Need a Demand Letter? Why Having an Attorney Draft It Can Matter

You’re owed money. Someone damaged your property. A business failed to provide something you paid for. Or another person or company has violated an agreement.

You know you need to say something—but you're not sure exactly what to say or how to say it.

That’s where a demand letter can be useful.

A demand letter is a formal written communication that explains a dispute, identifies what you are asking the other party to do, and gives them an opportunity to resolve the matter before you consider taking further action.

Why Not Just Write One Yourself?

You can certainly write your own demand letter. The problem is that it can be difficult to know what information should be included, what should be left out, and how strongly the letter should be written.

A letter that is too informal may not communicate the seriousness of the situation. On the other hand, making unnecessary threats or including statements that aren't supported by the facts can potentially make the situation worse.

An attorney can help you organize the relevant facts and present your position in a clear, professional manner.

What Can an Attorney Help Include?

Depending on your situation, a demand letter may address things such as:

• What happened and when it happened
• The agreement, transaction, or events involved
• Your legal or contractual position
• The damages or losses you are claiming
• What you are asking the other party to do
• A reasonable deadline for responding
• What you may consider doing if the matter isn't resolved

The goal isn't simply to make the letter sound “legal.” The goal is to communicate your position clearly and professionally.

A Demand Letter Doesn't Guarantee a Resolution

It's important to understand that sending a demand letter doesn't guarantee that the other party will agree to your demands or that your dispute will be resolved.

However, in some situations, a well-prepared letter can give the other party an opportunity to resolve a problem before additional time and expense are involved.

If you're considering sending a demand letter and aren't sure how to approach it, having an attorney draft the document may be a worthwhile first step.

LAWtica Can Help

LAWtica's Document Drafting service connects you with an independent, licensed attorney who can prepare a legal document based on the information and instructions you provide.

You don't have to figure out the wording on your own.

Whether you need a demand letter or another type of legal document, LAWtica can help you connect with an attorney online at a straightforward, upfront price.

Need a document drafted? Get started at LAWtica.com.