In brief: how to choose a sworn bailiff, what to indicate in the application, and how much it will cost. A detailed guide is attached.
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You have a writ of execution in hand — did you know that a sworn bailiff will not start work until you submit an application yourself?
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Did you know that the application must indicate the methods of recovery — otherwise the sworn bailiff will not be able to seize the debtor’s account or car?
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How much does it cost to submit a writ of execution for enforcement, and what expenses will be recovered from the debtor?
A creditor received a writ of execution and decided the matter was settled. For three months the writ of execution lay in a drawer, the sworn bailiff knew nothing about it, and the debtor re-registered the property. A writ of execution remains valid for 10 years (Article 546 of the Civil Procedure Law), but the sooner it reaches a sworn bailiff, the greater the chances of receiving the money.
Whom to choose
A sworn bailiff is obliged to accept the case if the debtor’s address, property, or workplace is located in their district (Article 549 of the Civil Procedure Law). A list and address search can be found at lzti.lv. If the debt exceeds 10 000 euros, check there whether the sworn bailiff has a limit for such cases.
Where to get the application form
court.lv: “Support” → “Standard document templates” → “Application to a sworn bailiff for debt recovery.” Or on lzti.lv in the “Forms” section.
What to write
The parties’ details, the writ of execution number, the amount, your own account, and the methods of recovery (Article 567 of the Civil Procedure Law): seizure of accounts, deductions from income, seizure and sale of property, foreclosure on real estate. It is advisable to mark all methods at once.
How much to pay
State fee — 3 euros (an invoice can be created at izsoles.ta.gov.lv under “Other services”). Additionally — an advance for enforcement expenses; the amount is set by the sworn bailiff. The fee, expenses, and the sworn bailiff’s remuneration are later recovered from the debtor (Article 568 of the Civil Procedure Law).
What to attach and how to submit
For an electronic writ of execution — only the number is needed; for a paper format — only the original. A payment order confirming payment of the 3 euro fee, and a power of attorney if required. An application with an eParaksts (e-signature) can be sent to the sworn bailiff’s e-mail; in paper format — submitted at the office or sent by registered mail.
What happens next
The bailiff gives the debtor 10 days to pay (Article 555 of the Civil Procedure Law), after which the methods of recovery you indicated are applied and the money is transferred to your account. The progress of the case can be tracked at izsoles.ta.gov.lv under “My enforcement cases.”
A writ of execution sitting in a drawer will not recover anything. Recovery is carried out by a sworn bailiff — upon your application.
The information is current as of the publication date; fees and details may change. This article should not be considered legal advice.