Debt recovery should follow the legal nature of the obligation and the available evidence. A signed contract is useful, but correspondence, payment records, invoices, receipts and performance documents can also determine whether a claim is viable and how it should be presented.
Start with the obligation
Russian civil law requires obligations to be performed properly under the agreement and applicable law. A party cannot generally unilaterally refuse performance or change the terms unless the law or the contract allows it.
Build the evidence file
- the contract, receipt, invoice or other source of the debt;
- proof that money, goods, work or services were transferred or performed;
- the agreed due date and payment history;
- messages and demand letters;
- a clear calculation of the principal and any accessory claims.
Choose the recovery route
Some documentary monetary claims may qualify for order proceedings, while a disputed or fact-intensive claim ordinarily requires claim proceedings. The correct court and pre-action procedure depend on the parties, contract and type of obligation.
Do not overstate the claim
Interest, penalties, damages and costs are not automatic additions. Each must have a contractual or statutory basis and be calculated for the relevant period. A demand letter should state the obligation, amount, payment deadline and supporting documents clearly.
Legal framework
The general starting points include Articles 309 and 310 of the Russian Civil Code. Specific rules vary by contract type. This material is general information and not a guarantee of recovery.