Hey all, I have a county court hearing this afternoon to hear my N244 application to set aside a judgment. The claimant just sent me the alleged agreement this morning, and I haven’t had time to review it properly. Do I have any grounds to get the hearing adjourned so I can take advice on this new info?
I was in a similar situation last year. I requested an adjournment due to late evidence, and the judge granted it. Just be honest about needing time to review the new docs.
Freddie said:
I was in a similar situation last year. I requested an adjournment due to late evidence, and the judge granted it. Just be honest about needing time to review the new docs.
Thanks, that’s reassuring to hear. Did you have to provide any specific reasons or just explain the late evidence?
@Eli
I just explained that I received the documents late and needed time to consult with my lawyer. The judge was understanding about it.
IDK about adjournments, but make sure you have a solid defense. Judges need to see that you’re serious about contesting the claim.
Amari said:
IDK about adjournments, but make sure you have a solid defense. Judges need to see that you’re serious about contesting the claim.
Good point. I’m planning to argue that I never received the original claim since it was sent to my parents’ address where I haven’t lived in years.
@Eli
That sounds like a valid defense. Just be prepared to explain everything clearly to the judge.
FYI, in small claims court, judges sometimes allow last-minute evidence. It might be worth mentioning that you just got the docs today.
Val said:
FYI, in small claims court, judges sometimes allow last-minute evidence. It might be worth mentioning that you just got the docs today.
That’s interesting. So, I should highlight the timing when I speak to the judge?
@Eli
Yeah, definitely. It shows that you haven’t had a fair chance to review the evidence against you.
Just curious, what’s an N244 application?
Mori said:
Just curious, what’s an N244 application?
It’s a form used in UK courts to apply for things like setting aside a judgment or requesting a hearing adjournment.
Mori said:
Just curious, what’s an N244 application?
It’s a form used in UK courts to apply for things like setting aside a judgment or requesting a hearing adjournment.
Got it, thanks for explaining!
If the agreement is from 2005, there might be legal issues with its enforceability. Maybe bring that up too?
Oaklan said:
If the agreement is from 2005, there might be legal issues with its enforceability. Maybe bring that up too?
Good point. I’ll mention that and see if it helps my case.