You can send a debtor a letter of demand to allege that they own a debt and advise that if it’s not paid within a certain period of time (usually 14 days), you’ll begin legal action. If you receive a letter of demand you should pay your debt as soon as you can to avoid also being charged interest and legal costs.

To start court proceedings a solicitor will file a Statement of Claim. If someone serves you with one of these, you shouldn’t ignore it. If you do, the creditor can apply to the court for a judgment against you. You usually have 28 days to take action after someone serves a Statement of Claim on you.