How to Appeal a Bailiff’s Actions in Court
Learn how to challenge unlawful bailiff actions with expert legal advice.
To receive an enforcement document and transfer it for enforcement to the system of enforcement agencies is not a guarantee of repayment of a debt or fulfillment by the debtor of another obligation. Many companies notice that the execution process is not moving and there is no contact with the bailiff. In such a situation, the actions or inaction of the bailiff can be appealed. An experienced lawyer can study the grounds for appeal and prepare a complaint.
How long the actions (inaction) of the bailiff can be appealed
When the claimant believes and can prove that the bailiff is not fulfilling his duties, it is possible to appeal the inaction or actions of the bailiff. The complaint is filed within 10 days after the claimant has found out the fact of inaction (actions) of the bailiff.
The recoverer may appeal against the decision of the bailiff, with which he does not agree, within 10 days after receiving this decision. The complaint is made in the form of a written document.
Where to file a complaint about the actions (inaction) of the bailiff
A complaint against the actions (inaction) of the bailiff is submitted to the head of the enforcement authority. If the recoverer does not agree with the outcome of the consideration of such a complaint, you can complain to the court at the location of the enforcement authority.
The recoverer may immediately appeal to the court the decision of the head of the enforcement authority on the debtor’s complaint against the actions (inaction) of the bailiff.
State duty
There is no need to pay a state fee for filing a complaint against the actions (inaction) of a bailiff to the head of the enforcement authority. Before sending a complaint to the court about the actions (inaction) of the bailiff, it is necessary to pay a state fee — 1 basic amount (37 Belarusian rubles) when considering a case on a complaint from an individual on issues not related to economic activity. Before filing a complaint to the economic court, a state duty of 20 basic units (740 Belarusian rubles) must be paid.
How a complaint against the actions of a bailiff is considered by the enforcement authority
The head of the enforcement authority shall consider the complaint within 10 days from the date of its receipt. He may ask the claimant for additional documents. In this case, the supervisor will suspend the period of consideration of the complaint, and then resume. The claimant is not called for consideration of the complaint.
What decision can be made on the complaint
The head of the enforcement authority may:
- Recognize the actions (inaction) of the bailiff as lawful and to refuse to satisfy the claim to the recoverer.
- Recognize the appealed actions (inaction) of the bailiff as illegal and write what measures need to be taken to eliminate violations.
Resolution on the results of consideration of the complaint
The resolution on the results of consideration of the complaint is sent to the parties to the enforcement proceedings (the recoverer and the debtor) on the day of acceptance or the day after acceptance.
The deadline for the execution of the resolution based on the results of consideration of the complaint
If the complaint is recognized as justified, the deadline for execution is set by the head of the enforcement authority in his decision on the results of consideration of the complaint.
How does the court consider a complaint against the actions (inaction) of the bailiff
The court considers the complaint in a court session, with the call of interested representatives of the parties. The court shall consider the complaint no later than 1 month from the date of receipt of the complaint to the court.
Jurisdiction and Deadlines for Filing an Appeal
The Economic Procedure Code of Belarus clearly states that an appeal against a bailiff’s actions must be submitted to the court located in the same district as the enforcement body. Filing a complaint in the wrong jurisdiction will result in its return. For example, if the enforcement body is in one District of the city, applying to a court in the other is procedurally incorrect.
The legal timeframe for appealing a bailiff’s actions is also regulated. A complaint must be filed within 10 days from the date the decision was issued by the head of the enforcement agency. This decision is typically sent by registered mail with proof of delivery. In cases of inaction or unlawful conduct, the 10-day period begins either on the date of the action or when the complainant becomes aware of it.
If the deadline is missed, it may be restored by the court, provided a motion is submitted.
Our Services
When Can You Appeal a Bailiff’s Actions or Inaction?
No Time for Voluntary Compliance
If the bailiff initiates enforcement but does not give you the legally required 7 days to comply voluntarily, this is a clear violation and can be appealed.
Failure to Summon Debtor
You may challenge the enforcement process if the bailiff fails to summon you or your representative to provide explanations or necessary documentation before taking further steps.
Ignoring Free Data Requests
Bailiffs are authorized to collect data and documents free of charge. If they fail to obtain these and it affects your case, you may appeal their inaction.
