Have you gotten to a point where legal action feels like the only option left? Many people find themselves needing to write a letter of intent to sue but feel lost about where to start. The right words can make all the difference between getting the response you want and having your concerns ignored.
This guide provides 15 ready-to-use sample letters for different situations where you might need to formally notify someone of your intent to take legal action. Each letter can be adapted to fit your specific circumstances while maintaining the professional tone needed for legal communications.
Letters of Intent to Sue
These sample letters will help you craft the right message for your situation.
1. Basic Letter of Intent to Sue for Breach of Contract
[Date]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Position/Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Breach of Contract
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notice of my intent to sue [Company Name] for breach of contract regarding our agreement dated [contract date].
Despite multiple attempts to resolve this matter amicably, you have failed to fulfill your contractual obligations as outlined in section [X] of our agreement. Specifically, you have [briefly describe the breach, e.g., “failed to deliver the promised goods by the agreed deadline” or “provided services that did not meet the standards specified in our contract”].
I have suffered damages in the amount of $[amount] as a result of this breach. These damages include [briefly outline damages, such as “loss of business,” “additional expenses incurred,” etc.].
I request that you remedy this situation by [specific remedy sought, e.g., “completing the work as agreed,” “providing a full refund,” etc.] within [number] days of receiving this letter. If you fail to do so, I will have no choice but to file a lawsuit against you and your company to recover my damages, plus court costs and attorney fees.
Please contact me at [phone number] or [email address] if you wish to discuss this matter further.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
2. Letter of Intent to Sue for Personal Injury
[Date]
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name]
[Recipient Position/Title]
[Company Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Personal Injury
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
I am writing to formally notify you of my intent to file a lawsuit against [Company Name] for injuries I sustained on [date of injury] at [location of injury].
On the above date, I suffered [describe injury] when [briefly describe what happened, e.g., “I slipped on an unmarked wet floor in your store”]. As a direct result of this incident, I have incurred medical expenses totaling $[amount], lost wages of $[amount], and experienced significant pain and suffering.
My medical records clearly show that my injuries resulted from this incident, which could have been prevented had proper safety measures been in place. Specifically, [describe how the party was negligent, e.g., “your staff failed to place caution signs around the recently mopped area”].
I have attempted to resolve this matter through your insurance company, but the offer of $[amount] is inadequate to cover my expenses and suffering. I request compensation in the amount of $[amount] to cover all my damages. If we cannot reach a fair settlement within [number] days, I will proceed with filing a lawsuit.
My attorney, [Attorney name] of [Law firm], can be reached at [phone number] to discuss this matter. All future communication regarding this claim should be directed to my attorney.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
3. Letter of Intent to Sue a Landlord
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Landlord’s Name] [Landlord’s Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Landlord Violations
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notice of my intent to take legal action regarding ongoing issues at my rental property located at [your address].
For the past [time period], I have been dealing with [describe the problem, e.g., “a severe mold issue,” “lack of heat during winter months,” “a leaking roof”]. Despite my repeated notifications on [list dates of previous communications], you have failed to address these issues as required by [cite specific housing codes or lease provisions].
These conditions have caused me and my family significant hardship, including [describe impacts, e.g., “health problems,” “damage to personal property worth $X,” “inability to use certain rooms in the home”]. I have documented all issues with photographs and medical reports, which will be presented as evidence if necessary.
I request that you make the necessary repairs within [number] days and compensate me in the amount of $[amount] for [damages, rent reduction, hotel stays, etc.]. If these matters are not resolved by [date], I will file a lawsuit seeking full damages, court costs, and attorney fees.
You may contact me at [phone number] to arrange repairs or discuss a settlement.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
4. Letter of Intent to Sue for Defamation
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name] [Recipient Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Defamation
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
I am writing to inform you of my intent to file a lawsuit against you for defamatory statements you made about me that have caused serious harm to my reputation and livelihood.
On or about [date], you stated to [recipient(s) of the statement] that [quote or paraphrase the false statement]. This statement is completely false. The truth is [briefly state the facts].
As a result of your false statements, I have suffered considerable damage, including [describe specific damages, e.g., “loss of business clients valued at approximately $X,” “termination from my employment,” “social ostracism in my community”]. I have evidence that your statements were made with knowledge of their falsity or with reckless disregard for the truth.
