A letter of demand from an attorney is a legal letter claiming restitution of some performance based on the client’s breach of contract. An attorney issues this notice to have something paid, returned, or requested for action. It has an outline of the attorney contacts and the items that have been demanded.
It is a precursor to filing a lawsuit, but it can be a better way of resolving a dispute. They can be used to demand monetary compensation or prompt action to be taken for the issue being addressed.
Free Templates
Different Types
The following are some common demand types.
- Settlement
- Breach of contract – It is used to address the breach of contract and seek action to be taken.
- Personal property – It addresses compensation for personal property as per the binding agreement.
- Collection of debt – This is a letter requesting payment of a debt. It should contain the due date, the amount, and the reason for the debt. You can also include the terms of settlement if you wish the creditor to settle a smaller amount based on the agreement.
- Pending litigation – This is a letter that addresses pending litigation and demands legal action.
- Injury – It addresses injuries that occurred due to negligence or carelessness on the part of the other party that are eligible for compensation.
- Malpractice – It is drafted by the attorney to address any malpractice that is contrary to the normal procedures.
EXAMPLE
It can address medical malpractice in cases of unnecessary surgery that leads to further complications, which will prompt compensation due to the malpractice.
- Insurance claim – This letter was sent to the insurance company with the claimant’s details of the incident and the date. It should also contain the terms of the settlement and the deadline.
What does a Demand Letter Include?
If an issue can be resolved through negotiations, there is no need to go to court. That is why you might require this letter from your attorney explaining your side of the story, the bills you have incurred, and the settlement for which you demand compensation.
Alternatively, if you intend to file a lawsuit, most courts will require it to address your issue.
There is a need to choose words that will be documented in the letter. Here are some key considerations that should be followed:-
Give a detailed description of the demand
You need to give the details of the exact demands in the letter, which will be vital when the situation requires litigation. The courts will need to do a review of the language used and the clarity of the instructions from the defendant.
Include the facts
Your letter should be factual concerning the agreement that you made with the other party. Giving detailed facts is essential because you might want to file a lawsuit, and the letter of demand will be among the reference documents that will be used by the judge. If you have any supporting documents, like receipts or any other important document, you can attach them to make it formal and authentic.
Ask what you want
If you want to be compensated, let’s say $50000. Don’t be vague, but state the amount. The other party might as well want to negotiate if possible.
Options from the receiving party
The letter should offer alternatives to how the defendant can comply with the attorney’s needs. This entails the duration for which the receiving party can meet the demands.
The letter should be sent through certified mail
This step is important in recording the time and date that the letter was accepted. It bears the signature of the person who received the letter. Additionally, courier service can be used for serious matters.
It should give a specified dateline, which is normally 7 days. It should also include a precautionary note that failure to comply within the stipulated time might attract legal remedies.
Follow the actions
If contact was established, the attorney will negotiate with the recipient after the letter is delivered. On the other hand, the attorney may not adhere to the terms of the document if the contact was not made. In such a situation, the attorney will have to seek legal options from the court.
Template
[Attorney’s Full Name]
[Attorney’s Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
[Attorney’s Email Address]
[Attorney’s Phone Number]
[Date]
[Recipient’s Full Name or Company Name]
[Recipient’s Address]
[City, State, Zip Code]
Re: Demand for [Specify the Nature of the Demand, e.g., Payment/Settlement] Regarding [Client’s Name/Case Reference]
Dear [Recipient’s Full Name or Company Name],
I am writing to you on behalf of my client, [Client’s Full Name], regarding [brief description of the matter, e.g., “the unpaid invoices dated from January to March 2024” or “the personal injury suffered due to negligence on your premises”]. Despite previous attempts to resolve this matter amicably, it has unfortunately been necessary to proceed with formal legal representation.
Please be advised that, based on the evidence in our possession and applicable laws, it is our position that [Client’s Name] is entitled to [specifically describe the entitlement, e.g., “a total sum of $15,000 in compensation for the aforementioned invoices” or “damages in the amount of $50,000 for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering”].
We hereby demand [describe the specific action required, e.g., “immediate payment of the outstanding amount” or “a settlement proposal to cover all damages”]. Failure to comply with this demand within [time frame, typically 15-30 days] of receipt of this letter may result in further legal action, which could include, but is not limited to, civil litigation. We hope to resolve this matter efficiently and amicably, avoiding unnecessary legal expenses and court proceedings.