No Access to Personal Data
Bailiffs can request personal data without written consent. If they don’t act on this authority when needed, it may hinder enforcement and become grounds for appeal.
Missing Notarial Records
When a bailiff ignores their right to access notarial secrets and related documents, they may miss critical information, weakening enforcement and justifying a legal complaint.
No Enforcement Measures Taken
If the bailiff fails to take active steps to enforce the court order—such as initiating recovery — you have the right to file an appeal for inaction.
No Asset Freeze
You can appeal if the bailiff neglects to freeze the debtor’s assets or bank accounts, allowing them to hide or spend funds before repayment.
Debtor Not Placed on Wanted List
If the debtor disappears and the bailiff fails to request a search through internal affairs, this serious oversight can and should be legally contested.
No Action Restrictions Imposed
Failure to impose necessary restrictions, such as banning property sales that would obstruct enforcement, may seriously harm your case and is subject to appeal.
Failure to Seize Funds or Assets
If the bailiff does not seize available funds or property to cover the debt, their inaction can be formally challenged as a failure to act.
No Property Access Attempted
Bailiffs must access the debtor’s land or buildings to identify enforceable assets. Failure to do so may delay recovery and provide valid reasons for appeal.
No Property Inspection Conducted
You can appeal if the bailiff neglects to inspect areas where the debtor may be hiding valuables or assets that should be seized.
No Recording of Actions
Bailiffs are required to document their actions using video, audio, or photos. If they skip this, especially during key procedures, it can be challenged.
No Wage Enforcement Checked
If the bailiff fails to confirm whether an employer is withholding wages from the debtor to repay the debt, they are neglecting a key duty.
Main Challenges in Appealing a Bailiff’s Actions
Identifying the Right Official
It can be difficult to determine which enforcement authority or officer should receive the complaint, especially due to confusing structures and similar official titles.
Choosing the Correct Court
Applicants often struggle to identify whether to apply to the economic or general jurisdiction court, and to determine the proper district or regional court.
Complaint Formatting Requirements
Strict procedural rules govern how a complaint should be drafted. Mistakes in form or content may result in the complaint being returned without review.
Different Review Procedures
Complaints to higher authorities and court complaints follow different regulations, leading to confusion and mistakes in choosing the correct process and expectations.
Strict Filing Deadlines
Missing the complaint deadline can block your legal path. Professionals must act quickly to study your case and prepare an appropriate complaint on time.
Limited Bailiff Accessibility
Bailiffs have limited reception hours and are often away from the office on official duties, making it hard to meet and clarify issues in person.
Not Always the Best Solution
Filing a complaint is not always the most effective way. A well-prepared personal meeting with the bailiff or their supervisor may solve the issue faster.
Need for Professional Expertise
Only experienced legal professionals truly understand enforcement procedures, applicable laws, and how to navigate system gaps to achieve positive results efficiently.
What Must Be Included in a Complaint (Protest) Against a Bailiff
Why Us
Individual Approach
We treat each case with full attention to detail, tailoring our legal strategy to your specific situation and ensuring the most effective path to resolve your issue.
Proven Expertise in Bailiff Appeals
We have developed our own methods and legal techniques for successfully challenging bailiff actions, based on years of hands-on practice and understanding of enforcement procedures.
Flexible Pricing Policy
Our pricing is clear and adaptable. We offer different options based on your needs and budget, ensuring you get professional help without financial stress.
Honest Case Evaluation
Before taking your case, we assess its chances realistically and explain everything clearly. You won’t get false hopes—only straightforward legal advice based on experience.
We Speak Your Language
We explain legal terms in simple, clear language, making sure you fully understand your rights, options, and the next steps in the legal process.
Extensive Experience
Our team has years of experience in enforcement-related legal matters, representing both creditors and debtors, and resolving even the most complex and challenging cases efficiently.
Contact us
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LawyerLegal assistance is provided by advocate Anton Grinewich, Specialized Legal Bar No. 2 in Minsk.
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E-mail
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AddressOffice: 1 Krasnaya str., Minsk, Republic of Belarus Postal address: 1 Krasnaya str., Minsk, Republic of Belarus
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Working hoursMonday-Friday 9:00-19:00
