Debt collection process step by step
Debt collection is a structured process of recovering outstanding receivables, from the first contact with the debtor and amicable negotiations to court action and enforcement where needed. We handle every case in 7 clearly defined stages, so that each step supports recovery while keeping the focus on solutions that can lead to payment as early as possible.
In most cases, we secure payment already at the amicable stage, without taking the matter to court. Below you can see what each stage of our process looks like.
Initial consultation and case review
During the initial call, we gather the key facts about the case, including:
- debtor details and the amount due, including the currency
- payment deadlines and when the arrears arose
- the basis of the claim, for example a contract, purchase order, invoices or proof of delivered goods or services
- any objections, complaints or disputes raised by the debtor
- your expectations regarding timing, costs and the preferred way of handling the matter
- the list of documents needed for further review
Document review
Once we receive the documents, we verify their completeness and consistency. We assess whether they confirm the existence of the debt, its amount and the due date. We review, among other things:
- the contract or purchase order
- invoices
- delivery or acceptance confirmations
- correspondence
- earlier payment demands
If any key documents or details are missing, we specify exactly what should be added before the legal assessment and the next stage of the process.
Legal assessment
After the document review, our legal team evaluates the basis of the claim and selects the most effective course of action.
- we assess enforceability, due dates, limitation risks, potential debtor objections and the competent country and court
- we determine which safeguards may be worth using and which evidence will be decisive at the next stage
On this basis, we prepare a recommendation covering amicable recovery, court proceedings or preparation for enforcement.
Consultation with a foreign partner
In cross-border matters, we work with our partners in the debtor's country so that the actions taken are aligned with local law and market practice.
- we agree the local contact model and communication standard so the case is handled in a way that fits the market and supports effectiveness
- we confirm formal requirements and assemble the documents needed to proceed with the case in the relevant country
Proposal and action plan
Once the case has been reviewed, we present our proposal for handling the recovery. You receive a clear scope of work for each stage, our recommended strategy and full information about the fee model and expected costs.
Amicable debt collection
We start with amicable recovery because it is the fastest and most effective way to recover the debt without additional court-related costs.
- we communicate directly with the debtor
- we issue formal payment demands
- we negotiate either a one-off payment or an instalment arrangement
- we keep you updated on the outcome of every step
If the debtor does not pay or fails to honour the agreed terms, we move the case to the next stage.
This stage is not always necessary. Most cases are resolved amicably, without court proceedings.
Court action or enforcement
If amicable action does not result in payment, we move to the formal path best suited to the case.
- our legal team prepares the claim or the appropriate application, conducts the proceedings and obtains the decision that opens the way to recovery
- if an enforceable title already exists, we initiate enforcement and continue until the funds are recovered or the realistic options are exhausted
- we keep you informed about the status of the case and the key decisions so you retain full control over the next stages
Initial consultation and case review
During the initial call, we gather the key facts about the case, including:
- debtor details and the amount due, including the currency
- payment deadlines and when the arrears arose
- the basis of the claim, for example a contract, purchase order, invoices or proof of delivered goods or services
- any objections, complaints or disputes raised by the debtor
- your expectations regarding timing, costs and the preferred way of handling the matter
- the list of documents needed for further review
Document review
Once we receive the documents, we verify their completeness and consistency. We assess whether they confirm the existence of the debt, its amount and the due date. We review, among other things:
- the contract or purchase order
- invoices
- delivery or acceptance confirmations
- correspondence
- earlier payment demands
If any key documents or details are missing, we specify exactly what should be added before the legal assessment and the next stage of the process.
Legal assessment
After the document review, our legal team evaluates the basis of the claim and selects the most effective course of action.
- we assess enforceability, due dates, limitation risks, potential debtor objections and the competent country and court
- we determine which safeguards may be worth using and which evidence will be decisive at the next stage
On this basis, we prepare a recommendation covering amicable recovery, court proceedings or preparation for enforcement.
Consultation with a foreign partner
In cross-border matters, we work with our partners in the debtor's country so that the actions taken are aligned with local law and market practice.
- we agree the local contact model and communication standard so the case is handled in a way that fits the market and supports effectiveness
- we confirm formal requirements and assemble the documents needed to proceed with the case in the relevant country
Proposal and action plan
Once the case has been reviewed, we present our proposal for handling the recovery. You receive a clear scope of work for each stage, our recommended strategy and full information about the fee model and expected costs.
Amicable debt collection
We start with amicable recovery because it is the fastest and most effective way to recover the debt without additional court-related costs.
- we communicate directly with the debtor
- we issue formal payment demands
- we negotiate either a one-off payment or an instalment arrangement
- we keep you updated on the outcome of every step
If the debtor does not pay or fails to honour the agreed terms, we move the case to the next stage.
This stage is not always necessary. Most cases are resolved amicably, without court proceedings.
Court action or enforcement
If amicable action does not result in payment, we move to the formal path best suited to the case.
- our legal team prepares the claim or the appropriate application, conducts the proceedings and obtains the decision that opens the way to recovery
- if an enforceable title already exists, we initiate enforcement and continue until the funds are recovered or the realistic options are exhausted
- we keep you informed about the status of the case and the key decisions so you retain full control over the next stages
