Form D50A UK: Acknowledgement of Service Guide

What this document is

Form D50A is the official acknowledgement of service used in property disputes between spouses or civil partners where the proceedings are brought under specific historic statutes. Section 17 of the Married Women's Property Act 1882 gives either spouse a route to ask the court to decide questions about the ownership or possession of property.

Section 66 of the Civil Partnership Act 2004 mirrors that mechanism for civil partners. When one party issues such an application, the court serves the respondent with the application, any supporting statement, and Form D50A. By completing and returning the form, the respondent confirms receipt, sets out their contact details, states whether they are correctly named, and indicates whether they intend to oppose the application.

Although the form itself is short, it is procedurally significant: failure to return it on time can allow the applicant to proceed without the respondent's input, which may affect the eventual outcome.

How to use this document

1. Check you have the full pack of documents. When Form D50A arrives, it should come with the applicant's completed application and a statement in support explaining the background and what they are asking the court to decide. Read everything before you start filling anything in, so you understand exactly what is being claimed against you.
2. Complete the form in black ink. The court requires black ink because forms are often scanned and photocopied as part of the file. Fill in your full name, the applicant's name, the case number shown on the paperwork, the date the documents reached you, and an address where further correspondence can be sent to you safely.
3. Answer the substantive questions carefully. You will be asked to confirm whether you received the application and statement, whether you are the person named as respondent, and whether you intend to oppose what is being asked for. Your answers here set the procedural direction, so think before you tick.
4. Return the form within 14 days of service. The acknowledgement must be sent back to the court within fourteen days of the day you were served. Keep a copy for your own records, and if you are sending by post consider using a method that gives you proof of delivery in case the timing is later questioned.
5. Plan your next move. If you have ticked that you intend to oppose the application, you will usually need to file a separate statement in answer setting out your position and evidence. Diary the deadlines carefully and consider getting guidance on how to frame your response before you draft it.

Common questions