The court desk, which is run by the bureau, can be accessed by anyone who has a repossession hearing at Lincoln County Court.
An expert caseworker offers free advice and, where appropriate, representation to anyone who has a repossession hearing that day.
Anybody who thinks they may be in danger of losing their home should seek advice as soon as possible.
If proceedings do progress to court it is extremely important to turn up and attend the hearing, as the court can only consider non-eviction if an individual attends in person to explain the situation.
The hearing is held in private and judges are often approachable and sympathetic towards those who attend.
It is essential to turn up to court at least 30 minutes before a case is due to be heard, as the bureau caseworker will need to find out what has happened so far. They need to see all the relevant paperwork, including Court papers, the Notice of repossession, proof of income or benefits, and details of the mortgage or tenancy. An assessment is then made on whether it would be possible to meet future commitments, whether for rent or mortgage, and pay something off the arrears.
It could still be possible to come to an agreement with your mortgage lender or landlord to avoid re-possession.
If the situation is less clear cut, but there may be the possibility of a solution in the near future (for example, an entitlement to Housing Benefit) then the Court will be asked for an adjournment to give a little more time to sort things out.
If an outright possession order is inevitable because there is no income or money available, then it is helpful to talk to the housing professionals from Lincoln City Council who are also present at the Help Desk on the day. They can advise on how to make a homeless application and the options available after a home has been repossessed.
It could still be possible to come to a new agreement with the mortgage lender or landlord to avoid repossession.
The court desk is available on repossession days, usually Thursdays from 10 am - 12.00 noon.
