trusted by businesses and individuals across the North East to recover debts efficiently, effectively, and with minimal stress.

Our dedicated debt recovery team combines decades of expertise with a clear, straightforward approach, working tirelessly to secure the money you’re owed. Whether you’re an individual, a sole trader, or a large organisation, we provide tailored support to help you recover outstanding debts quickly and without unnecessary complications.

Our services include:

  • Pursuing overdue invoices and payments from customers or clients.
  • Advising on pre-legal recovery strategies to minimise disputes.
  • Representing clients in court proceedings where required.
  • Enforcing court judgments to secure payment.
  • Supporting businesses with volume debt recovery using bespoke, cost-effective processes.

We work across industries, including utilities, agriculture, technology, property, and manufacturing, helping clients maintain cash flow and protect their financial stability. Our pragmatic approach ensures clear communication and swift action, enabling you to focus on what matters most; running your business.

With an established presence in the North East, we’re well-placed to support clients across the region and beyond. We’re committed to providing expert debt recovery services with the professionalism and care you deserve.

Frequently asked questions.

Recovering outstanding debts can be challenging, whether you are a business seeking payment from clients or an individual facing unpaid obligations. To help you navigate the process with confidence, we’ve compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions about debt recovery.

The first step is usually a formal Letter Before Acton (LBA/demand letter). This sets out the amount owed, the basis of the debt and a clear deadline for payment. It can often prompt payment without requiring further action.

Yes. We can make initial contact through soft reminders or formal correspondence, depending upon your preference. Many debts are resolved quickly once lawyers become involved.

Absolutely. We support:

Businesses recovering unpaid invoices.

Individuals owed money personally.

High volume debts.

Our approach adjusts to the type of debtor and sensitivity of the matter.

Yes. We offer fixed-fee options, and these are on our website at Debt Recovery Fees – Jacksons Law Firm.

However, if the debt becomes disputed this falls outside of our fixed fees and is charged on a time spent basis, based on our hourly rates.

This depends on the debtor’s cooperation, the level of dispute (if any), and the method required.

Simple cases: often resolved in 7 – 21 days after the Letter Before Action is sent.

If Court action is needed: it can take several weeks, to months and potentially over a year (depending upon whether Court Proceedings are defended).

We will assess the merits of the dispute, discuss proportionality, request or review evidence and advise you on the best legal strategy. This could include, negotiations, mediation or issuing Court Proceedings.

Yes. Under the Late Payment of Commercial Debts (Interests) Act 1998 (for business debts) you may be entitled to:

Statutory interest.

Fixed-sum compensation; and

Reasonable recovery costs.

For consumer debts, contractual terms or court rules may allow you to recover interest. We will always advise you on what can be claimed.

In many cases, yes, especially once Court Proceedings have been issued. This does however depend on:

The value of the debt.

Whether the claim is defended; and

The Court track (i.e. Small Claims, Fast Track, Intermediate Track or Multi-Track).

You may not be entitled to all your legal costs however we can explain this in detail, before taking any action.

Usually not. Most debts resolve before a hearing. If Court attendance is required, we guide and represent you throughout.

We can take enforcement action to secure payment, including:

High Court Enforcement Officers.

Charging Orders over Property.

Third Party Debt Orders; and

Insolvency Options (bankruptcy or winding up).

We select the most effective method based on the debtor’s assets and circumstances.

Yes. We offer efficient solutions for organisations with regular overdue accounts – from repeat LBAs to streamlined litigation and enforcement support.

We can charge on a price per letter or a percentage basis to ensure that your costs are kept to a minimum to protect your cashflow.

Usually just:

A copy of the invoice and/or agreement.

Any correspondence with the debtor.

Your terms and conditions (if relevant).

The debtors contact details.

Notes/timelines on any disputes raised (if necessary).

Once we have the above, we can take action quickly.

Our approach is firm, professional and balanced, designed to preserve professional relationships where possible. Many debtors prefer structured, legal communication instead of tension between the parties.

But remember, the debtors owe you money. Are the debtors preserving your business relationship?

We can undertake various checks to assess solvency. If we believe recovery is unlikely, we will tell you before you incur unnecessary costs.

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