Key Takeaways
- A Rule 22 judgment lets you request a quick default judgment from the employment tribunal if the respondent fails to respond, accelerating recovery and minimising hassle.
- Completing the correct court or tribunal forms for your application-for-rule-22-judgment is vital to avoid costly delays, mistakes, or rejection.
- Keeping strict track of deadlines and submitting evidence—such as your original claim and notice to the respondent—greatly increases your chance of success.
- Failing to follow due process, like providing proper notice or misjudging deadlines, can result in your judgment being challenged or overturned.
- Both businesses and individuals can use Rule 22 default judgments to speed up debt recovery and enforce tribunal awards without drawn-out hearings.
- Understanding your enforcement options after winning—like High Court enforcement, charging orders, or payment plans—helps you actually recover what you’re owed.
- Our Go-Legal AI platform provides step-by-step guidance, pre-filled templates, and downloadable checklists, so your application-for-rule-22-judgment is fast, accurate, and stress-free.
- Go-Legal AI is rated Excellent on Trustpilot with over 170 five-star user reviews.
- Overlooking essential details, like service deadlines or required forms, can cost your chance at a Rule 22 judgment, risking extra fees or a failed claim.
- Relying on Go-Legal AI’s lawyer-reviewed templates and technology ensures your Rule 22 application is thorough and submissions meet all tribunal requirements, minimising risk.
How to Make an Application-for-Rule-22-Judgment in the UK
If you’ve been left chasing unpaid invoices, facing silence after submitting an employment claim, or simply received no reply to your tribunal application, you are not alone. Many UK business owners and individuals find proceedings grind to a halt because the other side doesn’t respond. The key to unlocking a quick resolution? Knowing how (and when) to start an application-for-rule-22-judgment.
A Rule 22 judgment application allows you to move your case forward when the respondent fails to engage. When you use the correct tribunal forms and supporting documents, you can secure a default judgment in your favour—without the delay and cost of a full hearing. Get it wrong and you risk rejected paperwork, delays, or even losing the right to recover what you’re owed.
This no-nonsense guide explains exactly how Rule 22 default judgments work in employment tribunals, which paperwork to include, how to avoid common mistakes, and practical tips for enforcement. With Go-Legal AI, you can download templates and use our smart tools to build your application-for-rule-22-judgment effortlessly and with confidence.
What is an Application-for-Rule-22-Judgment in the UK?
An application-for-rule-22-judgment is a legal step that empowers claimants—usually in employment tribunal proceedings—to quickly obtain a judgment where the opposing party (the respondent) fails to respond, defend, or comply with tribunal directions.
Under Rule 22 of the Employment Tribunals Rules of Procedure (England & Wales), if a respondent does not file a valid response (such as the ET3 form) within 28 days of being served, or ignores further tribunal instructions, you can apply for a default judgment. The tribunal can then decide the case to your advantage without a full hearing.
This process prevents claims from stalling and reduces the risk of ongoing financial loss or uncertainty.
When Should You Apply for a Rule 22 Judgment? (Eligibility and Timelines)
To use Rule 22, you need to make sure:
- The respondent hasn’t filed their ET3 Response (in employment cases) within 28 days of receiving the claim.
- The response provided is incomplete or fails to address the tribunal’s instructions.
- The respondent has ignored subsequent directions despite being given extra time to reply.
It’s your responsibility to confirm these conditions before starting your application.
What Forms and Documents Do You Need for a Rule 22 Default Judgment?
Proper paperwork is essential for your application-for-rule-22-judgment. Missing documents or incorrect forms are the main reason claims get held up or rejected.
You’ll need:
- A completed Rule 22 Default Judgment Application Form (or correct online equivalent).
- Proof of service—a copy of the tribunal’s notice showing the respondent was properly informed.
- The original claim form (e.g., ET1 in employment matters).
- All correspondence evidencing the respondent’s non-compliance, such as letters or emails from the tribunal.
- Supporting evidence justifying your requested award: contracts, invoices, payslips, timesheets, or communications.
| Document/Form | Purpose | Why It’s Critical |
|---|---|---|
| Application Form | Asks the tribunal to issue default judgment | Kicks off the process—required for consideration |
| Proof of Service | Shows respondent received notice | Tribunal can’t proceed unless service is proven |
| Original Claim (ET1) | Explains what you are claiming and why | Tribunal only reviews claims properly submitted |
| Evidence & Correspondence | Justifies your entitlement; proves non-compliance | Backs up your request for damages/compensation |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for a Rule 22 Judgment in the UK
Here’s a practical walkthrough of the entire process:
- Check Eligibility: Confirm the respondent’s deadline to file a response has passed and they haven’t complied.
