For judgments over £600, High Court Enforcement Officers (HCEOs) have broader powers, act faster, and can attend without advance notice. The most effective enforcement route.
Understanding why High Court Enforcement is faster and more powerful for debts over £600.
| Feature | County Court Bailiff | High Court Enforcement Officer |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum debt | Any amount | £600+ |
| Advance notice | Usually 7 days | No notice required |
| Speed | 4–8 weeks | 2–7 days |
| Entry powers | Limited | Broader (commercial) |
| Goods seizure | Standard range | Wider range |
| Vehicle clamping | Limited | Yes — immediate |
| Cost | £77 (Warrant) | £75 + VAT + £190 + VAT (recoverable) |
| Effectiveness £5k+ | Often slow | Highly effective |
Request transfer of your CCJ to the High Court for enforcement. Our pack includes a pre-filled template.
Send the completed form to the County Court that issued your judgment. Processing takes 7–14 days.
Once the High Court issues the writ, instruct a High Court Enforcement Officer directly. They take over immediately.
The HCEO attends the debtor's premises, often within days. They seize goods or secure payment on the spot.
All fees are added to the debt and recovered from the debtor if enforcement succeeds.
£75 + VAT
Paid to the HCEO to begin enforcement. Covers initial investigation and contact with the debtor. Recoverable from the debtor if enforcement succeeds.
£190 + VAT
Charged when the HCEO attends the debtor's premises and takes enforcement action. Only payable if enforcement proceeds. Also recoverable from the debtor.
Important: If the HCEO cannot recover anything (the debtor has no assets), you are only liable for the compliance fee (£75 + VAT). The enforcement fee is not charged. This makes High Court Enforcement relatively low-risk even for uncertain cases.
Transferring to the High Court and instructing an HCEO involves specific paperwork and timing. A specialist can handle the transfer, instruct the HCEO, and manage the entire enforcement process for you.
Our specialist network provides Form N293A, step-by-step transfer guidance, and all the support you need for High Court Enforcement. No solicitor required.
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