Litigation & Disputes

Demand Letter

Also called: Letter Before Action, Cease and Desist

A formal written notice setting out a claim and what is required to resolve it before litigation.

A demand letter typically states the facts, the legal basis for the claim, what is sought, and a deadline. It often resolves matters without a lawsuit and creates a documented record if one follows.

Why it matters: a demand letter is a legal communication that can be produced in court later. Overstating a claim in one can weaken your position.

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Editorial status: Lawkin Editorial — pending independent legal review.

Demand Letter — Canadian legal glossary | Lawkin — Lawkin