- Collect Documentation: Gather your claim form, proof of service, evidence of any non-compliance, and all supporting materials.
- Access the Correct Form: Download the tribunal-approved application for default judgment or use the online version.
- Detail Your Claim: Clearly outline the facts, your desired outcome, and refer to supporting documents (be thorough).
- Submit the Application: Attach everything and file your bundle with the relevant tribunal office—online preferred where available.
- Retain Copies: Keep digital or physical copies of all submissions, including the exact date sent.
- Wait for Decision: If the tribunal is satisfied, you’ll usually receive a written default judgment. A hearing is rare unless issues arise.
⚡ Get legal tasks done quickly
Create documents, follow step-by-step guides, and get instant support — all in one simple platform.
🧠 AI legal copilot
📄 5000+ templates
🔒 GDPR-compliant & secure
🏅 Backed by Innovate UK & Oxford
Key Clauses and Essential Checklist for a Strong Rule 22 Application
Tribunals require your Rule 22 application to be detailed and properly evidenced. Skimping on details is the quickest way to lose your claim or delay judgment.
| Component | What It Does | Why It’s Crucial |
|---|---|---|
| Proof of Service | Shows tribunal the respondent was notified | Tribunal can’t rule unless party was informed |
| Statement of Non-Response | Explains respondent’s failure to reply | Satisfies Rule 22 requirement |
| Complete Details of Claim | Sets out facts, sums, and legal grounds | Decision will be based on what you provide |
| Quantified Damages | Lists exact compensation with supporting evidence | Tribunal can only award what’s properly claimed |
| Statement of Truth | Certifies facts as accurate (“I believe the facts…”) | Required for legal validity |
Checklist:
- Tribunal-approved form
- Proof respondent received the claim
- Clear statement of non-response
- Full details of your case and requested award
- Detailed breakdown of claimed sums, with proof
Respondent Options: Defending or Objecting to a Rule 22 Judgment
If you are a respondent who has received notice of a Rule 22 default judgment, you still have options—provided you act quickly:
- Apply to Set Aside: Submit a written request to the tribunal to cancel the judgment, explaining why you missed the deadline (e.g., illness, postal delay, administrative error).
- Provide Evidence: Outline and supply supporting documents to demonstrate why your late response should be considered or why the judgment is unjust.
- Request a Short Hearing: If the matter is more complex, request that the tribunal list a brief hearing to present your arguments.
What Happens After a Rule 22 Judgment? (Enforcement and Collection)
Winning a Rule 22 default judgment is only half the battle. To convert your order into actual payment, you need to know the best enforcement methods.
Typical tribunal orders include:
- An award of compensation (for unfair dismissal, breach of contract, unpaid wages, etc.)
- Set deadlines for payment (usually 14 or 28 days)
If payment is not made, several enforcement options are available:
| Enforcement Option | What It Enables | Typical Timeframe | Best Use Case |
|---|---|---|---|
| County Court Bailiff | Seizes assets to cover what’s owed | 1–3 months | Most cash awards |
| High Court Enforcement Officer | Fast-track for debts over £600 | Days–weeks | High-value or urgent claims |
| Attachment of Earnings Order | Pays from respondent’s wages directly | 1–3 months | Employed respondents |
| Charging Order on Property | Secures debt against respondent’s assets | 1–2 months | Where property exists |
Common Mistakes in Rule 22 Judgment Applications and How to Avoid Them
Avoid these pitfalls to give your Rule 22 application the best possible chance:
- Applying Too Early: Only submit once the respondent’s full deadline has expired.
- Missing Documents: Always attach proof of service and a clear statement of non-response.
- Unclear Claims: Applications lacking precise details of sums owed or how they’re calculated are frequently rejected.
- Failure to Enforce: Many claimants win by default but fail to enforce—don’t let your award go uncollected.
- Estimating Without Evidence: Tribunals require documentation, not guesses.
Rule 22 Judgment vs. Statement of Case: What’s the Difference?
