bailiffs forced entry

[gravelaxe]

I know bailiffs with a warrant may climb a wall to enter a garden but Is it legal for them to use force to do so . Forcing of gates or removing them. What are the legal implications

[hc4361]

It depends what sort of bailiff it is. Some bailiffs can force entry.
"Can a bailiff force his/her way into my house?
Most bailiffs do not have the right to force their way into your home to seize your goods. The only exception is that bailiffs from the Collector of Taxes (Inland Revenue) can get a warrant to force entry, but this is very rare.
All other bailiffs have a right of peaceful entry only. This means that they cannot use force to enter your home, for example, by breaking a window or a door. However, they can enter your property through an open door or window (front and back) and can climb over fences and gates, but cannot break them down."
http://www.insolvencyhelpline.co.uk/debt_basic s/bailiff-guide.php#bg7

If bailiffs have damaged your property, report them to the police for criminal damage.

[themas]

I think the quote is referring to civil debts.

There was a change in the law about 2 or 3 years ago in relation to criminal debts - eg fines imposed by Magistrates Courts. Bailiffs pursuing these debts can now used force to obtain entry to the property.