Bailiffs and assistant bailiffs must follow the rules laid out in the Bailiffs Act and its regulations, as well as in other applicable laws. This includes the obligation to act responsibly.

The Ministry of Public and Business Service Delivery and Procurement (MPBSDP or the ministry) is responsible for administering the Bailiffs Act. The Registrar of Bailiffs can take action against a bailiff or assistant bailiff if there is reason to believe they may be violating the act. In those cases, the Registrar of Bailiffs may propose to:

  • revoke a bailiff’s appointment
  • suspend or revoke an assistant bailiff’s registration
  • refuse to renew an assistant bailiff’s registration
  • place terms and conditions on a bailiff’s appointment or assistant bailiff’s registration

The Registrar’s proposed action does not take place right away. Once the Registrar sends notice to the bailiff or assistant bailiff, the bailiff or assistant bailiff has the opportunity to appeal to the Licence Appeal Tribunal and have the decision of the Tribunal reviewed by the courts.  Learn more about compliance and enforcement.