When a notice may be sent

A legal notice may be considered where informal requests have not resolved an issue — for example, a payment that remains outstanding, a contractual obligation that has not been met, or a disagreement about how a relationship should end. Sending a notice is often a step taken before considering further formal action, and it creates a written record of the position taken.

The appropriate content and timing of a notice depend on the underlying facts, the contract (if any) and the applicable law and procedure.

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What a notice typically covers

  • A description of the relationship or contract between the parties.
  • A summary of the issue or request being raised.
  • Reference to relevant documents, dates or amounts.
  • A description of the action being requested or the period given to respond.
  • A statement that further steps may be considered if the matter is not resolved.

If you receive a notice

  1. 1Read the notice carefully and note any dates or deadlines referred to.
  2. 2Gather the documents relevant to the issue raised.
  3. 3Consider whether the position taken in the notice is accurate as a matter of fact.
  4. 4Decide whether to respond in writing, negotiate directly, or seek advice before responding.
  5. 5Keep a copy of the notice and any response for your records.

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