Please be aware that this letter serves as a formal notice and any response or lack thereof will be documented as part of our efforts to resolve this issue. We urge you to take this matter seriously and respond promptly to this demand.
We are open to discussing this matter further and welcome any proposals that may lead to an amicable resolution. Please contact me directly at [Attorney’s Phone Number] or via email at [Attorney’s Email Address] to discuss this matter further.
Your immediate attention to this matter is appreciated.
Sincerely,
[Attorney’s Signature (if sending by mail)]
[Attorney’s Typed Name]
[Attorney’s Title]
[Attorney’s Law Firm Name]
Sample Demand Letters (by Types)
Sample NDA Violation Demand Letter
Re: Violation of Non-Disclosure Agreement
Dear Mr. Gale,
I represent Ms. Jane Smith in connection with the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) dated January 1, 20XX, that you entered into. It has come to our attention that you have disclosed confidential information in violation of this agreement, specifically during a conference on September 15, 20XX, in New York City.
Under the terms of the NDA, you agreed not to disclose any information regarding Ms. Smith’s proprietary technology. The unauthorized disclosure of such information is a clear breach of the NDA and has caused significant damage to Ms. Smith’s business interests.
We hereby demand that you cease and desist from any further disclosures and confirm in writing within 7 days that you will comply with the obligations under the NDA. Failure to comply may result in legal action to enforce the NDA, seek damages for breach, and any other remedies available under the law.
Sincerely,
John Doe, Esq.
Doe & Associates, LLP
Sample Collection of a Debt Demand Letter
Subject: Urgent: Outstanding Debt Payment Demand for Account #567890
Dear Mr. Clarkson,
I am writing on behalf of Springfield Supplies, Inc., regarding your account with us (Account #567890), which currently shows an outstanding balance of $5,000. This balance is in regard to the purchase of construction materials made on March 15, 2024, which, as per our records, remains unpaid despite previous reminders and invoices sent on April 1, 20XX, May 1, 20XX, and June 1, 20XX.
We understand that unforeseen circumstances can affect financial commitments; however, it is imperative to address outstanding debts promptly to avoid further complications. Therefore, we kindly request that the full amount of $5,000 be settled within 15 days from the receipt of this letter, specifically by October 20, 20XX, to prevent any additional action.
Failure to comply with this payment request will regrettably leave us no choice but to initiate legal proceedings to recover the debt. This course of action will include claims for the original debt amount, accrued interest as per the agreed terms of 1.5% per month on the outstanding balance since April 15, 20XX, and any legal fees incurred by Springfield Supplies, Inc., in the pursuit of this debt.
We would like to resolve this matter without recourse to legal action and encourage you to contact us immediately to discuss potential payment arrangements if you are experiencing financial difficulties. You can reach me directly at (555) 0202-2024 or via email at alicia.hart@hartlegalsolutions.com.
Your prompt attention to this matter is highly appreciated, and we hope to receive confirmation of your payment or to hear from you regarding a payment plan within the specified timeframe.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
Alicia Hart, Esq.
Partner
Hart Legal Solutions
Injury Demand Letter Sample
Subject: Personal Injury Demand Letter – Claim No. AC123456789 – Michael Thompson
Dear Mr. Doe,
I represent Mr. Michael Thompson in connection with injuries sustained from an automobile accident on June 15, 20XX, for which your policyholder, Ms. Linda Green, has been found at fault. As detailed in the attached police report, Ms. Green’s failure to adhere to traffic signals directly led to the collision with Mr. Thompson’s vehicle at the intersection of Pine Street and Lake Avenue, Orlando, FL.
Mr. Thompson suffered multiple severe injuries as a result of this accident, including a fractured right arm, whiplash, and significant back injuries, which required emergency medical attention, hospitalization, and ongoing physical therapy. Attached are the medical reports from Orlando Health Hospital and invoices for the medical treatment received, which substantiate these claims.
To date, Mr. Thompson has incurred medical expenses totaling $45,000. This includes emergency room services, surgical procedures, medication, and physical therapy. Additionally, due to these injuries, Mr. Thompson was unable to return to his employment as a construction manager for a period of three months, resulting in lost wages amounting to $15,000. Documentation supporting these financial losses is enclosed.
