Unpaid debts can have a serious impact on your cash flow – whether you’re running a business or managing your personal finances. At Thomas Mansfield Solicitors, our debt recovery solicitors help you take swift, proportionate action to recover what you’re owed.
Based in London and across the South East, our debt recovery solicitors support individuals, companies and landlords in resolving both disputed and undisputed debts. Our approach is strategic and cost-effective, with a focus on achieving results which protect and advance your wider interests.
We provide end-to-end support across the full debt recovery process. Whether at the stage of pre-action, litigation, or court enforcement, our advice is always clear and commercially focused.
Call our dispute resolution team on 0203 993 4813 or
We follow a structured three-stage process that maximises your chances of recovery while keeping legal costs proportionate.
Estimated timeframe: 1-6 weeks
Where possible, we recover debts without going to court.
Estimated timeframe: 3–12 months
If payment is not made, our debt recovery solicitors issue proceedings to secure a court judgment.
Costs
See our pricing information for details on court fees and disbursements. Due to various factors at play, we are unable to provide specific fee estimates for our professional charges without an initial review of your matter.
Estimated timeframe: 2–6 months
If the debtor doesn’t pay voluntarily after a court judgment, we can assist with enforcement action.
Call our dispute resolution team on 0203 993 4813 or
How much does debt recovery cost?
Our fees depend on the value and complexity of your claim. For undisputed debts, our debt recovery solicitors may offer fixed-fee options. More complex or disputed claims are charged at hourly rates, which we explain clearly at the start. You’ll also need to budget for court fees and any disbursements such as enforcement costs or barristers’ fees (also referred to as Counsel’s fees). We always provide a tailored estimate and agree the next steps with you before proceeding.
Hourly rates (as at February 2026)
| Experience level | Hourly rate (excluding VAT) |
|---|---|
| Partner | £395 – £425 |
| Solicitor | £300 – £350 |
| Trainee Solicitor | £250 – £300 |
| Paralegal | £175 – £200 |
Court fees (set by the court)
| Claim value | Court fee |
|---|---|
| Up to £300 | £35 |
| £301 – £500 | £50 |
| £501 – £1,000 | £70 |
| £1,001 – £1,500 | £80 |
| £1,501 – £3,000 | £115 |
| £3,001 – £5,000 | £205 |
| £5,001 – £10,000 | £455 |
| £10,001 – £200,000 | 5% of the claim value |
Disbursements, such as barrister fees, tracing agents or enforcement charges, will be discussed with you in advance.
Payment of legal fees
How long does the debt recovery process take?
Timelines vary depending on whether the debt is disputed and whether court enforcement is needed. A straightforward, undisputed debt may be recovered in 1-6 weeks at the pre-action stage. If legal proceedings are required, it could take 3-9 months. Enforcement can take a further 2-6 months, depending on the method used. We’ll always give you realistic time estimates at each stage of the process.
Do I need to go to court to recover a debt?
Not always. Many debts are resolved before court proceedings are necessary. We start by sending a formal Letter Before Action, which often prompts payment. If court action is needed, we handle everything for you – from issuing the claim to securing judgment and enforcing payment. We’ll guide you through the process and advise on the most effective approach.
Can you help if the debtor disputes the debt?
Yes. Our debt recovery solicitors are experienced in handling disputed claims. We’ll assess the strength of your case, advise on resolving the dispute and represent you in negotiations or court if required. Disputed claims can be more complex, but we’ll keep costs proportionate and work with you to achieve the best outcome.
Can I recover legal costs from the debtor?
In many cases, yes – particularly if you’re successful in court. For debts over £10,000, you can usually claim a contribution towards your legal costs. For lower-value claims (small claims track), costs recovery is limited, but fixed court fees and interest may still be added to the debt. Our debt recovery solicitors will explain what costs are likely to be recoverable at the outset.
What happens if the debtor still doesn’t pay after judgment?
If the debtor fails to pay after a County Court Judgment (CCJ), we can take enforcement action. This may include instructing High Court Enforcement Officers, applying for a charging order on property, freezing bank accounts or seeking an attachment of earnings order. Our debt recovery solicitors will recommend the best method based on the debtor’s circumstances and act swiftly to recover what you’re owed.
Contacting the right person couldn’t be easier. Use our form or call us to speak to an experienced dispute resolution solicitor in confidence.
Please note we do not offer legal aid or no win no fee agreements.
