Subpoena Explanation & Roadmap - Judicial Collection 2026.

A subpoena is usually not your first step. Often you've already sent reminders, made phone calls and maybe even tried a collection process. Still, payment remains outstanding. Then it's time to go to court.

With a subpoena, you ask the judge to rule on your claim. This is a big step, but sometimes exactly what is needed. Especially if:

• Your customer still doesn't pay after multiple reminders
• You have already tried out-of-court debt collection with no results
• Your customer disputes the invoice and you can't work things out together
• You want a clear ruling so that you can then file for garnishment

Do you still doubt whether a writ is wise in your situation? If so, we will first look at your file and your debtor's chances of recovery together.

A subpoena is an official document by which you summon your client to appear in court. The summons is personally served on your debtor by a bailiff. The subpoena states, among other things:

• Who you are and who the debtor is
• Exactly what is open and what you are entitled to
• What steps you have already taken to collect the debt
• What costs, interest and collection fees you claim
• On what date and where the session will take place

In 2026, subpoena requirements are strict. The judge looks critically at the content, the calculation of collection costs and whether you have complied with all the rules, such as the correct 14-day letter in the case of consumers. A mistake can mean that your claim is (partially) dismissed.

That's why we have every subpoena reviewed by our lawyers. This way you avoid investing time, money and energy in a procedure that is unnecessarily risky. Would you like to know more about the procedure itself? Then also read our explanation of the judicial procedure.

When you start a subpoena with us, we take charge. You keep the overview in your online dashboard, we make sure every step is done on time and carefully.

Step 1: Legal check of your file

Before we draft a subpoena, we do a legal scan of your file. Among other things, we check:

• Whether your 14-day letter to consumers is correct
• Whether all invoices, agreements and deliveries are properly recorded
• Whether the interest and collection costs claimed were calculated correctly
• Whether there are means of redress, such as income, property or home ownership

We are fair when the chances of success are limited. You have no use for a verdict if there is nothing to gain.

Step 2: Drafting the subpoena

Our lawyers write the subpoena in plain language and solidly substantiate your claim. We include in it:

• The principal amount you are owed
• The legal interest rate or legal commercial interest rate
• The extrajudicial collection costs
• An application to the court to order the debtor to pay litigation costs

Step 3: Payment by the bailiff

The summons is officially served on your client by the bailiff's writ. From that moment on, your debtor knows that the case is in court and that he must prepare for a hearing.

Step 4: The hearing at the subdistrict court

For claims up to 25,000 euros, you usually end up in the district court. The debtor may respond in writing and a hearing often follows. We act as your representative, speak and respond to the arguments of the other party. So you are not alone.

After the hearing, the judge makes a ruling. If you are right, a judgment follows. That verdict is an official title with which we can start collecting. In principle, this title is valid for 20 years.

With the judgment, we can take several steps with the bailiff, such as:

• Foreclosing on your debtor's salary or benefits
• Bank seizure so assets are tied up
• Seizing valuable property, such as a car
• In some cases prepare attachment of a home or commercial property

We always consider what measure is appropriate and proportionate in your situation. The goal is that you get your money, in a way that is legally sound and carefully executed.

Litigation often feels expensive, but the main rule is clear: usually the losing party pays most of the litigation costs. In the summons, we ask the judge to order your debtor to pay the costs. Consider:

• The bailiff's costs for serving the summons
• Court fees
• A fee for your agent's work according to the liquidation rate

With an awarded claim, in many cases most of these costs are recovered from the debtor. We discuss with you in advance what to expect, so you know exactly where you stand.

Would you first like to know whether your collection file is suitable for a legal step? Then together we will look at the amount of your claim, the likelihood of recovery and the cost-benefit consideration.

A subpoena is not a standard letter. It's custom-made where legal knowledge, strategy and experience come together. This is how we help you:

• You will have a team with experienced lawyers and a regular contact person
• We think with you about the smartest strategy, not just the right
• You follow each step online in your own dashboard
• We move quickly once the amicable process gets bogged down
• We are honest if litigation is not wise in your situation

Our goal is not just a judgment, but above all that you get your money. With respect for your client relationship, but also with clear boundaries if payment is not forthcoming.