I demand that you immediately:
- Retract your false statements in the same manner they were made
- Issue a public apology
- Pay damages in the amount of $[amount] to compensate for the harm I have suffered
If you do not comply with these demands within [number] days, I will proceed with filing a defamation lawsuit against you. The lawsuit will seek compensatory damages, punitive damages, and legal fees.
This matter may still be resolved without court action if you respond appropriately. Please direct your response to me at the address above or to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [Attorney contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
5. Letter of Intent to Sue for Discrimination
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name] [Recipient Position/Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Discrimination
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notification of my intent to file a discrimination lawsuit against [Company Name] based on [type of discrimination, e.g., “racial,” “gender,” “age,” “disability”] discrimination I experienced while [employed at/doing business with] your company.
Between [start date] and [end date], I was subjected to [describe discriminatory treatment in detail, e.g., “denied promotion despite my qualifications while less-qualified colleagues of a different race were promoted,” “subjected to hostile comments about my age,” “refused reasonable accommodations for my disability”]. Specific incidents occurred on [provide dates and brief descriptions of key incidents].
This treatment violates [cite applicable laws, e.g., “Title VII of the Civil Rights Act,” “the Americans with Disabilities Act,” “the Age Discrimination in Employment Act”]. I have already filed a complaint with the [appropriate agency, e.g., “Equal Employment Opportunity Commission”] and received a Right to Sue letter on [date], which is attached.
I have suffered damages including [list damages, e.g., “lost wages,” “emotional distress,” “medical expenses”] as a result of this unlawful discrimination. I am prepared to present substantial evidence of the discrimination, including [mention types of evidence, e.g., “witness statements,” “email communications,” “performance reviews”].
I request that we attempt to resolve this matter without litigation. To do so, I seek the following remedies:
- [Specific remedy, e.g., “Reinstatement to my position” or “Promotion to the position I was denied”]
- Compensation in the amount of $[amount] for back pay and damages
- [Any other specific remedies]
Please respond within [number] days if you wish to discuss a settlement. Otherwise, I will proceed with filing a lawsuit in [appropriate court].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
Enclosure: Right to Sue Letter from [Agency]
6. Letter of Intent to Sue for Product Liability
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Product Manufacturer Name] [Legal Department/Officer] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Product Liability
Dear Sir or Madam,
I purchased your product, [product name and model number], on [date] from [retailer name and location]. This letter serves as formal notice of my intent to file a product liability lawsuit based on injuries and damages I sustained while using this product as directed.
On [date of incident], I was using the product according to the provided instructions when [describe what happened, e.g., “the device overheated and caught fire,” “the component broke and caused injury”]. As a result, I suffered [describe injuries] requiring [describe medical treatment] and incurred medical bills totaling $[amount]. Additionally, the incident caused [describe property damage] valued at $[amount] and resulted in [describe any lost wages or other financial impacts].
My claim is based on [basis of claim, e.g., “manufacturing defect,” “design defect,” “failure to warn of known dangers”]. The product was unsafe for its intended use because [explain why]. I have preserved the product in its post-incident condition and have photographs documenting both the product failure and my injuries.
I have also obtained medical documentation linking my injuries directly to this incident and have statements from [mention any witnesses or experts who support your claim].
I demand compensation in the amount of $[amount] to cover my medical expenses, property damage, pain and suffering, and other related costs. If this matter is not resolved satisfactorily within [number] days, I will file a lawsuit seeking full compensatory damages, punitive damages where applicable, and legal costs.
Please direct all communication regarding this matter to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information], who is prepared to discuss a reasonable settlement.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
7. Letter of Intent to Sue for Non-Payment
[Date]
[Your Name or Company Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Debtor’s Name] [Debtor’s Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Final Notice of Intent to Sue for Non-Payment
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter is a final demand for payment and notification of my intent to file a lawsuit against you for the unpaid balance of $[amount] for [services rendered/goods provided] on [date(s)].
Despite multiple invoices and reminders sent on [list dates], you have failed to make payment as agreed in our contract dated [contract date]. Your account is now [number] days past due.
