How to Set Aside a CCJ Using Form N244

Oct 20, 2025

Got a CCJ you didn’t know about? Learn how to use Form N244 to set aside a County Court Judgment and protect your credit score.

If you’ve discovered a County Court Judgment (CCJ) you knew nothing about, you’re not alone. Around 93% of CCJs are “default judgments”, issued automatically when someone doesn’t respond to a claim.

The good news?

You can often have these judgments cancelled (“set aside”) using a simple form called N244. This guide explains what “setting aside” means, when you can do it, and how to complete the form without the legal jargon.

What Does “Set Aside” Mean?

To “set aside” a CCJ means asking the court to cancel the judgment so the case can be heard again properly.

You’re not guaranteed to win the case — but it puts you back to square one so you can defend yourself, negotiate, or pay in instalments.

When Can You Apply to Set Aside a CCJ?

You can usually apply if:

  • You didn’t receive the original claim form (wrong address, moved house, etc.)

  • You have a real defence (you don’t owe the money or the amount is wrong)

  • You acted quickly after finding out about the CCJ

If you knew about the claim but ignored it, you can still ask the court to set it aside, but you’ll need to show a very good reason and may have to pay more costs.

Step‑by‑Step: How to Use Form N244

1️⃣ Download the Form

You can get Form N244 from the government’s website. It’s a PDF you can fill in on your computer or by hand.

2️⃣ Complete Your Details

Put your name, address, and the case number from the CCJ paperwork.

3️⃣ Box 3: What Order Are You Asking the Court to Make and Why?

This is where you tell the court what you want and why.

You can write something like:

“I am applying for the judgment dated [insert date] to be set aside because I did not receive the original claim form and therefore had no opportunity to defend the claim.”

If you have a valid defence (e.g. the amount is wrong, or you don’t owe the money), include that too:

“I also believe I have a reasonable defence to the claim.”

Be clear and to the point — the court needs to understand both the request and the reasoning.

4️⃣ Attach a Witness Statement

This is a short written explanation of what happened, with any evidence (tenancy agreements, bank statements, change‑of‑address confirmation).

Your witness statement should cover:

  • When and how you found out about the CCJ

  • Why you didn’t respond to the original claim (e.g. wrong address, no paperwork)

  • Any steps you took once you found out

  • A summary of your defence, if you have one

Be honest, factual, and clear

5️⃣ Pay the Court Fee

As of 2025, the fee is £313. If you’re on a low income, you may get help with fees (use form EX160).

6️⃣ Send It to the Court

Post it or email it to the County Court Business Centre (or the court listed on your paperwork). Keep a copy.

7️⃣ Attend a Short Hearing

The court may list a short hearing (sometimes by phone or video). This is your chance to explain why the CCJ should be set aside.

What Happens Next?

If the judge agrees:

  • The CCJ is cancelled

  • The case starts again (ie it goes back to the stage before the Claim Form was issued)

  • The creditor may withdraw, negotiate, or pursue it

If the judge doesn’t agree:

  • The CCJ stays

  • You may still be able to negotiate payments

How Challenge CCJ Can Help

Filling out legal forms can feel daunting. Challenge CCJ can:

  • Help you fill Form N244

  • Help you draft your witness statement

  • Bundle your evidence

  • Guide you through the process step by step

That means less stress, less jargon, and a higher chance of success.

Final Thoughts

A CCJ isn’t always the end of the road. If it was issued unfairly or without your knowledge, acting quickly with Form N244 can give you a fresh start.

Key Takeaways

  • You can ask the court to “set aside” a CCJ using Form N244.

  • You need to act promptly and explain your reasons.

  • Challenge CCJ can make the process quicker and easier.