Recovering a debt abroad: effective tools and strategies

Recovering a debt across national borders is possible, but it requires specific expertise and the use of appropriate legal instruments. The methods and timelines vary depending on the country where the debtor is located and the relevant regulatory framework.

Debt recovery within the European Union

Within the EU, debt recovery is facilitated by harmonised procedures at Community level, which allow creditors to act quickly without having to bring separate legal proceedings in each Member State.
Among the most effective tools are:

• The European Payment Order, which allows you to obtain an enforceable title valid in all Member States; 
• Cross-border preservation of bank accounts, useful for freezing sums of money belonging to debtors in other EU countries. 

In this context, European court decisions can circulate more easily, reducing recovery times and costs.

Debt collection outside the European Union

Outside Europe, the situation becomes more complex. Each country applies its own procedural rules, and it is often necessary to obtain recognition of the Italian judgment through the exequatur procedure.
In such cases, it is essential to rely on local lawyers who are experts in commercial and international law and who are able to handle proceedings in accordance with the legislation of the country concerned.
Naturally, this entails an increase in time, costs and risks, which is why a preliminary assessment is always recommended.

The role of Studio Benigni in international debt collection

Relying on Studio Benigni means being able to count on a network of professionals specialising in international law, capable of assisting Italian companies and professionals in all phases of debt collection abroad.
The Firm provides operational support both in the pre-litigation phase, through direct contacts and negotiations, and in the litigation phase, coordinating foreign lawyers and consultants to ensure effective intervention in compliance with local regulations.

Thanks to its experience and collaboration with legal correspondents in various countries, Studio Benigni is a point of reference for Italian companies operating in international markets that wish to protect their receivables quickly, securely and professionally.