Attachment of earnings

Page 2 of 14

Who can an attachment of earnings order be made against?

You can ask for an attachment of earnings order unless the defendant is:

• unemployed or self employed;
• a firm or limited company;
• in the army, navy or air force; or
• a merchant seaman.

There are special arrangements for getting money form someone in the armed forces or a merchant seaman. Court staff will be able to give you more information.

Before you decide how to go ahead, you need to consider whether you are likely to get back the money owed and the court fee from the defendant. Remember, no court can guarantee that you will get your money back.