Dept Recovery Lawyers Sydney 

Skilled Debt Recovery Lawyers in Sydney CBD

Unpaid invoices and overdue loans can strain cash flow and jeopardise your business. Many creditors hesitate to chase debts because they are unsure of the legal process or worry about damaging relationships. Knowing your options helps you recover debts efficiently and lawfully.

Revolance Legal supports businesses and individuals in recovering or defending against debt claims. We provide direct advice, draft letters of demand and, when necessary, represent clients in court. Our approach balances firmness with respect to maintain commercial relationships where possible.

Steps To Recover A Debt

1. Send reminders

Sometimes a missed payment is an oversight. Contact your customer with a friendly reminder by phone, email or letter to discuss payment and negotiate a schedule.

2. Send a letter of demand

If reminders fail, issue a letter of demand. This formal notice states the amount owed, the reason for the debt, a deadline for payment and warns that legal proceedings will start if payment is not made. A properly drafted letter can prompt payment and forms evidence in court. In many jurisdictions, a letter of demand is expected before commencing proceedings.

3. Explore dispute resolution

If the debtor raises a dispute or cannot pay immediately, consider negotiation or mediation. Organisations such as the Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman provide dispute support services and lists of accredited mediators. Mediation can preserve relationships and reach flexible payment arrangements.

4. Engage a debt collection agency

If reminders and negotiation fail, you may use a professional debt collection service. Informing the debtor that you plan to engage a collector can sometimes prompt payment. Make sure the agency complies with consumer law and the Debt Collection Guideline.

5. Commence legal action

When other methods fail, legal action may be necessary. Proceedings start by filing a claim in the appropriate court or tribunal. The correct jurisdiction depends on the amount owed and the location of the debtor. For example:

  • In Queensland, the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) hears debt matters under $25,000.
  • In Victoria, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) handles some payment disputes but not general debt recovery.
  • Larger claims may be heard in state courts or the federal court. The Supreme Court of Western Australia deals with disputes over $750,000.

Before commencing court action, seek legal advice to ensure it is the most appropriate and cost‑effective option.

Alternatives and Defences

Debtors may have valid defences, such as disputes about the quality of goods or services, a breach of contract by the creditor or insolvency. Negotiating a payment plan or compromise can be beneficial for both parties. Debtors should respond promptly to letters of demand and seek legal advice.

How Revolance Legal Can Help

Our debt recovery services include:

  • Demand letters: drafting clear, compliant letters of demand that prompt payment.
  • Negotiation and mediation: representing you in discussions to reach payment arrangements.
  • Court proceedings: filing claims in the appropriate court or tribunal and representing you at hearings.
  • Enforcement: obtaining and enforcing judgments through garnishee orders, property seizure or bankruptcy proceedings.
  • Defence: advising debtors on their rights and negotiating settlements.

We combine strategic insight with supportive guidance to achieve efficient results.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do I always need a lawyer to recover a debt?

For small debts, you may recover the money yourself by sending reminders and a letter of demand. However, legal advice can increase your chances of success and ensure compliance with laws.

What if the debtor cannot pay?

Negotiating a payment plan or accepting a reduced amount may be better than incurring court costs. If the debtor is insolvent, you may lodge a proof of debt in their bankruptcy.

Can I claim interest and costs?

If your contract provides for interest or recovery of costs, you may claim these amounts. In some jurisdictions, the court may award interest even if not specified.

Recover Debts with Confidence

Unpaid debts affect your bottom line, but you do not need to navigate recovery alone. Revolance Legal provides clear and direct advice and effective representation. Call 02 9266 0688 or email [email protected] for help with debt recovery.

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