posted 24th July 2025
Losing a case in small claims court can feel daunting, and one of the biggest concerns people have is whether they’ll get a County Court Judgment (CCJ). The truth is, losing doesn’t always mean you’ll have a CCJ on your record. If you’re based in the West Midlands or surrounding areas, Meridian Legal Services is here to help you understand what happens next and how to protect yourself.
What Is a CCJ?
A County Court Judgment (CCJ) is a court order issued when someone owes money and hasn’t paid it. Once recorded, it stays on your credit file for six years, affecting your ability to get loans, mortgages, or even mobile phone contracts.
For residents and businesses in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Dudley, Walsall, and beyond, Meridian Legal Services provides expert advice on preventing and managing CCJs.
Does Losing in Small Claims Court Automatically Mean a CCJ?
No, you only receive a CCJ if you fail to pay the court-ordered amount within 30 days.
Example: If the court orders you to pay £500 and you pay in full within the deadline, no CCJ is recorded.
Failing to pay within 30 days results in the CCJ being registered and visible to lenders for six years.
Meridian Legal Services helps clients across the West Midlands understand judgments and take immediate steps to prevent long-term credit issues.
What Happens After Losing in Small Claims Court?
- Judgment Issued – The court confirms how much you owe.
- 30-Day Payment Window – Pay within 30 days to avoid registration.
- Payment Plans – If you can’t pay in full, you may apply for a payment arrangement (but it still counts as a CCJ if registered).
- Enforcement – Failure to pay could result in enforcement officers or bailiffs being instructed.
If you live in Birmingham, Wolverhampton, or surrounding areas, our local team can advise you on your options and support you in dealing with the outcome quickly.
How to Avoid a CCJ
- Pay Promptly: Pay the judgment in full within 30 days.
- Negotiate a Settlement: If you can’t pay in one go, try agreeing a settlement or payment plan with the claimant.
- Challenge the Judgment: If you think it’s wrong, you may be able to have it set aside (see below).
Meridian Legal Services has extensive experience supporting clients across the West Midlands with settlement negotiations and CCJ prevention.
How to Get a CCJ Set Aside
Sometimes, CCJs are issued when you were unaware of the claim (e.g., it was sent to an old address) or there’s a valid defence. You can apply to have the judgment “set aside”.
- Steps:
- Complete Form N244 – Available from the court.
- Give Valid Reasons – Examples include incorrect service or having a strong defence.
- Pay the Fee – Typically £275
- Attend the Hearing – A judge decides whether to remove the CCJ.
- If Approved – The CCJ is removed, and the case may be reheard.
Meridian Legal Services, based in the West Midlands, regularly assists clients with set-aside applications, ensuring cases are handled professionally and efficiently.
What Can I Do If I Want to Make a Small Claim but Don’t Want to Risk Losing?
Taking someone to court can feel risky, there are ways to reduce the chance of losing.
- Seek Professional Legal Advice – Get your case reviewed before you file a claim.
- Consider Mediation or Negotiation – Many disputes can be resolved without court.
- Use Experienced Support – Having experts guide you improves your chances of success.
We Are Here To Help
Meridian Legal Services, based in the West Midlands, offers:
- Free initial case assessments to determine if your claim is strong.
- Support with dispute resolution and mediation.
- Professional small claims representation with Direct Access to Barristers.
Click here to get your free case assessment.
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