Legal services · Czech Republic

Debt collection, litigation and enforcement in Czech Republic

Unpaid invoices, contract disputes and enforcement proceedings in Czech Republic require knowledge of Czech civil procedure, enforcement law and insolvency rules.

In brief

Czech civil procedure allows creditors to pursue unpaid claims through pre-litigation demand, court proceedings, simplified payment order proceedings (platební rozkaz), enforcement (exekuce) and insolvency (insolvenční řízení). Foreign creditors can use Czech courts. Judgments from EU member states are generally enforceable in Czechia under EU law. We represent foreign creditors and claimants throughout the process.

How we can assist

  • Pre-litigation demand letters and negotiation
  • Settlement negotiation and mediation
  • Court claims and payment order proceedings (platební rozkaz)
  • Commercial and civil litigation before Czech courts
  • Representation of foreign creditors in Czech proceedings
  • Enforcement (exekuce) proceedings after judgment
  • Recognition and enforcement of foreign judgments
  • Insolvency monitoring and creditor filings
  • Representation of creditors in insolvency proceedings
  • English-language reporting on proceedings and outcomes

Typical situations we advise on

A foreign company has unpaid invoices from a Czech business partner
A client has a contractual dispute with a Czech supplier or service provider
A creditor needs to enforce a Czech or foreign judgment against Czech assets
A company needs to file a creditor claim in Czech insolvency proceedings
A client has a consumer dispute or property dispute requiring court resolution
A foreign business needs to recover a security deposit from a Czech landlord

How it works

1

Pre-litigation assessment

We assess the claim, the debtor's situation, and the likely cost and benefit of legal action before recommending the best strategy.

2

Demand and negotiation

We send a formal demand letter in Czech, explain the consequences of non-payment, and attempt to negotiate a resolution before court.

3

Court proceedings

If negotiation fails, we initiate court proceedings, representing you in simplified payment order or full civil procedure.

4

Enforcement

After obtaining a judgment, we initiate enforcement (exekuce) proceedings and monitor recovery, reporting to you in English.

Documents you may need

Helpful to have ready

  • Contracts, invoices or agreement documents
  • Correspondence with the debtor or counterparty
  • Details of unpaid amounts and payment history
  • Any prior demands or responses
  • Court judgment or foreign decision if enforcement is sought

Frequently asked questions

How can I recover a debt from a Czech company?

The standard process in Czech Republic involves a formal demand letter, followed by court proceedings (either simplified payment order or full civil claim), and enforcement (exekuce) if a judgment is obtained. We advise on the most efficient strategy based on the amount, the debtor's situation and available assets.

Can I enforce a foreign court judgment in Czech Republic?

EU court judgments are generally enforceable in Czech Republic under EU regulations without the need for a separate recognition procedure. Judgments from non-EU countries may require a separate recognition procedure in Czech courts. We advise on the applicable rules based on the country and type of judgment.

What is a platební rozkaz in Czech Republic?

A platební rozkaz is a simplified payment order issued by a Czech court on a creditor's application. If the debtor does not object within 15 days, it becomes enforceable as a court judgment. It is a faster and cheaper alternative to a full trial for straightforward debt claims.

How long does debt recovery take in Czech Republic?

Timelines vary significantly depending on the debtor's cooperation, court workload and the complexity of the case. We do not guarantee timelines. We provide realistic assessments based on current practice and keep you updated throughout the process.

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