Council Tax Issue

[CouncilTaxIssue]

Hi all, an older woman I know (in her 80's) was out of the country for longer than intended due to illness.
In that time she got the council tax bill for a property she owns, followed by reminders. She came back to find not only all that communication but also court summons.
She immediately paid the outstanding tax. Does she still have to attend court?

When she spoke to me on the phone, she was very distraught so I went to her to look over everything with her. First thing I arranged was for her to pay, but I haven't got a clue if she still needs to attend.
The property she owns is a small flat that she used to let but is in the process of selling and it is her second property. Never been in arrears before and pays by direct debit for her home in the same borough.

My experience with CT is non-existent as I rent all inclusive, so I'm not sure I am much of a help but I'm trying best I can.

Any advise? Council is Westminster, if it is of importance.

no, theres no need to attend court. it's just a formality really where all the due debts go past the judge so further action can then be taken to recover the money.
Court costs may have been incurred so just having paid the core outstanding money may mean there is still some more to pay. It's worth a call to the council tax team just to check if there is any remaining balance

She paid the whole amount on the summons including court costs. She feels so embarrassed by the whole thing.