Demand Letter Requirements

Writing a demand letter is a professional way of settling a dispute.

Some disputes can be resolved short of legal action by sending a demand letter. According to Directory M, an online provider of business directories, demand letters can resolve as many as one-third of potential disputes. Demand letters explain a situation and seek a resolution.

Make It Historically Accurate

Even if your opponent knows how the dispute began, succinctly retell it. This will remind him of how things happened from your perspective and it can be presented to a judge if you end up in court.

Make It Polite

Keep the demand letter polite. The recipient will be more open to reading and responding to to your demands if you treat her with respect.

Make It Professional

Write a professional letter, generated with a typewriter or computer. This shows your opponent that you respect him despite your differences. Because this letter may ultimately land on the desk of a judge, it presents you in a more positive light. Keep a copy for your records.

Make It Specific

If you wish to be paid a particular amount of money, say so and specify the date on which it should be paid to you. If you wish for something such as a botched home repair job to be repaired, spell it out and give the recipient the date by which the work should be completed.

Make It Serious

Conclude the letter by stating that you will file a lawsuit if your demand is not met.

References

• NOLO: Demand Letters: The Basics
• Directory M: Demand Letters: The Basics