What is Form N245?
What is Form N245?
Form N245 is a court document used in the UK to help individuals or businesses ask the court to change how a case proceeds, particularly in relation to debt enforcement. Its main purpose is to let someone apply for a suspension of a warrant of control (which allows bailiffs to collect money or goods) or to request a change in how payments are made under a court order. If you have received a judgment against you and are struggling to keep up with payments, or if you believe the enforcement action should be paused, Form N245 is the tool you use to formally make your request to the court.
You can find the official guidance and the form itself on the Form N245 page. This resource explains how to ask the court to change the amount you must pay or to suspend a warrant issued by the court.
How Form N245 Helps Manage Court Cases
Form N245 is designed to help both parties in a case manage proceedings fairly and efficiently. By allowing you to request a case management hearing or a decision about how your case moves forward, it ensures that the process remains balanced and that everyone has the opportunity to explain their situation to the court.
For example, you might use Form N245 to:
- Ask the court to suspend a warrant of control if you need more time to pay what you owe or if your circumstances have changed.
- Request a variation of payment terms, such as reducing the monthly amount you are ordered to pay, based on your current financial situation.
- Address disputes about the enforcement process, such as disagreements over deadlines, or to clarify evidence requirements.
These requests help avoid unnecessary enforcement action and give you a chance to propose a more manageable way to settle your debt.
Examples of Issues Addressed Using Form N245
Some common situations where Form N245 is used include:
- Changing payment deadlines: If you cannot meet the original payment schedule set by the court, you can ask for more time or for payments to be reduced to an affordable level.
- Suspending enforcement action: If bailiffs are due to collect goods or money, you can request the court to pause this action while your application is considered.
- Resolving evidence disputes: If there is disagreement about what evidence should be provided or considered in the case, Form N245 can be used to ask the court for guidance.
For more information about the role of UK courts in these situations, including how applications to suspend warrants are handled, you can refer to the HMRC internal manual.
Why Efficient and Fair Case Management Matters
Using Form N245 is an important part of ensuring that court cases are managed fairly. It provides a formal way for parties to raise concerns or request changes, which helps the court make informed decisions that reflect everyone’s circumstances. This approach not only protects the rights of those involved but also helps to avoid unnecessary delays or costs.
If you want to understand how Form N245 fits into the wider process, you may find it helpful to read more about court forms and how they are used in the UK legal system.
It’s also useful to know that there are other forms, such as Form N244 – Application Notice, which serve similar purposes but may be used in different situations. Understanding the differences between these forms can help you choose the right one for your needs.
If you need to apply for a suspension of a warrant or want to ask the court to change how you make payments, Form N245 is the correct form to use. Always provide accurate and complete information, and consider seeking legal advice if you are unsure about how to proceed.
When and Why to Use Form N245
When and Why to Use Form N245
Form N245 is designed for situations where you need the court to reconsider how an existing court order is being enforced, or to change the way your case is managed. Most commonly, you would use Form N245 if you want to:
- Suspend a warrant of control (for example, if bailiffs are due to collect a debt and you believe this action should be paused).
- Vary the terms of a court order, such as changing the amount or frequency of payments you have been ordered to make.
Typical Situations for Using Form N245
You might consider applying with Form N245 if:
- Your financial situation has changed: If you can no longer afford the payments set by the court, you can ask to reduce them to an amount you can realistically pay.
- You need more time to meet court deadlines: Sometimes, circumstances beyond your control make it impossible to comply with existing deadlines. Form N245 allows you to request an extension or change to those deadlines.
- There are disputes about evidence or case management: If you believe the way your case is being handled is unfair, or if there are disagreements about what evidence should be considered, Form N245 can be used to ask the court to review these issues.
It’s important to note that Form N245 is mainly used in cases involving debt recovery and enforcement of money judgments. For other types of applications – such as requesting a different kind of order, or asking the court to make a decision about a specific issue – you may need Form N244, which serves a broader range of purposes.
Why Use Form N245?
Applying with Form N245 helps ensure that the legal process remains fair and manageable for everyone involved. By formally requesting changes to the way your case is progressing, you give the court the opportunity to consider your circumstances and make adjustments that reflect your current situation. This can prevent unnecessary hardship, reduce the risk of enforcement action like bailiff visits, and help both sides work towards a resolution.
If your main concern is resolving a dispute without going through further court processes, you might also want to consider mediation as an alternative. Mediation can help both parties reach an agreement outside of court, which can be quicker and less stressful.
For full details on when and how to use Form N245, including eligibility and application steps, refer to the official government guidance: Apply to suspend a warrant or vary payments made by a court order: Form N245 – GOV.UK. This resource provides practical advice and the latest version of the form.
How to Complete Form N245
Completing Form N245 correctly is essential to ensure your application is considered by the court without unnecessary delays. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to help you fill in the form accurately, along with advice on supporting documents and the submission process.
1. Gather Your Case Information
Start by collecting all relevant details about your case. You’ll need:
- The case number (found on previous court correspondence)
- The names of the claimant and defendant
- The name of the court handling your case
If your case began with a Form N1 – Claim Form, have this document to hand, as it contains much of the information you’ll need.
