Bankruptcy

If the person or company you have the dispute with is a 'man of straw', ie, of no means, then you can still sue, but if the defendant can't pay, you won't get your money and you'll have wasted your effort, particularly if you've sent the bailiffs in, all of which costs you money. If the debtor has gone bankrupt, find out the name of the firm acting for the liquidation of the business, and lodge your interest with them. You may not get all your money back but you should get an equal share of any proceeds with all the other claimants.