How long do I have to file a defence?

14 days from service, extended to 28 days if you file an acknowledgment of service first.

What if I miss the deadline?

The claimant can request default judgment. If that happens you may need to apply to set the judgment aside — see our N244 Application Assistance service.

Can BLS represent me in court?

BLS is a legal consultancy. We prepare your defence and supporting documents and can refer you to authorised representation for the hearing.

Response within 1 working day
Remote consultations available
Supporting clients across England & Wales
Transparent fixed-fee options where available

Civil Litigation Support

Defence Drafting Services

Structured, compliant defences prepared to meet the CPR Part 16 deadline.

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Response within one working day from our West Midlands office.

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Overview

How we help

If you have been served with a claim, the deadline to respond is short and the consequences of getting it wrong are serious. We help you prepare a clear, well-structured defence within the deadline, and — where appropriate — a counterclaim.

Who this is for: Individuals and businesses who have been served with a County Court or High Court claim and need to file a defence.

What is included

Analysis of the claim form and particulars of claim
Acknowledgment of service preparation
Drafting a compliant defence following CPR Part 16
Counterclaim drafting where you have a cross-claim
Preparation of supporting witness statement and evidence
Strategy for defended matters including negotiation and Part 36 offers

Process

How the process works

01
Deadline check
We confirm your deadlines and file an acknowledgment of service to extend time to 28 days if needed.
02
Analysis
We work through each allegation and identify admissions, denials and non-admissions.
03
Drafting
We prepare your defence and, if appropriate, counterclaim.
04
Filing and next steps
We help you file on time and plan the next steps, from directions to disclosure.

When we help

Common situations we help with

Every matter is different, but the following situations come up frequently. If any of these sound like yours, we can help.

You have received a claim form and particulars
You disagree with all or part of the claim
You believe the claimant owes you money in return
You need to file within the 14 or 28 day deadline
Default judgment has been entered and you need to set it aside

Frequently asked

Common questions

How long do I have to file a defence?: 14 days from service, extended to 28 days if you file an acknowledgment of service first.
What if I miss the deadline?: The claimant can request default judgment. If that happens you may need to apply to set the judgment aside — see our N244 Application Assistance service.
Can BLS represent me in court?: BLS is a legal consultancy. We prepare your defence and supporting documents and can refer you to authorised representation for the hearing.

Enquire

Send a confidential enquiry

Tell us briefly about your situation. A member of the civil litigation support team will be in touch within one working day using your preferred method of contact.

Or contact us directly

+44 7747 234225·info@boadulegalservices.com