2. Complete Personal and Financial Details
Form N245 asks for your personal information, including your address and contact details. You’ll also need to provide a full breakdown of your financial situation. This includes:
- Your income (wages, benefits, pensions)
- Regular expenses (rent, bills, food, travel)
- Any other debts or financial commitments
Be honest and thorough – this information helps the court assess your ability to pay.
3. State Your Reasons for Applying
In the section asking why you are applying, clearly explain your circumstances. Common reasons include:
- Needing to reduce the amount you pay each month due to a change in financial situation
- Requesting to suspend a warrant for enforcement (for example, if you’re unable to pay due to illness or loss of income)
Be specific. For example:
“I have recently lost my job and can no longer afford the current monthly payments. I am asking the court to reduce my payments to £50 per month.”
4. Specify the Outcome You Are Seeking
Clearly state what you want the court to do. This could be:
- Suspending a warrant for arrest or repossession
- Reducing the amount you are required to pay under a court order
If you are unsure what to request, check the guidance notes included with Form N245.
5. Attach Supporting Documents
Providing evidence can strengthen your application. Consider including:
- Recent payslips or benefit statements
- Bank statements showing your income and expenses
- Letters explaining any changes in your circumstances (such as redundancy or illness)
- Copies of correspondence with the other party, if relevant
Attach copies, not originals, and list each document you are submitting in the form’s relevant section.
6. Check If You Need to Pay a Fee
There is usually a court fee to process Form N245. If you are on a low income or receive certain benefits, you may be eligible for help with court fees. Check your eligibility before submitting your application.
7. Submitting the Form
Once you’ve completed Form N245 and attached all necessary documents:
- Sign and date the form.
- Send it to the court that issued the original order or warrant. The court’s address will be on previous correspondence or on the Form N245 guidance page.
- You may need to send a copy to the other party involved in the case (for example, the claimant or their solicitor). Check the court’s instructions or ask at the court office if you are unsure.
8. What Happens Next?
After you submit your application, the court will review your form and may ask for more information or schedule a hearing. Keep copies of everything you send and any responses you receive. Respond promptly to any further requests from the court.
For full details and to download the official form, visit Apply to suspend a warrant or vary payments made by a court order: Form N245 – GOV.UK.
Taking care to complete Form N245 accurately and providing clear supporting evidence gives your application the best chance of success. If you need more guidance, consult the instructions provided with the form or seek legal advice.
What Happens After You Submit Form N245
When you submit Form N245, the court takes several steps to review your application and decide what will happen next. Understanding this process can help you prepare for the possible outcomes and know what to expect.
How the Court Reviews Your Application
Once your Form N245 is received, a court officer or judge will carefully examine the details you have provided. This includes your financial circumstances and the reasons you are requesting a suspension of a warrant or a variation of a court order. The court will assess whether your proposal for payment (or your request to suspend enforcement action) is reasonable and fair to both parties involved.
Possible Outcomes
There are several ways the court may respond to your application:
- Granting a Suspension: If the court agrees that enforcement (such as a warrant for control of goods) should be paused, it may grant a suspension. This means enforcement action will stop while you keep to the new payment terms.
- Varying the Order: The court might decide to change the amount or frequency of payments you are required to make. This variation is based on your current financial situation as outlined in your application.
- Refusing the Request: If the court finds your proposal is not reasonable, or you have not provided enough information, your application may be refused. In this case, the original order and any enforcement action can continue.
If your application relates to a case in the Crown Court, the same principles apply, and you can use Form N245 to request changes to payment terms or to suspend a warrant.
Case Management Hearings
Sometimes, the court may need more information before making a decision. In these instances, the judge can schedule a case management hearing. This is a meeting where both parties may be asked to attend, either in person or remotely, to discuss the case and clarify any issues. The court will notify you of the time, date, and whether attendance is required.
What to Expect Next
After you submit Form N245:
- Notification: The court will send both parties a decision letter explaining the outcome. If a hearing is scheduled, you will receive details about when and where it will take place.
- Preparation: If a hearing is required, gather any relevant documents, such as evidence of your income, expenses, or changes in circumstances. Be ready to explain your situation clearly to the judge.
- Complying with the Order: If the court grants a suspension or variation, make sure you stick to the new payment plan. Failing to do so could lead to enforcement action starting again.
If the court refuses your application or the dispute is not resolved through case management, you might need to consider further steps. For example, if the other party does not respond or comply, you may be able to apply for a default judgment using Forms N225 and N227 – Judgment by Default.
For more detailed guidance on using Form N245 and understanding your options, you can refer to the official government information on Apply to suspend a warrant or vary payments made by a court order: Form N245 – GOV.UK.
By knowing what happens after you submit Form N245, you can plan your next steps and ensure you are prepared for any hearings or further court instructions.
