Debt Collection & Asset Recovery Specialists

Legal costs vary depending on whether the matter is defended, the amount claimed, and which court has jurisdiction. Many debt matters result in default judgments with costs awarded against the debtor. We provide upfront cost estimates and can discuss various fee arrangements including contingency-based recoveries for qualifying matters.

For undefended matters, default judgment can often be obtained within 6-12 weeks of serving summons. Defended actions take longer—typically 6-18 months depending on court backlogs and matter complexity. Once judgment is obtained, execution can commence immediately if the debtor doesn’t pay voluntarily.

If a debtor is genuinely insolvent with no attachable assets or income, recovery may be impractical regardless of obtaining judgment. We conduct debtor investigations before recommending legal action to assess recovery prospects. In some cases, applying for the debtor’s sequestration may be an option, or the judgment can be held for future enforcement if the debtor’s circumstances improve.

Section 129 of the National Credit Act requires creditors to send a specific notice to debtors in default under credit agreements, informing them of the default and their rights to remedy it or seek debt counselling. This notice must be sent at least 10 business days before commencing legal action. Failure to comply with Section 129 can result in court proceedings being dismissed.

Yes. We handle debt collection and enforcement nationally through our network and correspondent attorneys. Matters can be issued in the appropriate Magistrates or High Court depending on debt amount and debtor location. Our national reach ensures efficient, cost-effective recovery regardless of geographic location.

Secured debts (like mortgage bonds or notarial bonds) give creditors preferential rights to specific assets securing the debt, making recovery easier and more certain. Unsecured debts have no specific security, so creditors must obtain judgment and then search for attachable assets. Secured creditors can foreclose on security whilst unsecured creditors rely on general execution.