Letter of demand

A letter of demand is a formal written notice sent to the party responsible for an accident, or their insurer, setting out what is being claimed and asking for payment within a stated period.

It often marks the point where informal negotiation has not resolved the claim and a more formal step is being considered, explained further in what a letter of demand is. It is not itself a court document, but it can be referred to later if the matter does go to court.

A clear, accurate letter of demand can sometimes prompt a serious response where earlier informal contact did not.

Most letters of demand give a specific number of days to respond before further steps, such as filing in court, are considered.