HMRC statutory demands
Review the demand, consider the correct procedure and any grounds to challenge it, and advise on applicable deadlines.
Home / Our Services
Specialist insolvency litigation · England and Wales
Our legal services for HMRC petitions
Facing an HMRC statutory demand, bankruptcy petition or winding-up petition? Understand the legal options available and how a solicitor may assist you at each stage.
Independent specialist information · Urgent assistance 9am–9pm
Focused advice and representation
How can a solicitor help?
HMRC enforcement can involve different legal processes for individuals and companies. The appropriate response depends on the nature of the debt, the documents served, the procedural stage and whether there are proper grounds to challenge the proceedings.
Our approach is to review the evidence, identify urgent deadlines and explain the realistic options: challenging a demand, defending a petition, seeking appropriate court relief or negotiating a resolution.
Legal advice should be obtained promptly. Negotiations with HMRC do not automatically suspend court proceedings.
For individuals
Personal bankruptcy and statutory demands
Assistance with HMRC demands and bankruptcy proceedings, including assessing the underlying debt and preparing a response where grounds exist.
Defending bankruptcy petitions
Review the petition and supporting evidence, consider objections, prepare evidence and seek appropriate court orders.
HMRC payment and settlement discussions
Consider the liability, affordability and whether a practical resolution may be pursued alongside procedural steps.
For companies and directors
Corporate winding-up and urgent court applications
Targeted assistance where HMRC threatens or presents a winding-up petition against a company.
HMRC winding-up petitions
Assess grounds to oppose proceedings, prepare evidence, consider settlement and represent the company at hearings.
Restrain presentation or advertisement
Where legally justified, seek urgent relief to restrain presentation or advertisement of a petition.
Validation orders and hearings
Consider validation orders, adjournments and other court applications appropriate to the facts and stage of proceedings.
Experience and professional standing
Specialist Legal Expertise
Gurvir Birang is a solicitor with over 25 years’ experience in litigation, insolvency and restructuring matters. He has been recognised by Chambers & Partners as a Leading Individual in Restructuring and Insolvency.
Gurvir advises individuals, company directors and businesses facing HMRC enforcement action, bankruptcy petitions, winding-up petitions and related insolvency proceedings.
Have you received a petition or court hearing notice?
Speak to a solicitor →Do not assume HMRC negotiations will postpone the hearing. Obtain advice on the timetable now.
Working with us
Four practical steps
Review
Examine the papers, alleged debt, hearing date and enforcement history.
Assess
Identify procedural options, evidence and any grounds to challenge the proceedings.
Act
Take appropriate steps, including correspondence, negotiation or an urgent court application.
Represent
Prepare for hearings and seek an appropriate resolution, subject to the merits and instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about our services
Can an HMRC winding-up petition be stopped?
In suitable cases a petition may be opposed, withdrawn, dismissed, adjourned or resolved through an agreed arrangement. The available options depend on the debt, evidence and stage of proceedings.
Can I challenge an HMRC statutory demand?
Potentially, depending on the applicable procedure and grounds. Individuals should seek advice promptly because short statutory deadlines may apply. A company demand and an individual's demand are not dealt with in exactly the same way.
Can HMRC make me personally bankrupt?
HMRC may petition for an individual's bankruptcy where the statutory requirements are met. A solicitor can review the debt and process and advise on any available grounds of opposition.
Can a solicitor stop advertisement of a winding-up petition?
In appropriate circumstances, an urgent application may be available to restrain advertisement. Such relief is not automatic and requires proper legal grounds.
Can HMRC agree a payment arrangement?
HMRC may consider a Time to Pay proposal, but acceptance is discretionary and negotiations do not themselves suspend a petition or court timetable.
Practical guidance
Explore the next steps
England and Wales. General information only; seek legal advice on your circumstances.
Urgent insolvency & petition advice
Find out what can be done in your case.
Speak to a solicitor about the papers served, the debt and any upcoming court deadlines.