An unpaid invoice requires a properly evidenced claim. Before choosing a course of action, bring together the order, evidence of performance, the amounts due and the reasons given by the customer.
Documents establishing the debt
TheArticle 1353 of the French Civil Code places the burden of proving an obligation on the party seeking its performance. Gather the documents establishing both its existence and its amount.
- The contract, accepted quotation, order and applicable terms and conditions.
- Delivery notes, evidence of performance and any reservations.
- The invoice, due date, partial payments and correspondence about payment.
An approach tailored to the dispute
Set out the amounts and dates in a table. A disputed service, an asserted right of set-off and a debtor’s financial difficulties require different responses. The choice between a reminder, formal demand, negotiation and proceedings depends on the evidence, time limits and commercial objective.
Where non-payment accompanies the end of a business relationship, distinguish the payment claim from a possible claim for abrupt termination of an established commercial relationship.
Preparing the initial discussion
State the unpaid amount, due date and known grounds for dispute. The firm examines the commitments and evidence to identify with you the appropriate steps in commercial law.
Contact the firm to discuss a similar matter and the steps appropriate to your situation.