Marston Group chasing for a debt over 10 years old

[jazzlover1963]

I firstly recieved a letter last year September (I think), the debt is to do with car tax not being paid, fines not paid, even though I paid £250 all those ago, but for some reason had £10 to pay and I thought it was.

 

I'm still vague as to the debt all those years ago, the letter I recieved was to ring the company (can't remember what company then)to make an arrangement to the court, I explained to the lady this debt goes back over 10 years, and I couldn't remember what cars I had back then etc.

 

Today I recieved a call from my ex wife to say that Marston Group want me to get hold of their warrant officer. When I spoke to him he said that I had to make a Voluntary attendance to the court next friday, and they will give me means form to fill in. If I don't attend hey will make attempts to arrest me....hmmm.

 

Can a company chase me for a debt for all those years ago, I haven't avoided them, this only happened when I changed my address on my driving license and not knowing about his debt.

 

The debt is £1259.18, this is the only info I can remember, so can anyone help me?

 

Many thanks

[blueda]

Ordinary debt are time barred after 6 years in England, 5 years in Scotland, im not sure about car tax though as that is government tax and could very well be different. Someone should be along to advise you on this, you should also contact your local citizens advice.

[loobyloo85]

As far as I am aware, it is treated in the same way as any of HMRC debt

[jazzlover1963]

Which is?

[cerberusalert]

Both, they are owed to the Crown.

[jazzlover1963]

Can someone explain this to me, as I have only a week.

[cerberusalert]

Under normal circumstances a debt would become Statute Barred after six years in England/Wales, five years in Scotland. However certain debts never become Statute Barred & those include fines & debts to the Crown.

 

Unfortunately the debt you have will be inflated due to bailiff charges etc., so instead of just the car tax arrears & fines it will have escalated to the figure it is now.

 

I don't know of a 'work around' this or even if there is a way out, but you may be better posting the question in either the bailiffs forum Bailiffs and Sheriff Officers - The Consumer Forums or the legal forum Legal Issues - The Consumer Forums

 

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