If the writ says bob but my real name is Robert, is the writ still valid?

A writ of control must specify a debtor that is a valid legal entity. It can only be enforced against the entity named on the writ.^[1]

A legal entity is a person or a corporate body such as a limited company.

If the writ of control is enforced against another entity not named on the enforcement power, that person or company can apply for a third-party claim.^[2]

The intended debtor can apply for damages for enforcement action taken under the writ because it is a "defective instrument".^[3]

Some bailiff companies may argue there is a "slip rule" enabling them to apply to amend the name of the person or the company named on the writ. ^[4][5]

On application to make the amendment, it is the court's discretion the extent of the slip (error in the debtor's name) and whether to grant the amendment to be made.

For example, the court could hold out that the debtor Bob was intended to mean Robert and amend the writ of control.

The court might hold out that Bob could mean anyone whose name is Bob, which does not identify any particular debtor and dismiss the application to amend the writ of control.

^{[1] Paragraph 7.1 of Schedule 12 to the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007

[2] See: Bailiffs took your goods for someone else's debt.

[3] Paragraph 66 of Schedule 12 to the Tribunals, Courts and Enforcement Act 2007
[4] Civil Procedure Rule 40.12

[5] Practice Direction 40B.4.1 to 4.5}