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Can the bailiff take your things for an unpaid debt in Denmark?

The enforcement court (fogedretten).

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Short answer

A creditor can send an unpaid debt to the enforcement court (fogedretten), which mainly handles simple cases where there is no doubt about the debt, such as a settlement, a judgment or a debt certificate. The court can levy enforcement (udlæg) on your belongings, and assets such as a car can be sold at a forced auction (tvangsauktion). If you do not turn up, the bailiff can come to your home with the police and demand the items. The most essential things, such as a bed or a fridge, may not be taken.

Practical info

Why

  1. The enforcement court acts when the debt is clear.
  2. Not turning up can lead to a home visit with the police.
  3. Basic household items are protected.

Details

If you lose a court case about a debt, you normally also pay the court costs, which can be large.

Tip

Always respond to court papers and turn up, because if you stay away the creditor will usually win.

What may differ

The enforcement court generally only takes simple cases, so a disputed debt usually has to be decided by an ordinary court first.

Common misconception

Many think the bailiff can take everything in the home.

What actually happens

The most essential items, such as a bed or a fridge, are protected from udlæg.

People also ask

  • What is udlæg?
  • Can I be registered in RKI for an unpaid bill?
  • What happens if I ignore a stævning?

Sources

This answer is for reference only. Payment rules, limits and fees change, so check the official sources or your bank before you pay.

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