The Alberta Legislature Building in Edmonton lit up at dusk

Debt Collection

Debt Collection Lawyers in Edmonton

Unpaid invoices and loans hurt cash flow. We help businesses and individuals recover what they're owed — from a demand letter to judgment and enforcement.

Book a free consultation 780-229-4559

Our debt collection lawyers in Edmonton help recover unpaid invoices, loans and other debts through demand letters, claims in the Alberta Court of Justice and Court of King's Bench, and enforcement under Alberta's Civil Enforcement Act.

What we handle

Demand letters
Civil claims up to $100,000
Default judgments
Writs of enforcement
Garnishment
Defending collection claims

Step 1: Demand letter

A lawyer's demand letter setting out the amount owing, the legal basis and a deadline often resolves the debt without court.

Step 2: Filing a claim

Debts up to $100,000 can be pursued in the Alberta Court of Justice (Civil), which is simpler and faster than the Court of King's Bench. If the debtor doesn't respond within the deadline, you may be able to obtain judgment without a trial.

Step 3: Enforcing your judgment

A judgment is only valuable if you can collect it. Under Alberta's Civil Enforcement Act, enforcement tools include:

Registering a writ of enforcement at the Personal Property Registry and against land
Garnishing wages or bank accounts
Seizing and selling assets through a civil enforcement agency
Examining the debtor about their assets under oath

Act before the deadline

Most debt claims in Alberta must be started within two years of the default. Don't let an unpaid account sit too long.

Being pursued for a debt?

If you've been served with a claim, you have strict deadlines to respond. We can review whether the debt is owed, whether the claim is out of time, and whether a settlement or payment plan makes sense.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Have a question that isn't answered here? Call 780-229-4559 or see all FAQs.

How do I collect an unpaid invoice in Alberta?

Start with a formal demand. If that doesn't work, file a claim — up to $100,000 in the Alberta Court of Justice — obtain judgment, and enforce it through tools like garnishment and writs of enforcement.

How long do I have to collect a debt in Alberta?

Generally two years from the default. Once you have a judgment, it can be enforced for years and renewed.

Can I recover interest and legal costs?

Often. Contractual or statutory interest may be recoverable, and courts usually award the successful party a portion of their legal costs.

What if the debtor has no money?

We can examine the debtor's assets and register your judgment so you're paid if assets become available. We'll give you a realistic view before you spend money on enforcement.