How We Help Serve Statutory Demands & Bankruptcy Petitions
October 20, 2023 - Reading time: 11 minutes
Updated on: September 3, 2025
When you’re trying to recover a debt, especially a significant one, the process can feel stressful and uncertain. Whether it is unpaid invoices, breached agreements, or overdue loans, there may come a point where formal legal action becomes the only viable route. Serving a statutory demand or a bankruptcy petition is a key part of that legal strategy, and it needs to be executed correctly.
At Private Investigators UK, we offer a professional, fully compliant process serving service — ensuring documents are delivered accurately, effectively, and with proper legal documentation.
What Is a Statutory Demand?
A statutory demand is a formal legal notice used to request repayment of a debt. It is most commonly issued under the Insolvency Act 1986 and gives the debtor 21 days to repay, reach a repayment agreement, or apply to set it aside.
If they do not act, the creditor has grounds to begin insolvency proceedings. More information is available on gov.uk.
What If the Debtor Wants to Challenge It?
They may apply to set aside the demand if the debt is disputed or already paid. The matter could then be referred to court for a judge to decide.
When Does Bankruptcy Come Into It?
If the debtor ignores the statutory demand and owes more than £5,000, the creditor can apply for a bankruptcy petition. This is where a judge may declare the individual bankrupt and their assets may be sold to repay creditors.
The petition must be served correctly. Errors can cause delays or rejection in court. Read more at gov.uk.
What Is Process Serving and Why Does It Matter?
Process serving is the delivery of legal documents in a way that satisfies court rules. If you are serving a statutory demand or bankruptcy petition, using a qualified process server is the safest way to avoid problems.
Debtors often try to avoid service by disappearing. Proof of service is essential to move your case forward — and ordinary post is rarely enough.
Why Use a Private Investigator for Process Serving?
Private investigators bring more skills than couriers or bailiffs. At PI-UK we provide:
- In-person delivery – we serve documents directly at home, work, or other known addresses.
- Full documentation – photographs, affidavits, and witness statements are supplied.
- Debtor tracing – if the subject has moved, our people tracing service helps track them down.
How We Locate Debtors Trying to Avoid Service
Many debtors facing bankruptcy try to disappear — moving address, staying with relatives, or using aliases. We use OSINT, digital footprint checks, and field enquiries to find them quickly and lawfully.
What Happens After a Successful Serve?
We issue a detailed Affidavit of Service confirming when, where, and how the serve took place. This sworn statement strengthens your case in court. If the debtor still refuses, you can proceed with confidence to bankruptcy or further court action.
What If the Debtor Refuses to Accept the Documents?
Under UK law, refusal does not invalidate service. If the debtor is identified and told the nature of the documents, placing them at their feet or nearby counts as valid service.
Other Documents We Serve
- Divorce papers
- Non-molestation orders
- Injunctions
- Witness summons
- Possession orders
- Court summons
Need Urgent Help Serving Papers?
Our licensed investigators provide fast, discreet and legally valid process serving across the UK.
Get a Free Quote
We provide fast, no-pressure quotes on all cases. Contact us with your postcode and details. We usually reply within one business day with a transparent, no-obligation quote.
Whether you are a solicitor with a heavy caseload or an individual seeking justice, our process servers are ready to help.
Glossary
- Statutory demand – a formal demand for repayment of debt under the Insolvency Act 1986.
- Bankruptcy petition – legal request to declare an individual bankrupt.
- Process serving – official delivery of legal documents with proof of service.
- Affidavit of service – sworn statement confirming a document has been served correctly.
- Debtor tracing – investigative work to find someone avoiding creditors.
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