Recovery & commercial
Cross-border debt recovery in Luxembourg
To recover a claim against a debtor established in another EU State, Luxembourg has efficient European instruments at its disposal: the European payment order (Reg. 1896/2006), the European enforcement order, the European Account Preservation Order (EAPO) and the recognition of judgments under Brussels I bis. The firm selects the fastest route.
A cross-border claim is not recovered like a domestic one: the right tool depends on the amount, on whether the claim is disputed and on the location of the debtor and of their assets.
Cerno Law Firm selects the appropriate instrument and coordinates enforcement in the debtor's country, for fast recovery at the best cost.
The need
Your debtor is abroad and your in-house reminders are getting nowhere.
Starting proceedings in the wrong framework wastes time and money.
The risk
A claim that becomes time-barred, assets moved away, enforcement blocked for lack of a recognised title.
The longer you wait, the more complicated cross-border recovery becomes.
How we help
Formal notice, then a European payment order or a writ of summons, a European enforcement order and an EAPO to freeze the accounts.
Coordination of enforcement with local correspondents.
Practice areas
When to call on the firm
- Recover an unpaid invoice within the EU.
- Freeze a debtor's accounts (EAPO) before they organise their own insolvency.
- Have a Luxembourg judgment recognised and enforced abroad.
- Recover an undisputed B2B claim through a European payment order.
Method
Our engagement process
- 1
Information intake
You describe your need via a structured form or an initial call. Our digital tools serve only to organise this information and save time.
- 2
Lawyer qualification
Maître Maglo reviews your situation, identifies the legal issues and confirms the feasibility and exact scope of the engagement.
- 3
Transparent quote
You receive a clear fee proposal, a fixed fee or a range, before any engagement. Nothing is billed without your approval.
- 4
Legal work
The firm drafts, negotiates or litigates as required. Every deliverable is designed and approved by a lawyer admitted to the Luxembourg Bar.
- 5
Tracking and delivery
You follow your matter transparently and receive your finalised documents with the explanations you need.
Documents required
- • Invoices, contract and general terms and conditions
- • Reminders already sent
- • Contact details and location of the debtor
Deliverables
- • Cross-border recovery strategy
- • Suitable European procedure
- • Enforcement monitoring
Indicative timing
An uncontested European payment order can be obtained within a few weeks; the EAPO makes it possible to act urgently on the accounts.
Fees proportionate to the stakes
Fixed fee per stage, announced in advance; external costs are separate.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
What is the European payment order?
A simplified procedure (Regulation 1896/2006) that allows you to obtain quickly an enforceable title for an uncontested pecuniary claim in a cross-border EU dispute.
Can a debtor's accounts abroad be frozen?
Yes, through the European Account Preservation Order (EAPO), which makes it possible to freeze bank accounts in other Member States before or during proceedings.
Is a Luxembourg judgment enforceable across the EU?
Yes. The Brussels I bis Regulation ensures the recognition and enforcement of civil and commercial decisions between Member States, without exequatur.
Let’s talk about your matter
Describe your situation: you receive an initial analysis and a transparent quote, with no obligation. One dedicated lawyer, from start to finish.