These smash-and-grab bailiffs who make a mockery of justice when they come knocking at the door

1st December 2006
By Paul Nicolson

The centuries-old common law preventing forced entry by bailiffs enforcing fines was abolished on in July 2004 by Standing Committee E considering a Department for Constitutional Affairs (DCA) amendment to the Home Office Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Bill. There was no mention of the common law being abolished throughout the passage of this Bill through parliament; it was ironic — it is often vulnerable women and children who are at home when the intimidating bailiff forces e…