I cannot pay my judgment

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Can the claimant take any other action against me?

If the claimant is not sure which type of enforcement to use, an order to obtain information from you might help. This is a way of finding out about your income and spending to help decide what to do next. The claimant can apply for an order to obtain information at any time, even if you are not behind with your payments.

The court will tell you when to come for the hearing. You will need to bring any documents about your finances, such as:

• pay slips;
• bank statements;
• rent books or mortgage repayments;
• court orders which you still owe money on;
• hire-purchase or other hiring agreements;
• building society, post office or trustee savings books;
• bills which you owe; and
• any bills which are owed to you.

You must go to the hearing. If you don't go you can be arrested and sent to prison for up to two years.

What will happen at the hearing?

The hearing is held in private. First you will be asked to promise to tell the truth ('swear an oath' or 'affirm'). A court officer will then ask you questions about your financial situation. The claimant may also go to the hearing to ask you questions.

Because you are 'under oath' you must give truthful answers to all the questions you are asked. If you can, back up what you say with written evidence. You may be sent to prison if you do not tell the truth about your finances.