Legal News
Bankruptcy applications to become electronic from 6 April (22 March 2016)
Date: 22/03/2016
From 6 April changes will be made to the way in which an application for bankruptcy is made, with the process going online rather than via a court hearing.
Up until the end of the day on 5 April 2016, all bankruptcy applications will be processed under the existing rules and will have to be submitted to the court and looked at by a judge.
This means attending a court hearing in order to be made bankrupt.
From 6 April 2016, bankruptcy applications will move online and out of the courts – an electronic form will be completed online and those filing for bankruptcy will no longer have to attend court.
The new online application will be able available on GOV.UK from 6 April.
Once the application has been submitted online, the Adjudicator will make a decision about an application – the Adjudicator is a government official who works for the Insolvency Service and their role is to review and make decisions about bankruptcy applications.
Fees for bankruptcy application will also change from 6 April – those applying for bankruptcy up until the court closes on 5 April you will have to pay the current cost of £705 in cash at the court before an application can be submitted.
From 6 April 2016, the fee will decrease to £655, which includes a charge of £130 for considering an application and £525 for the management of a bankruptcy.
Applicants will be able to make payments online and pay in instalments from £5 – however, the total fee must be paid before an application for bankruptcy can be considered.
Duncan Lewis Business Crime Solicitors
Duncan Lewis business crime solicitors can advise at any stage of a bankruptcy or insolvency – including advising companies and individuals on investigations by HMRC, the Insolvency Service or BIS.
There are Duncan Lewis offices nationwide and our business crime department can also advise on disqualification from holding a directorship, breaches of bankruptcy restriction orders, hidden assets or illegal transfer of assets, and failing to keep adequate records or submit adequate records to the Liquidator.
For expert legal advice on insolvency and bankruptcy, call Duncan Lewis business crime solicitors on 0333 772 0409.