- May 10, 2026
- Posted by: АРОУ
- Category: Publications
Seizure of property is one of the most effective ways to protect a creditor’s interests and ensure the actual enforcement of a court decision.
If a debtor avoids repayment, attempts to withdraw assets, or tries to hide property, it is important to act quickly.
In this publication, we explain how to impose a seizure on a debtor’s property within enforcement proceedings, who may initiate such a procedure, and what should be considered to achieve an effective result.
What Is Property Seizure in Enforcement Proceedings?
Property seizure is a restriction imposed on a debtor’s right to dispose of property by a state or private enforcement officer in accordance with the Law of Ukraine “On Enforcement Proceedings.”
Property seizure allows creditors to:
- ensure actual enforcement of a court decision;
- prevent disposal or concealment of assets;
- create legal pressure on the debtor to repay the debt.
Who May Initiate Property Seizure?
Creditor
The creditor may submit a written application to the enforcement officer requesting the seizure of the debtor’s property.
Enforcement Officer
A state or private enforcement officer may independently initiate property seizure if necessary for enforcement of the court decision.
What Property May Be Seized?
Seizure may apply to:
- real estate;
- vehicles;
- funds in bank accounts;
- valuable movable property;
- corporate rights and shares in authorized capital;
- other debtor assets.
At the same time, the law provides a list of assets that cannot be seized, including certain social payments and property protected by law.
How to Initiate Property Seizure
Step 1. Opening Enforcement Proceedings
First, it is necessary to obtain the enforcement document and submit it to a state or private enforcement officer.
Step 2. Filing an Application for Property Seizure
The creditor should preferably submit a separate written application requesting the seizure of the debtor’s assets.
The application should include information about:
- known debtor assets;
- bank accounts;
- real estate;
- vehicles;
- corporate rights;
- any other information that may help identify the debtor’s assets faster.
Step 3. Issuance of a Seizure Order
The enforcement officer issues an order imposing seizure on the debtor’s property or funds.
Afterward, information about the seizure is forwarded to:
- state registers;
- banks;
- relevant registration authorities.
What Should Be Considered?
Provide Maximum Information About the Debtor
The more information the enforcement officer has regarding the debtor’s assets, the higher the chances of quickly securing property.
Monitor the Actions of the Enforcement Officer
It is important to regularly obtain updates regarding enforcement proceedings and monitor which measures have been taken.
Challenge Inaction if Necessary
If the enforcement officer fails to take proper action, the creditor may file a complaint or apply to the court.
Court-Ordered Seizure as a Method of Securing a Claim
If there is a risk that the debtor may dispose of property before a court decision is obtained, it is possible to apply to the court for interim measures securing the claim.
The court may impose a seizure on property even before the final resolution of the case.
This is especially important in situations involving:
- asset withdrawal risks;
- attempts to transfer ownership of property;
- corporate conflicts;
- large debt amounts.
Why Is Legal Assistance Important?
An attorney can help:
- properly prepare documents;
- collect information about the debtor’s assets;
- communicate with enforcement officers;
- monitor enforcement proceedings;
- challenge unlawful actions or inaction;
- increase the likelihood of successful debt recovery.
Conclusion
Seizure of a debtor’s property is an effective tool for ensuring enforcement of a court decision.
To achieve a successful result, it is important to act promptly, properly prepare documents, and closely monitor enforcement proceedings at every stage.
The Ukrainian Bar and Realtor Association provides comprehensive support in enforcement proceedings, assists with initiating property seizures, and protects creditors’ interests until the full enforcement of court decisions.