The unpaid invoices include:
- Invoice #[number] for $[amount], dated [date], due [date]
- Invoice #[number] for $[amount], dated [date], due [date]
- [List additional invoices as needed]
I have made good faith efforts to resolve this matter by [describe previous attempts, e.g., “offering a payment plan,” “extending the payment deadline”]. However, these efforts have been met with [describe response or lack thereof].
Unless I receive payment in full in the amount of $[total amount, including any late fees] by [date, typically 10-15 days from the date of the letter], I will file a lawsuit in [appropriate court] seeking the full amount owed, plus interest at the legal rate, court costs, and attorney fees as permitted by law.
To avoid litigation, please send payment via [acceptable payment methods] to the address above. If you wish to discuss payment arrangements, contact me at [phone number] no later than [date].
This is your final opportunity to resolve this matter without legal action.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name] [Your Title, if applicable]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
8. Letter of Intent to Sue for Medical Malpractice
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Physician’s Name] [Medical Practice/Hospital Name] [Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Medical Malpractice
Dear Dr. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notification of my intent to file a medical malpractice lawsuit against you and [hospital/practice name] regarding the care I received from [date] to [date].
On [date], I came under your care for [describe medical condition or procedure]. During the course of treatment, you [describe the alleged negligence or error, e.g., “failed to diagnose my condition despite clear symptoms,” “performed surgery on the wrong site,” “prescribed medication to which my medical records clearly indicated I was allergic”].
As a direct result of this substandard care, I suffered [describe injuries, complications, or worsened condition] requiring [describe additional treatment needed]. These complications have resulted in [describe ongoing effects, e.g., “permanent disability,” “inability to work,” “chronic pain”]. My additional medical expenses total $[amount], and I have lost approximately $[amount] in wages due to my inability to work during recovery.
I have consulted with medical experts who have reviewed my case and confirmed that your care fell below the accepted standard of practice in [medical specialty]. I have also retained all medical records, test results, and other documentation related to my treatment.
In accordance with [cite relevant state law regarding medical malpractice notice requirements], I am providing this notice before filing a lawsuit. I seek compensation of $[amount] for my medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from this malpractice.
My attorney, [Attorney name] of [Law firm], can be reached at [contact information] to discuss this matter. All communication regarding this claim should be directed to my attorney or your malpractice insurance carrier.
If I do not receive a response within [number] days, I will proceed with filing a lawsuit.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
cc: [Hospital Administrator/Medical Group Manager, if applicable] [Your Attorney’s name]
9. Letter of Intent to Sue a School District
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Superintendent’s Name] [School District Name] [School District Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue [School District Name]
Dear Superintendent [Last Name],
As the parent and legal guardian of [Child’s Name], I am writing to formally notify [School District Name] of my intent to file a lawsuit regarding [briefly describe issue, e.g., “disability discrimination,” “failure to address ongoing bullying,” “improper disciplinary action”].
My child, who attends [School Name], has experienced [describe the situation in detail, including dates and specific incidents]. Despite multiple attempts to resolve this matter through [describe previous efforts, e.g., “meetings with teachers and administrators,” “following the district’s grievance procedure”], the situation has not been adequately addressed.
This failure to act violates my child’s rights under [cite applicable laws, e.g., “the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act,” “Title IX,” “Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act”]. The school’s actions—or lack thereof—have resulted in [describe harm to your child, e.g., “educational setbacks,” “emotional distress,” “physical injuries”].
I have documented evidence of these incidents, including [list types of evidence, e.g., “written communications with school staff,” “medical records,” “witness statements”]. Additionally, I filed a formal complaint with [relevant agency, if applicable] on [date].
I request that the district take immediate action to:
- [Specific action requested, e.g., “Implement my child’s IEP as written”]
- [Second specific action, e.g., “Take appropriate disciplinary action against the responsible parties”]
- [Any other specific remedies]
If these issues are not satisfactorily resolved within [number] days, I will proceed with legal action seeking appropriate remedies, including [list potential remedies, e.g., “compensatory education services,” “damages for emotional distress,” “policy changes”].
