A legal notice is a formal written communication that sets out a claim, a demand or an intention to take a particular step. Receiving one can be unsettling, but a calm, prompt response usually puts you in a stronger position.
Read it carefully
Identify who has sent it, what they say has happened, what they are asking you to do and by when. Note any reference to a contract, a payment, a court or an authority.
Note the deadline
Most notices give a period within which you must respond or act. Mark that date and work back from it, leaving enough time to take advice and prepare a reply.
Do not ignore it
Ignoring a notice rarely makes the issue go away. It can lead to the other side taking further steps, sometimes without any further warning, and it may limit the options available to you later.
Gather your documents
Collect the contract, correspondence, invoices or other records connected to the matter, and write a short timeline of events. This will allow a lawyer to advise you quickly.
Avoid hasty replies
Replying directly, particularly in anger or by admitting fault, can affect your position. It is usually better to take advice before responding in writing.
Take advice early
The earlier a lawyer sees the notice, the more options there are, which may include a reply, negotiation or an agreed resolution.
This article is general information and is not legal advice. If you would like to discuss your situation, please contact us.
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