A County Court Judgment (CCJ) is a court order made in England and Wales when a creditor successfully takes legal action to recover a debt. CCJs are often searched for after missed payments or court paperwork has been received.
This page explains what a CCJ is, how it is issued, what happens after a judgment is made, and how long it usually remains on record. It is provided for general information only and does not offer advice or recommendations.
What Is a County Court Judgment (CCJ)?
A CCJ is a legal decision made by a county court stating that a debt is owed and setting out how it must be repaid. It follows a court claim where the creditor has asked the court to recover money owed.
A CCJ does not automatically involve enforcement action, but it can lead to further steps if the terms of the judgment are not followed.
How a CCJ Is Issued
Before a CCJ is issued, a creditor usually sends letters requesting payment and may issue a formal court claim.
If the claim is not responded to, or if the court rules in favour of the creditor, a CCJ may be issued. The judgment will state how much is owed and how payment should be made.
What Happens After a CCJ Is Made
Once a CCJ is issued, the individual is expected to pay the debt as ordered by the court. This may involve paying in full or making payments over time, depending on the judgment.
If the terms of the CCJ are followed, no further action may be taken. If payments are missed, enforcement action may be considered.
Enforcement Action After a CCJ
If a CCJ is not complied with, creditors may apply for enforcement. This can include:
- Bailiffs or enforcement agents
- Attachment of earnings
- Charging orders in certain situations
Not all CCJs result in enforcement action, and outcomes depend on circumstances.
How Long a CCJ Stays on Your Credit File
A CCJ is usually recorded on credit files for six years from the date it is issued.
If the debt is paid in full within a set period after the judgment, it may be marked as satisfied or removed from public records, depending on timing and procedure.
Impact of a CCJ on Credit and Finance
Having a CCJ can affect access to credit, mortgages, rental agreements, and some financial products. The impact often reduces over time, particularly if the judgment is dealt with.
Different lenders assess CCJs differently, and outcomes vary.
Public Records and Registers
CCJs are recorded on public registers, which can be accessed by lenders and other organisations. These records typically mirror what appears on credit files.
Important Information
This website provides general information only and does not offer legal, financial, or debt advice. Court judgments and enforcement processes depend on individual circumstances. Always seek advice from a qualified, authorised professional before making decisions about your financial situation.