The Administration of Justice Act 1970 outlines the rules and boundaries against the harassment of people by their creditors or agents. The Act says that harassment by creditors is a criminal offence under the Administration of Justice Act 1970.
Harassment definition in the Administration of Justice Act 1970
The Administration of Justice Act 1970 outlines unlawful harassment of debtors.
The Act says that when a creditor coerces a debtor by harassing them for payment to an extent to which the debtor, their family or household becomes alarmed, distressed or humiliated, their actions are harassment.
The Act also notes that if a creditor is falsely represented as an official that can claim or enforce payment, or by using a false document that declares that they are an official which they are not, is also an offence under the Administration of Justice Act 1970.
If a creditor chooses not to harass the debtor directly, but uses another person to harass the debtor in the ways listed above, it's considered harassment under the Act even though their own conduct was not harassment.
Knowing your debt rights
Because it is often difficult to know where the line is drawn when your creditors are chasing you for money, the Administration of Justice Act 1970 outlines where your rights lie.
Be sure to seek advice if you feel that your creditor is violating the Administration of Justice Act 1970.
If you're unsure if your creditor is acting within the Administration of Justice Act 1970, contact Legal Advice Helpline on 0800 612 3042 for advice.