How to Settle a Dispute about Money Owed

How to Settle a Dispute about Money Owed

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Repeatedly, we see situations where a debt has been left for so long that the client and customer relationship has broken down. Usually this happens because someone is not dealing with complaints or the client is simply not responding at all to their customer, putting their head in the sand. 

Often many thousands of dollars are left sitting on accounts ledgers because companies do not have adequate complaint systems in place. We have seen many thousands of dollars simply written off, as the client has simply not been equipped with the systems or knowledge to adequately respond to complaints or disputes. 

A good percentage of debts can be avoided if you have a decent dispute resolution in place. A simple paragraph in your documentation or a process customers can follow on your website regarding complaints resolution is all that is needed. 

Both parties have rights when it comes to disputes. There are two main areas that cover SME’s and companies: the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) and the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 (CCA, formerly the Trade Practices Act 1974). 

Further to these the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is the national government agency which promotes compliance with the CCA and, where necessary, takes legal action against businesses that break the law. 

Have a good, plain English complaints and disputes handling procedure that both your clients and your staff know how to follow. This will serve to protect both you and your customers. By taking these simple steps before any disputes result and save you a great deal of pain in the long run. 

If your debtor still refuses to pay, this is when you outsource to a professional. Make sure this is done immediately. By outsourcing fast to a debt collection professional, you are sending a strong message to your clients/customers that you mean to get payment, no matter what. They will learn to respect your sound business practices. More importantly, word will get around to other customers that you are not to be trifled with. Deal with disputes promptly, then outsource quickly if you are sure you are still in the right and the debt needs to be collected. 

If you require any legal assistance or would like further information regarding this topic, please feel free to contact our team for advice on 1300 799 820, or email them at email@adclegal.com.au. 

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Email: email@debtrecoveries.com.au

Call Us: +61 1300 799 511

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