Related Court Forms and When to Use Them
When dealing with court proceedings, it’s common to come across several different forms, each serving a specific purpose in the case management process. Understanding which form to use – and when – can help you respond appropriately and keep your case on track. Below, we explain some of the most commonly used court forms related to managing claims, defending cases, and making applications, and how they relate to Form N245.
Form N244 vs. Form N245: What’s the Difference?
While Form N245 is used to ask the court to suspend or vary the terms of a County Court Judgment (CCJ) – for example, to change the payment schedule or request a case management hearing – Form N244 – Application Notice is a broader application form. Form N244 can be used to ask the court for a variety of orders, such as setting aside a judgment, requesting an adjournment, or making other case management applications. If you’re unsure which form is appropriate for your situation, you can find a detailed comparison in Form N244.
Asking for More Time: Form N9
If you’ve received a claim and need extra time to prepare your defence, you should use Form N9 – Ask for More Time to File a Defence. This form allows you to formally request an extension of the deadline, giving you up to 28 days from the date the claim was served. This can be crucial if you need to seek legal advice or gather evidence before responding.
Responding to a Claim: Admission and Defence Forms
When responding to a claim, the forms you use depend on how you wish to proceed:
- Admitting the Claim: If you agree you owe the money or part of it, you should use Forms N9A and N9C – Admission Forms. These allow you to admit liability and, if needed, propose a repayment plan.
- Defending the Claim: If you dispute the claim, or wish to make a counterclaim, you’ll need Forms N9B and N9D – Defence and Counterclaim. These forms let you set out your reasons for contesting the claim and outline any claims you have against the claimant.
Starting a Claim or Possession Proceedings
If you are the party starting legal action, you will use different forms:
- Starting a Civil Claim: Form N1 – Claim Form is the standard form for beginning most civil proceedings, such as money claims. You can also consult the full Form N1 listing for more details.
- Claiming Possession of Property: If you need to recover possession of a property (for example, as a landlord), use Form N5 – Claim for Possession of Property.
How These Forms Work Together
Each form plays a specific role at different stages of court proceedings. For example:
- The process usually starts with Form N1 – Claim Form.
- The defendant may then use Form N9 – Ask for More Time to File a Defence, Forms N9A/N9C – Admission Forms, or Forms N9B/N9D – Defence and Counterclaim, depending on their response.
- If a judgment is made and you wish to change how it is enforced, Form N245 is used to apply for a variation or suspension.
- For other applications during the case, such as setting aside a judgment or making a special request, Form N244 – Application Notice is the appropriate form.
For a complete overview of all civil court forms and to ensure you’re using the correct one for your circumstances, visit the official List of civil court forms arranged by subject matter – GOV.UK.
By understanding how these forms fit together, you can navigate the court process more confidently, ensuring your case is managed fairly and efficiently. If you’re uncertain about which form to use, consider seeking legal advice or reviewing the detailed guidance linked above.
Additional Support and Resources
If you need extra support when dealing with Form N245 or navigating the court process, there are several resources and options available to help you understand your rights and manage related issues effectively.
Help with Court Fees and Costs
Filing court forms often involves paying fees, which can sometimes be a barrier. If you are concerned about the cost, you may be eligible for help with court fees, which can reduce or even eliminate the charges depending on your financial circumstances. For further guidance on court fees, including how to apply for a reduction or exemption, you can also visit court fees for more information on the process and your options.
Mediation and Alternative Dispute Resolution
Before proceeding to a full court hearing, it’s worth considering alternative ways to resolve disputes. Mediation is a process where an independent third party helps both sides reach an agreement, which can save time, reduce stress, and avoid additional costs. Mediation is often encouraged by the courts and can be particularly useful in debt and civil cases. For more details on how mediation applies to court forms like N245, see this mediation overview.
If your dispute involves the breakdown of a relationship, divorce mediation can help you and your former partner resolve issues such as finances or child arrangements without the need for a lengthy court battle.
Managing Property and Finance Issues
Court decisions can have significant consequences for your property and finances. For example, a court order could lead to a forced house sale, where your home is sold to settle a debt. Understanding your rights and the steps involved can help you avoid or manage these outcomes. You can also read about forced house sales and how Form N245 may be used to suspend a warrant or vary payment terms.
If you are facing issues related to vehicle finance or believe you may be owed compensation, our guide on car finance compensation explains your legal options and the court process for making a claim.
Understanding Court Procedures and Protecting Your Rights
Navigating the court system can feel overwhelming, but understanding the procedures helps protect your interests. By learning about the correct forms to use, deadlines to meet, and available alternatives, you can make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary risks. The N244 and N245 forms and CCJ’s – All you need to know – Creditfix article provides practical advice on court forms and the importance of considering mediation.
If you need to change the terms of a court order for debt, Citizens Advice offers a helpful guide on changing a court order for debt – Citizens Advice, including information about Form N245 and the steps involved.
Finally, for official guidance and to download Form N245, visit the Apply to suspend a warrant or vary payments made by a court order: Form N245 – GOV.UK page.
By making use of these resources, you can approach the court process with greater confidence and ensure your rights are fully protected.