Beyond the tangible financial impacts, Mr. Thompson has endured considerable pain and suffering, not to mention the emotional distress associated with his recovery and the impact on his daily life and activities.
Considering the severity of Mr. Thompson’s injuries, the negligence of your insured, and the substantial financial and emotional toll this accident has caused, we demand compensation in the amount of $150,000. This amount is intended to cover all medical expenses, lost wages, and an appropriate sum for pain and suffering.
We trust that AllCare Insurance Company will recognize the seriousness of this matter and provide a fair and timely settlement offer in response to this demand. We kindly request a written response within 30 days of receipt of this letter, failing which we will consider all available legal options to ensure that Mr. Thompson is justly compensated for his injuries and losses.
Mr. Thompson has placed his faith in the legal process to achieve a fair resolution, and we hope to resolve this matter amicably. Should you require additional information or wish to discuss this demand further, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Karen Rodriguez, Esq.
Rodriguez & Partners Personal Injury Lawyers
For Mr. Michael Thompson
Insurance Claim Demand Letter Sample
Re: Property Damage Claim #CD789012
Dear Mr. Smith,
I am writing on behalf of Mr. George Newman, my client, concerning his property damage claim (#CD789012) with BigRiver Insurance Co. This claim pertains to significant damage sustained by Mr. Newman’s property located at 789 Riverside Drive, Austin, TX, due to the severe storm event on July 4, 20XX. Despite Mr. Newman’s compliance with policy requirements and timely claim submission, including comprehensive documentation of damages and repair estimates, this claim remains unresolved as of today’s date.
The damages to Mr. Newman’s property have been thoroughly assessed by independent contractors, and the total cost for necessary repairs has been estimated at $50,000. This estimate encompasses roof repairs, window replacements, and water damage restoration essential to return the property to its pre-damage condition. Please find attached detailed repair estimates, photographic evidence of the damages, and records of communication with BigRiver Insurance Co. regarding this claim.
It is our understanding, based on the terms of Mr. Newman’s homeowner’s insurance policy with BigRiver Insurance Co., that coverage for such damages is unequivocally included. Therefore, we find the delay in processing and settling this claim both unreasonable and unjustifiable. The ongoing delay has not only caused Mr. Newman considerable inconvenience but has also exacerbated the extent of the property damage, leading to additional financial burdens.
We hereby demand the immediate release of the full settlement amount of $50,000 to cover the repair costs as outlined in the attached estimates. We kindly request that BigRiver Insurance Co. process this payment no later than 15 days from the receipt of this letter to avoid any further action.
Please be advised that failure to settle this claim within the specified timeframe may compel us to initiate legal proceedings against BigRiver Insurance Co. to recover the owed amount, along with any associated legal fees and additional damages resulting from the delay.
Mr. Newman has placed his trust in BigRiver Insurance Co. to act in good faith, and it is our sincere hope that this matter can be resolved promptly and fairly. We look forward to your immediate response and are available to discuss this matter further at your earliest convenience. You may contact me directly at 555-0404-0404 or via email at samantha.lee@leelegalgroup.com.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Samantha Lee, Esq.
Partner
Lee Legal Group
For Mr. George Newman
A Pending Litigation Demand Letter
Subject: Notice of Pending Litigation and Final Demand for Resolution – Case No. 12345
Dear Mr. Franklin,
I represent Ms. Lydia Morris in connection with the breach of contract and unpaid compensation dispute involving Franklin Enterprises, Inc. Despite numerous attempts for amicable resolution and after extensive negotiations, it is disheartening to note that we have reached an impasse. Therefore, please consider this letter as formal notice of pending litigation, along with a final demand for settlement before we proceed to file a lawsuit in the Court of Common Pleas of Philadelphia County.
As you are aware, Ms. Morris was employed by Franklin Enterprises, Inc., from January 20XX to December 20XX. During her tenure, she was instrumental in the development of several key projects that significantly benefited your company. However, Franklin Enterprises, Inc., has failed to compensate Ms. Morris for her last six months of employment, amounting to an outstanding balance of $75,000, as per the terms of her employment contract.
