Introduction
A legal notice is a formal written communication sent to a person, company, landlord, employer, or any other party to inform them of a legal grievance. It warns them that legal action may be taken if the issue is not resolved.
Legal notices are used in property disputes, consumer complaints, loan defaults, contract breaches, employer-employee conflicts, and many other situations.
When Do You Need a Legal Notice?
- Unpaid dues or loan defaults
- Property or landlord-tenant disputes
- Consumer complaint against a seller/company
- Cheque bounce / Section 138 NI Act
- Breach of contract or agreement
- Employment termination or salary disputes
- Family disputes (limited cases)
Steps to Write a Legal Notice
Step 1 — Identify the Purpose of the Notice
Clearly define the issue, such as payment dispute, harassment, breach of contract, etc.
Step 2 — Collect All Evidence
Gather invoices, agreements, chats, emails, contracts, or photos related to the dispute.
Step 3 — Mention Full Details of Both Parties
Write the complete name, address, email, and contact number of sender and receiver.
Step 4 — Clearly Explain the Issue and Timeline
State what happened, dates, and how the dispute arose.
Step 5 — Specify Your Legal Claim or Demand
Mention what you want: refund, payment, possession, apology, or other relief.
Step 6 — Give a Deadline to Respond
Most legal notices give 7–30 days to reply.
Step 7 — Mention Possible Legal Action
Clearly state that you will take legal steps if they fail to respond.
Legal Notice Format (2026)
LEGAL NOTICE
From:
[Your Name]
[Address]
[Mobile Number]
[Email]
To,
[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Address]
Dear Sir/Madam,
This notice is being issued to you regarding [mention issue]. Despite repeated reminders, you have failed to comply with the agreed terms.
You are hereby called upon to [refund/pay/resolve issue] within [__ days] . Failure to do so will leave me with no option but to initiate legal proceedings against you at your sole risk and cost.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Note: It is recommended to consult a lawyer for complex legal disputes.
Tips to Make a Strong Legal Notice
- Keep the language clear and professional
- Avoid emotional or abusive words
- Mention all facts with dates
- Attach supporting documents if sending via email
- Give a reasonable response time
- Always keep a copy of the notice
How to Send a Legal Notice
- 1. Registered Post (Speed Post)
The most preferred method. Always keep tracking slip. - 2. Email
You can send a signed PDF copy. - 3. Lawyer Delivery
A lawyer can issue and dispatch the notice on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is a lawyer required to issue a legal notice?
- No. You can draft and send a legal notice yourself, but for complex disputes, a lawyer is recommended.
- How many days should I give for a response?
- Usually 7 to 30 days depending on the matter.
- Is legal notice mandatory before filing a case?
- For many civil cases (like recovery, property, contracts), yes. For criminal matters, it is not mandatory.