How to Write a Legal Letter

Writing a legal letter requires preparation.

Legal letters serve many purposes. They can remedy a problem between two parties in lieu of filing a lawsuit, and they can play a role in contract negotiations and other legal matters. If you're writing a legal letter, keep it professional in tone and write with precision so that you leave no doubt in the reader's mind about your purpose in writing the letter. To do this effectively requires some time and effort.

Instructions

1. Type the full name and address of the party you're addressing at the top of the letter and include the date you plan to send it. Use a standard font like Times New Roman and black ink to make sure your letter is legible.

2. Address the other party by name and use a courtesy title, Mr., Mrs. or Ms. If your letter is to a company or you don't know who will read it, begin the letter with "To Whom it May Concern."

3. Cite any enclosures to your letter. Mention these first so that the other party can verify that you sent them and look them over before continuing with the letter. An example would be starting your letter with "Enclosed is a copy of our contractual agreement dated..."

4. State why you're writing the letter and give the specifics of your case. Include the names of any related people or companies and the exact dates of any interactions or incidents. The more detail you can include, the better.

5. Cite any laws that apply to your letter, if applicable, and explain why the law applies to your writing the letter.

6. State what you want in the letter, whether it's a payment or an action of some sort from the other party. Give a specific time frame (two weeks is standard) for the letter to be responded to before you take further action.

7. Proofread your letter for errors and to keep it concise. Eschew passive verbs. Use the active voice instead. Edit out any words or phrases that aren't necessary.

8. Sign and date the letter at the bottom. Send it the same day you write it.

References

• Write 101: How to Write a Business Letter
• James Martin: How to Write Letters Non-Lawyers Will Not Read
• White Smoke: How to Write a Legal Document