We have previously sought to resolve this matter without resorting to litigation, as evidenced by our letters dated February 15, 20XX, and April 10, 20XX, and through mediation on August 1, 20XX. Unfortunately, these efforts have been unfruitful due to your company’s reluctance to fulfill its contractual obligations to Ms. Morris.
This letter serves as a final demand for the payment of $75,000 owed to Ms. Morris. We urge Franklin Enterprises, Inc., to settle this matter by October 20, 20XX, to avoid litigation. Failure to comply with this demand will result in immediate legal action without further notice. Please be advised that litigation will seek not only the unpaid compensation but also interest, legal fees, and any other damages the court deems appropriate.
We prefer to resolve this dispute without engaging in a protracted legal battle, which would incur significant expenses and potentially harm the reputation of Franklin Enterprises, Inc. Therefore, we strongly recommend taking this opportunity to settle the outstanding debt amicably.
Please respond to this letter by October 20, 20XX, indicating your willingness to settle the outstanding amount. Should you choose to ignore this demand, we are prepared to take all necessary legal steps to protect Ms. Morris’s rights and interests.
For discussions or to confirm your agreement to the settlement, I can be reached directly at 215-555-9090 or via email at thomas.green@greenassociates.com.
Thank you for your prompt attention to this serious matter.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Thomas Green, Esq.
Green & Associates Law Firm
For Ms. Lydia Morris
Settlement Offer Sample Letter
Subject: Settlement Offer Regarding Employment Dispute – Jane Anderson vs. Tech Innovate Solutions
Dear Mr. Kingston,
As legal counsel for Ms. Jane Anderson, I am writing to present a settlement offer to resolve the ongoing employment dispute between Ms. Anderson and Tech Innovate Solutions. It is our hope that an amicable resolution can be reached without the need for formal litigation, which would save both parties considerable time and resources.
Ms. Anderson’s claim arises from allegations of wrongful termination and unpaid overtime, which contravene both the terms of her employment contract and applicable labor laws. Our calculations, based on the employment records and hours logged by Ms. Anderson, indicate that she is owed approximately $30,000 in unpaid wages and overtime.
To avoid the costs and uncertainties associated with litigation, Ms. Anderson is willing to settle this matter for the sum of $25,000. This amount represents a compromise and is offered in the spirit of conciliation. Payment of this sum will result in Ms. Anderson releasing Tech Innovate Solutions from any further claims related to her employment.
Settling this dispute will not only mitigate the risk of potential legal costs and damages but also prevent any negative publicity that might arise from a court case. It is an opportunity for both parties to close this chapter amicably and move forward.
We kindly request your response to this settlement offer by October 19, 20XX. Should you have any counteroffers or require further discussion, I am available for a meeting or a call at your earliest convenience.
Please consider this offer carefully. We believe it presents a fair resolution to a complex issue and is in the best interest of both parties. We look forward to your prompt reply and are hopeful for a positive resolution.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Laura Bennett, Esq.
Bennett Law Offices
For Ms. Jane Anderson
Return of Personal Property Demand Letter Sample
Subject: Demand for Immediate Return of Personal Property
Dear Mr. Wellings,
I am writing on behalf of my client, Ms. Emily Hart, in regards to certain personal property currently in your possession, which you have unlawfully retained post the termination of your personal and business relationship on September 1, 20XX. Despite multiple requests from Ms. Hart for the return of her belongings, you have failed to comply, thereby necessitating this formal demand.
The items in question include, but are not limited to, a Nikon D850 DSLR camera, a MacBook Pro 15-inch (2019 model), and various pieces of jewelry (a detailed list is attached herewith). These items hold both significant monetary and sentimental value to Ms. Hart.
This letter serves as a formal demand for the immediate return of the aforementioned items to Ms. Hart. We insist on the return of her property no later than October 20, 20XX, to avoid further legal action. Please be advised, should you fail to return the property by this date, we are prepared to initiate legal proceedings to ensure its return, in addition to seeking damages for its wrongful retention.
Ms. Hart prefers to resolve this matter amicably and without recourse to litigation. We believe that the prompt return of her property can achieve such a resolution. You may contact me directly to arrange the return of the items or if you have any questions regarding this demand.