As required by [cite any state law requiring notice before suing a public entity], this letter serves as my statutory notice of claim. Please direct all communications regarding this matter to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
cc: [School Principal] [School District’s Attorney, if known] [Your Attorney]
10. Letter of Intent to Sue for Copyright Infringement
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Infringer’s Name] [Infringer’s Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Copyright Infringement and Intent to Sue
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
I am writing to formally notify you that you have infringed on my copyright-protected work and to inform you of my intent to file a lawsuit if this matter is not promptly resolved.
I am the legal owner of [describe the copyrighted work, e.g., “the photograph titled ‘Sunset Over Mountains’,” “the article ‘Ten Ways to Improve Your Health’,” “the song ‘Midnight Dreams'”]. This work is protected under copyright registration number [number, if registered] or by common law copyright [if not registered].
It has come to my attention that you have [describe the infringement, e.g., “published my photograph on your website without permission,” “copied substantial portions of my article in your blog post,” “used my music in your promotional video”]. This unauthorized use occurred on or about [date] and can be found at [provide location, URL, or other identifying information].
Your unauthorized use of my work constitutes copyright infringement under the Copyright Act of 1976. As the copyright owner, I have the exclusive right to reproduce, distribute, display, perform, and create derivative works based on my original content.
I demand that you immediately:
- Remove all infringing content from [website/publication/venue]
- Provide written confirmation that you have done so
- Pay damages in the amount of $[amount] for the unauthorized use of my work
- Agree in writing not to infringe on my copyrighted works in the future
If you do not comply with these demands within [number] days, I will file a copyright infringement lawsuit against you. Under the Copyright Act, you may be liable for statutory damages of up to $150,000 per work for willful infringement, plus attorney fees and costs.
If you believe your use of my work is authorized or constitutes fair use, please provide documentation supporting your position immediately.
You may contact me at [phone number] or [email address] to resolve this matter.
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
11. Letter of Intent to Sue an Insurance Company
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Claims Manager’s Name] [Insurance Company Name] [Insurance Company Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Bad Faith Insurance Practices
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notification of my intent to file a lawsuit against [Insurance Company Name] for bad faith insurance practices regarding claim number [claim number].
I have been a policyholder with your company since [date], paying all premiums on time under policy number [policy number]. On [date of incident], I experienced [describe the covered event, e.g., “a house fire,” “a car accident,” “a medical emergency”] and promptly filed a claim on [date claim was filed].
Despite providing all requested documentation and fulfilling all requirements of my policy, your company has [describe the bad faith actions, e.g., “denied my valid claim without proper investigation,” “unreasonably delayed processing my claim for over six months,” “offered a settlement that covers only a fraction of my covered losses”].
My policy clearly states that [quote relevant policy language supporting your claim]. The facts of my claim clearly fall within the coverage provided, yet your company has failed to honor its contractual obligations.
This conduct violates [cite relevant state insurance laws] and constitutes insurance bad faith. As a result of your company’s actions, I have suffered additional damages beyond my original claim, including [describe additional damages, e.g., “having to pay out of pocket for expenses that should have been covered,” “damage to my credit score,” “emotional distress”].
I demand that your company:
- Process and pay my claim in full in the amount of $[amount] as required by my policy
- Pay an additional $[amount] for the damages caused by your bad faith handling of my claim
If this matter is not resolved to my satisfaction within [number] days, I will file a lawsuit seeking the full value of my claim, additional damages for bad faith, punitive damages as allowed by law, and attorney fees and costs.
All future communication regarding this matter should be directed to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
cc: [State Insurance Commissioner/Department] [Your Attorney]
12. Letter of Intent to Sue for Wrongful Termination
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[HR Director or Company Owner Name] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Wrongful Termination
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notification of my intent to file a wrongful termination lawsuit against [Company Name] regarding my employment termination on [termination date].
I was employed by your company as a [job title] from [start date] to [termination date]. Throughout my employment, I maintained a [describe performance, e.g., “exemplary performance record,” “history of positive performance reviews”]. However, I was terminated shortly after [describe protected activity or characteristic that precipitated termination, e.g., “reporting safety violations to OSHA,” “taking FMLA leave,” “refusing to participate in illegal activity”].
