What is the County Court Business Centre?
The County Court Business Centre (CCBC) is an administrative centre for county courts in England and Wales. It was established in 2015 as part of a modernisation program by Her Majesty’s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS). The CCBC handles a wide range of cases, including money claims, possession claims, and enforcement of judgments.
The purpose of the CCBC is to centralize the administration of these cases and improve efficiency in the court system. This means that instead of filing your claim or application directly with your local county court, you can submit it to the CCBC online or by post. The CCBC then processes the case and allocates it to the appropriate county court for hearing.
How does the CCBC operate?
The CCBC operates through an online portal called the Secure Data Transfer (SDT) system. This system allows parties to submit their claims, applications, and supporting documents electronically. The system also enables parties to track the progress of their case, receive updates and correspondence from the court, and make payments online.
In addition to the online portal, parties can also submit their claims and applications by post. However, using the online system is strongly encouraged as it is more efficient and reduces processing times.
What types of cases does the CCBC handle?
The CCBC handles three main types of cases:
1. Money claims – These are claims for debts or damages up to £100,000, excluding personal injury claims. These claims can be submitted by individuals, businesses, or organizations.
2. Possession claims – These are claims for the recovery of property, such as a rented property or a mortgaged property. These claims can be submitted by landlords, tenants, or mortgage lenders.
3. Enforcement of judgments – If a party has been awarded a judgment in their favour but the other party has not complied, they can use the CCBC to enforce the judgment. This can include actions such as seizing assets or obtaining an order for the sale of property.
Frequently Asked Questions About the CCBC
1. Do I have to use the CCBC for my case?
Yes, if your claim or application falls under one of the three categories mentioned above, you must use the CCBC. This is mandatory and failure to do so may result in your case being rejected or delayed.
2. Can I still use paper forms instead of the online system?
In some cases, yes. The CCBC allows for paper forms to be submitted in certain circumstances, such as when there are technical issues with the online system or if a party is unable to access the internet. However, it is recommended to use the online system whenever possible to ensure a smoother and faster process.
3. How long does it take for a case to be processed by the CCBC?
The processing times for cases can vary depending on the complexity and number of cases being handled by the CCBC at any given time. However, most cases are processed within 10 working days.
4. Can I track the progress of my case after submitting it to the CCBC?
Yes, once your case has been allocated to a county court, you will receive an email notification with details on how to track its progress using the online portal.
5. Can I still attend court hearings in person for cases handled by the CCBC?
Yes, once your case has been allocated to a county court, you will be notified of the date and time of the hearing. You are expected to attend in person unless otherwise directed by the court.
6. What are the fees for using the CCBC?
The fees for using the CCBC vary depending on the type of case and the amount being claimed. You can find a list of fees on the HMCTS website.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the County Court Business Centre plays an important role in streamlining and modernizing the county court system in England and Wales. By centralising the administration of certain cases, it aims to improve efficiency and provide a more accessible and user-friendly experience for parties involved in legal matters. If you have a case falling under one of the categories handled by the CCBC, it is important to familiarise yourself with its processes and procedures to ensure a smooth and successful outcome.