Please understand that this letter is intended to assert Ms. Hart’s rights and to provide you with one final opportunity to return her property voluntarily. We hope you will take this opportunity seriously and act accordingly to avoid further complications.
Kindly confirm receipt of this letter and inform us of your intentions regarding the return of Ms. Hart’s property by contacting me at 303-555-0192 or via email at jessica.thompson@thompsonwaters.com.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this matter. We look forward to your prompt compliance with this demand.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Jessica Thompson, Esq.
Thompson & Waters Legal Practitioners
For Ms. Emily Hart
Malpractice Claim Demand Letter Sample
Subject: Demand for Compensation Due to Medical Malpractice
Dear Dr. O’Malley,
I am writing on behalf of my client, Mr. Robert Chen, regarding a serious instance of medical malpractice that occurred under your care at the Advanced Healthcare Center on May 15, 20XX. Despite Mr. Chen’s trust in the professionalism and expertise expected at your facility, he has suffered significant harm due to what we believe was a clear deviation from the standard of care in his treatment.
Mr. Chen was admitted for a routine gallbladder surgery, during which an avoidable surgical error resulted in severe internal injuries, leading to extended hospitalization, additional surgeries, and substantial physical and emotional distress. Medical records and expert consultations confirm that these complications were directly caused by the surgical team’s negligence.
Consequences Suffered by Mr. Chen:
- Extended hospital stay and multiple follow-up surgeries
- Lost wages due to inability to work during recovery
- Ongoing physical pain and emotional trauma
- Accumulated medical expenses totaling $150,000 for corrective procedures and rehabilitation
Given the circumstances and the impact of these injuries on Mr. Chen’s health, livelihood, and well-being, we hereby demand compensation in the amount of $500,000. This sum is sought to cover all medical expenses incurred, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any future costs related to this incident.
While Mr. Chen is fully prepared to pursue legal action to seek justice for the wrongs suffered, he is also amenable to an out-of-court settlement to resolve this matter expeditiously and without further distress. We hope that your acknowledgment of the gravity of this situation will lead to a fair and prompt resolution.
We expect a response to this demand within 30 days of receipt of this letter, indicating your willingness to compensate Mr. Chen for the damages suffered. Failure to respond satisfactorily within this timeframe will leave us with no choice but to initiate formal legal proceedings against you and Advanced Healthcare Center without further notice.
Please consider this matter with the seriousness it warrants. Mr. Chen’s preference is for a peaceful resolution, but he is resolved to seek the compensation he deserves for the harm endured. For any discussions or to communicate your response, I can be reached directly at 619-555-0245 or via email at derek.foster@fosterlaw.com.
Thank you for your immediate attention to this critical matter.
Sincerely,
[Signature]
Derek Foster, Esq.
Foster & Associates, Attorneys at Law
For Mr. Robert Chen
Reasons to Send Demand Letter from an Attorney
You will have legal letterhead
Writing it will save you from attending court summons because you have legal firm letterhead that implies you are working with the attorney straight from the beginning. This also implies that you are ready to take legal action if the notice is ignored.
The attorney will ensure the letter is worded professionally
It is an official indication that you are informing the debtor of your grievances and that you demand a claim to your payment following legal action. Therefore, your attorney will ensure that the letter is worded appropriately to ensure it is admissible in court.
It helps in organizing your case
Your attorney will ensure the facts are clearly outlined based on the evidence and the agreements that were made with the other party. Doing so will help you determine your position on the case based on evidence and law. This puts you in a prepared position to litigate if the need arises.
It promotes case settlement
Having a clear and precise letter of demand from your attorney increases the chances of a settlement. This gives it legal purpose because you will have better representation in court with the help of your attorney. Therefore, the recipient will have to comply with the terms of the settlement or avail themselves of negotiations to prevent a lawsuit.
Planning for collection
It is among the particulars that will be examined when suing for the payments. As a result, if an attorney writes your letter, collecting money from clients who have unpaid bills will go more smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When a lawyer sends this letter, it implies that failure to adhere to the letter might result in filing a lawsuit. Therefore, the recipient will rectify the situation or send a response letter for negotiations.
Average attorneys will give price quotations ranging from $500 to-700. On the other hand, high-end attorneys with established law firms are likely to charge $1500-$2000.
The settlement might take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the magnitude of the situation.
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