My termination violates [cite applicable laws, e.g., “Title VII of the Civil Rights Act,” “the Americans with Disabilities Act,” “state whistleblower protection laws”]. I have evidence that my termination was retaliatory or discriminatory, including [describe evidence, e.g., “emails from my supervisor threatening consequences if I reported the violations,” “statements from witnesses who heard management discuss firing me because of my disability,” “the suspicious timing of my termination just three days after I filed a complaint”].
I have already filed a complaint with the [appropriate agency, e.g., “Equal Employment Opportunity Commission,” “Department of Labor”] on [date]. [If applicable: “I have received a Right to Sue letter, which is attached.”]
As a result of this wrongful termination, I have suffered damages including lost wages and benefits of approximately $[amount], emotional distress, and damage to my professional reputation.
I am willing to attempt to resolve this matter without litigation. To do so, I propose the following remedies:
- Reinstatement to my former position [or “Payment of severance in the amount of $X”]
- Back pay and benefits from the date of termination
- Compensation for emotional distress in the amount of $[amount]
- A neutral or positive employment reference
- [Any other specific remedies]
Please respond within [number] days if you wish to discuss a settlement. If I do not receive a satisfactory response, I will proceed with filing a lawsuit seeking all available remedies, including punitive damages where applicable.
All communication regarding this matter should be directed to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
Enclosure: [Right to Sue Letter, if applicable]
13. Letter of Intent to Sue for Violation of Privacy
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name] [Recipient Position/Title] [Company Name] [Company Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Privacy Violations
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
I am writing to notify you of my intent to file a lawsuit against [Company/Individual Name] for serious violations of my privacy rights that occurred on or about [date(s) of violation].
On the date(s) mentioned above, you [describe the privacy violation in detail, e.g., “disclosed my confidential medical information to unauthorized parties,” “published private photographs of me without my consent,” “installed surveillance equipment in an area where I had a reasonable expectation of privacy”]. This conduct constitutes a violation of my right to privacy under [cite applicable laws, e.g., “the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA),” “state privacy laws,” “common law invasion of privacy torts”].
As a result of your actions, I have suffered [describe damages, e.g., “emotional distress,” “damage to my reputation,” “loss of employment opportunities”]. I have documentation of these violations, including [describe evidence, e.g., “copies of the unauthorized disclosure,” “witness statements,” “expert testimony regarding the surveillance equipment”].
I demand that you immediately:
- [Specific action to remedy the situation, e.g., “Retrieve and destroy all copies of my private information that were wrongfully disclosed”]
- Provide a written account of all parties who received or viewed my private information
- Pay damages in the amount of $[amount] to compensate for the harm caused by this privacy violation
- Provide written assurance that no further violations will occur
If these demands are not met within [number] days, I will file a lawsuit seeking compensatory damages, punitive damages where applicable, injunctive relief, and attorney fees and costs.
This privacy violation is a serious matter with significant legal consequences. I strongly suggest you consult with your attorney regarding your liability in this situation.
All communication regarding this matter should be in writing and sent to the address above or to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
14. Letter of Intent to Sue for Harassment
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name] [Recipient Position/Title, if applicable] [Company/Organization Name, if applicable] [Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Harassment
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notification of my intent to file a lawsuit against you [and/or your organization, if applicable] for ongoing harassment that has caused me significant distress and harm.
Beginning on or about [date], and continuing through [date or “the present”], you have engaged in a pattern of harassing behavior including [describe specific harassments incidents, e.g., “sending threatening messages,” “making unwanted contact despite my clear requests to stop,” “spreading false information about me to my colleagues and friends”].
Specific incidents include:
- On [date], you [describe specific incident]
- On [date], you [describe specific incident]
- Between [date range], you [describe pattern of behavior]
I have clear documentation of these incidents, including [list evidence, e.g., “text messages,” “emails,” “voice recordings,” “witness statements”]. I have also taken reasonable steps to address this situation before resorting to legal action, including [describe previous attempts to resolve the situation, e.g., “directly asking you to stop,” “blocking your phone number and social media accounts,” “reporting your behavior to [relevant authority]”].
Your actions constitute harassment under [cite relevant laws, e.g., “state anti-stalking laws,” “workplace harassment regulations”]. As a result of your behavior, I have suffered [describe impacts, e.g., “anxiety and emotional distress requiring therapy,” “fear for my physical safety,” “damage to my professional reputation”].
