Court process

Can an issue proceed through the courts if they have no proof that the defendant has ever received any notification
ie letters sent by *“recommandé avec accusé de réception”.

I know that in the country I come from they could not proceed to any other stage without this proof.

It relates to a Direct Debt (meant to be for a year) which I stopped because I was not receiving any replies or support after a certain date and refused to pay money for nothing. I see that he has reviews from a couple of others who had the same issue. I had to seek advice from others whilst still paying him so I stopped.
Many Thanks for any replies.