Inddrivelse

Inddrivelse is a term used in Danish law for the process of enforcing payment of debts owed to public authorities, municipalities, and private creditors. It encompasses the legal procedures used to obtain payment when ordinary demands have not been met.

Scope: In practice, inddrivelse covers tax debts, social contributions, fines, and other public charges, as well as private claims pursued through enforcement. The aim is to secure payment, including when the debtor is reluctant or unable to pay.

Procedures: The process often begins with notices and reminders. If payment fails to materialize, enforcement may be initiated through the courts or enforcement authorities. Tools include distraint of income (udlæg i løn) or bank accounts, attachment and seizure of movable property, and, for real estate, forced sale (tvangsauktion). Payment plans and settlements may be offered to avoid or end enforcement.

Legal framework: Inddrivelse is regulated by Danish legislation on debt collection, including acts governing the inddrivelse of public debt, and is carried out by the enforcement court (fogedretten) and by relevant public authorities such as tax agencies. Private creditors may pursue enforcement via civil proceedings or licensed collection agencies.

Terminology and context: The term is primarily used within Danish administrative and civil law and has specific procedural nuances depending on whether the debt is public or private.