I demand that you immediately:
- Cease all contact and communication with me, directly or through third parties
- Stay at least [number] feet/yards away from me, my home, and my workplace
- Remove any posts, comments, or other content about me from social media or other public forums
- Pay damages in the amount of $[amount] for the emotional distress and other harm your harassment has caused
If you do not comply with these demands within [number] days, I will file a lawsuit seeking compensatory damages, punitive damages, a permanent restraining order, and any other remedies available by law.
Be advised that if your harassment continues after receipt of this letter, it will be used as evidence of your willful and malicious intent, which may result in enhanced damages.
All future communication regarding this matter should be directed to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
cc: [Police Department, if a report was filed] [Employer of harasser, if workplace-related] [Your Attorney]
15. Letter of Intent to Sue for Fraud
[Date]
[Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State ZIP]
[Recipient Name] [Recipient Position/Title] [Company Name, if applicable] [Address] [City, State ZIP]
Subject: Notice of Intent to Sue for Fraud
Dear Mr./Ms. [Last Name],
This letter serves as formal notification of my intent to file a lawsuit against you [and/or your company] for fraud in connection with [briefly describe the transaction or situation].
On or about [date], you knowingly made false representations to me regarding [describe the subject of the fraud, e.g., “the condition of the vehicle you sold me,” “the investment opportunity you promoted,” “the services you claimed your company would provide”]. Specifically, you stated that [quote or paraphrase the false statements], which you knew to be untrue at the time.
I relied on these false representations when I [describe your action based on the fraudulent statements, e.g., “purchased the vehicle,” “invested $X in your scheme,” “signed a contract for services”]. Had I known the truth—that [describe the actual facts]—I would never have entered into this transaction.
As a direct result of your fraudulent actions, I have suffered damages of $[amount], which includes [itemize damages, e.g., “the purchase price of $X,” “repair costs of $X,” “lost investment of $X,” “costs to hire another service provider”].
I have gathered substantial evidence of your fraud, including [describe evidence, e.g., “documentation showing your knowledge of the actual conditions,” “statements from other victims,” “expert opinions confirming the misrepresentations”]. Additionally, I have reported this matter to [relevant authorities, e.g., “the police,” “the Federal Trade Commission,” “the Securities and Exchange Commission”].
I demand that you:
- Refund the full amount of $[amount] that I paid/invested
- Pay additional damages of $[amount] for the consequential losses I have suffered
- Provide a written admission of the fraudulent conduct
If you do not comply with these demands within [number] days, I will file a lawsuit seeking compensatory damages, punitive damages, attorney fees, and costs. Be aware that fraud claims may not be dischargeable in bankruptcy, and in cases of willful fraud, courts often award punitive damages well beyond the actual losses.
This is your opportunity to resolve this matter before facing the full legal consequences of your actions. All communication regarding this matter should be directed to my attorney, [Attorney name], at [contact information].
Sincerely,
[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]
[Your Phone Number] [Your Email Address]
cc: [Law enforcement agency, if report filed] [Regulatory agency, if complaint filed] [Your Attorney]
Wrapping Up: Intent to Sue Letters
The decision to pursue legal action is never easy. A well-written letter of intent to sue can be the first step toward resolving your dispute without going to court. These letters serve multiple purposes: they formally notify the other party of your claims, create a record of your attempt to resolve the matter, and often open the door to meaningful settlement talks.
When writing your own letter, focus on clarity and facts. Include specific dates, amounts, and details about what happened. Stay professional even if you feel angry or frustrated. Your goal is to show that you have a valid legal claim and are serious about pursuing it if necessary.
Keep copies of all your communications and send important letters using certified mail with return receipt requested. This gives you proof that your letter was received. Set clear deadlines for response and be specific about what you want – whether that’s money, action, or both.
While these sample letters provide good starting points, each situation is unique. Consider consulting with an attorney before sending your letter, especially for complex legal matters or when significant amounts of money are at stake. Many attorneys offer free initial consultations and can help strengthen your position.
Remember that legal action should typically be your last resort after other attempts to resolve the issue have failed. However, being prepared to take that step—and showing that preparation through a professional letter of intent to sue—often provides the leverage needed to reach a fair solution without setting foot in a courtroom.