It’s critical to distinguish between a Rule 22 judgment and a Statement of Case, as mixing them up can cause major setbacks.
| Feature | Rule 22 Judgment | Statement of Case |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Tribunal decision issued due to no response | Written summary of your legal claim |
| When Used | After respondent fails to reply by the deadline | At the start of any proceedings |
| Outcome | Decides the case without a hearing | Sets the agenda for tribunal/court |
| Respondent Role | No participation unless judgment set aside | Full participation |
| Documentation | Application, evidence, proof of service | Full particulars of claim and supporting docs |
How Go-Legal AI Makes Rule 22 Applications Effortless
Go-Legal AI revolutionises the Rule 22 application process. Our platform takes away the stress, time-wasting, and uncertainty, providing:
- Automated Templates: Generate a complete, tribunal-ready Rule 22 application in minutes.
- Dynamic Checklists: Quickly see what’s missing, ensuring no key documents or details are left out.
- AI-Powered Review: Instantly scan your draft for errors, risks, or missing legal essentials before you submit.
- Step-by-Step Instructions: Tailored to your case, deadline, and tribunal—no guesswork, minimal risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get a Rule 22 judgment?
Most Rule 22 applications are decided within 2 to 8 weeks, depending on tribunal workload and the completeness of your documents.
What if the respondent files a late response?
If the respondent applies to set aside your Rule 22 judgment with a good explanation (like illness or error), the tribunal may give them a second chance—but only if you’re notified first.
Can I use Rule 22 to recover unpaid invoices as a business?
Yes, if your claim falls within a tribunal’s scope (such as employment/contractual disputes) and the respondent ignores proceedings, Rule 22 is a powerful and fast way to collect debts.
Do I need to attend a hearing for my Rule 22 judgment?
Hearings are rare—most applications are decided based on paperwork unless there’s a dispute over service or enforceability.
Can Rule 22 judgments be set aside or appealed?
Yes. Respondents can apply to set aside a default judgment if they have a valid excuse and act promptly. Tribunal appeals are possible in cases of legal error.
What evidence should I include?
Always file your original claim, proof of service, evidence of missed deadlines, and all supporting documentation for your claimed sums.
Are Rule 22 judgments immediately enforceable?
Usually, yes—as soon as the written order is issued, you can begin enforcement unless it’s set aside.
Can I submit my Rule 22 application online?
Most employment tribunals support digital filing. Our platform gives you digital-ready templates for immediate use.
Does Rule 22 apply outside employment tribunals?
Rule 22 itself is specific to employment tribunals. County courts have similar default judgment processes but different forms and requirements.
Do I need a solicitor to use Rule 22?
No solicitor is required. A clear, lawyer-reviewed template, such as ours, is perfectly acceptable and saves you hundreds in fees.
Create Your Application-for-Rule-22-Judgment with Go-Legal AI
Don’t let incomplete forms, missed deadlines, or paperwork errors derail your claim. With Go-Legal AI, you can:
- Build a comprehensive Rule 22 judgment application in minutes, with interactive prompts at every step.
- Access expert-reviewed, always-updated templates that cover all legal bases required by England & Wales employment tribunals.
- Instantly review your draft for missing details, errors, or opportunities to maximise your claim.
- Generate submission-ready files or download for manual filing, ready to enforce at the tribunal.
Ready to avoid costly delays and achieve a risk-proof application-for-rule-22-judgment? Join us and discover how easy legal can be.
Generate Your Application-for-Rule-22-Judgment Effortlessly
Successfully navigating the Rule 22 default judgment process can lead to swift, enforceable outcomes—protecting your business, time, and cash flow. Missing steps, guessing at requirements, or using unvetted templates exposes you to avoidable risk, rejection, and wasted effort.
With Go-Legal AI, you gain control: our platform leads you through every legal and practical requirement, validates your paperwork live, and produces tribunal-ready, lawyer-reviewed forms at a fraction of the cost and hassle of traditional providers.
Take charge of your claim now. Create an application-for-rule-22-judgment using our intelligent tools, and enjoy peace of mind knowing every detail is expertly handled.
Ready to unlock rapid, reliable results? Start your journey with Go-Legal AI’s free trial and secure your Rule 22 default judgment, fast.
Access to legal templates (3 downloads/month)
