42.03  Appearance And Defence: Debt Claim

What this form is for

• • You use this form when someone has sued you over an unpaid debt.
• • It serves as your formal notification to the court that you are involved in the case.
• • You must complete it to state your defence against the claim.
• • Use this if you are not simply paying the debt immediately.

Use this form or another form?

Deadline or filing window

Check the documents you received for the exact deadline. Generally, this must be filed within a set period after the claim was served on you.

Before you submit

• • Have you filled in your full name and address correctly?
• • Is the case number (if provided) written exactly as it appears on the claim document?
• • Have you clearly stated whether you admit or deny the debt?
• • If giving a defence, is it detailed enough to explain why you disagree?
• • Are all required boxes ticked or filled in completely?
• • Is the date of completion accurate?

How to file this form

1. 1Complete all sections of Form 42.03 clearly and legibly.
2. 2Sign and date the form where indicated (this is your official declaration).
3. 3Make copies of the fully completed form for yourself.
4. 4Submit the original copy to the relevant Court Office or via the Courts Service online portal.
5. 5If serving personally, ensure you hand it directly to the opposing party's solicitor or representative.

Known limitations

• • This form does not replace a full written statement of defence; it initiates that process.
• • The specific local court procedures might require additional supporting documents (like invoices) attached to this form.
• • Not confirmed in official source: Whether you must file it electronically or physically depends on the specific court handling your case.