Most people believe that once a decision is made, especially in legal or administrative contexts, it’s final and unchangeable. This couldn’t be further from the truth. Courts, government agencies, and various organizations regularly reverse their initial decisions when presented with compelling reasons through a well-crafted motion for reconsideration.
The power to challenge decisions lies in understanding how to present your case effectively. A motion for reconsideration isn’t just about expressing dissatisfaction – it’s about demonstrating why justice, fairness, or accuracy requires a second look. The following ten sample letters will equip you with the tools needed to craft persuasive requests that get results.
Sample Letters of Motion for Reconsideration
Understanding the structure and tone of effective reconsideration requests is essential for success. Each letter below demonstrates different approaches and contexts where you might need to seek a reversal or modification of an initial decision.
1. Motion for Reconsideration – Court Decision
Subject: Motion for Reconsideration of Order Dated [Date] in Case No. [Case Number]
[Insert recipient’s address]
Dear Honorable Judge [Name],
I respectfully request that this Court reconsider its Order dated [Date] in the above-referenced case. New evidence has come to light that was not available during the original proceedings, which materially affects the outcome of this matter.
Specifically, [describe the new evidence or circumstances]. This evidence directly contradicts the findings made in the original order and demonstrates that [explain how it changes the situation]. I was unable to present this information previously because [explain why it wasn’t available].
The interests of justice require reconsideration of this matter. The original decision was based on incomplete information, and this new evidence clearly establishes [state what it establishes]. I have attached supporting documentation that substantiates these claims.
I respectfully request that the Court schedule a hearing to consider this motion and allow me to present this evidence. The original order should be vacated and a new order entered that reflects the true facts of this case.
Thank you for your consideration of this matter.
Respectfully submitted,
[Your name and designation]
2. Motion for Reconsideration – Administrative Agency Decision
Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Denial of Benefits Application
[Recipient’s administrative address]
Dear Benefits Review Officer,
Your agency denied my application for benefits on [Date], citing insufficient documentation. I am writing to formally request reconsideration of this decision based on additional evidence that addresses the stated deficiencies.
The denial letter indicated that my application lacked adequate medical documentation to support my claim. Since receiving your decision, I have obtained comprehensive medical records from [source] that clearly establish the severity and duration of my condition. Records show consistent treatment over the past [time period] and clearly document the limitations that prevent me from working.
Additionally, I have secured a detailed physician’s statement that specifically addresses each concern raised in your denial letter. Dr. [Name] has provided a thorough assessment that directly contradicts the conclusions reached in your initial review.
I believe your agency will find that this additional evidence satisfies all requirements for benefits eligibility. The medical documentation now clearly establishes both the severity of my condition and its impact on my ability to maintain employment.
I request that you reopen my file and reconsider the denial based on this new evidence. I am confident that a thorough review will result in approval of my benefits application.
Sincerely,
[Insert your name and case number]
3. Motion for Reconsideration – Employment Termination
Subject: Formal Request for Reconsideration of Employment Termination Decision
[Company HR address]
Dear Human Resources Director,
I am writing to formally request reconsideration of the decision to terminate my employment, effective [Date]. After reviewing the circumstances that led to this decision, I believe there are significant factual errors and procedural violations that warrant a complete review of this matter.
The termination notice cited [specific reason], but the investigation failed to consider several key facts. First, [explain first key fact]. Second, [explain second key fact]. Finally, the investigation did not follow established company procedures, specifically [cite specific procedure violations].
I have gathered evidence that contradicts the findings in the termination decision. Witness statements from [names] clearly establish that [what they establish]. Additionally, documentation shows that [what documentation shows]. This evidence was not considered during the original investigation.
My employment record demonstrates [positive aspects of record]. The allegations that led to termination are inconsistent with my established performance and character. A thorough review of all available evidence will demonstrate that termination is not warranted in this case.
I respectfully request that you convene a review panel to reconsider this decision. I am prepared to present all evidence and witness testimony that supports my position. Justice and fairness require that all facts be properly considered before such a serious employment action is finalized.
Respectfully,
[Your full name and employee ID]
4. Motion for Reconsideration – Insurance Claim Denial
Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Claim Denial – Policy No. [Number]
[Insurance company claims address]
Dear Claims Review Manager,
Your company denied my insurance claim on [Date], but I believe this denial was based on an incorrect interpretation of my policy coverage. I am requesting formal reconsideration of this decision based on policy language and supporting documentation that clearly establishes coverage for my claim.
The denial letter stated that my claim falls under the [specific exclusion] exclusion. However, careful review of my policy shows that this exclusion does not apply to my situation because [explain why exclusion doesn’t apply]. The policy language in Section [number] specifically provides coverage for circumstances exactly like mine.
I have consulted with [expert/attorney] who confirms that my interpretation of the policy is correct. Additionally, similar claims have been paid by your company in cases such as [cite examples if available]. The denial appears to be inconsistent with both policy language and company practice.
My claim is fully documented and meets all policy requirements. I suffered a covered loss of [amount] and have provided all necessary documentation to support this claim. The denial appears to be based on a misunderstanding of the policy terms rather than any actual policy exclusion.
I request that you assign a senior claims examiner to review this matter. A careful examination of the policy language and claim documentation will clearly establish that coverage exists and payment should be made promptly.
Sincerely yours,
[Insert your name and policy information]
5. Motion for Reconsideration – Academic Dismissal
Subject: Appeal for Reconsideration of Academic Dismissal Decision
[University appeals office address]
Dear Academic Appeals Committee,
I am writing to formally appeal the decision to dismiss me from [Program Name] at your university. While I acknowledge that my academic performance fell below required standards, extraordinary circumstances beyond my control significantly impacted my ability to succeed during the affected semesters.
During the time period in question, I was dealing with [brief description of circumstances – medical, family emergency, etc.]. These circumstances were documented with the Dean of Students office, but apparently were not fully considered in the dismissal decision. I have attached updated documentation that provides a complete picture of the challenges I faced.
My academic record prior to this difficult period demonstrates my capability as a student. I maintained a [GPA] average and received recognition for [specific achievements]. The recent academic struggles are clearly aberrant and directly related to the documented circumstances rather than academic inability.
I have taken concrete steps to address the underlying issues that affected my performance. [Describe specific steps taken]. Additionally, I have developed a comprehensive academic plan with my advisor that ensures future success. I am committed to meeting all academic requirements and regaining good standing.
I respectfully request that the committee reconsider the dismissal decision and allow me to continue my studies under academic probation. My circumstances have improved significantly, and I am prepared to demonstrate my commitment to academic excellence.
Respectfully submitted,
[Student name and ID number]
6. Motion for Reconsideration – Zoning Board Decision
Subject: Motion for Reconsideration of Zoning Variance Denial
[City Planning Department address]
Dear Zoning Board Members,
I respectfully request that the Zoning Board reconsider its denial of my application for a variance at [Property Address]. The denial was based on concerns that I believe can be adequately addressed through modified plans and additional safeguards.
The Board’s primary concerns were [list main concerns from denial]. I have worked with my architect to develop revised plans that specifically address each of these issues. The modified design includes [describe modifications] that eliminate the concerns raised during the original hearing.
Additionally, I have obtained letters of support from neighboring property owners who were not present at the original hearing. [Number] of my immediate neighbors have expressed support for the project, demonstrating that community opposition is not as significant as initially appeared.
The variance request meets the legal standards for approval. The proposed use will not alter the essential character of the neighborhood, and the modifications ensure that any potential impacts are minimized. The hardship I face is unique to my property due to [describe specific hardship].
I request that the Board schedule a new hearing to consider the revised plans and additional community input. The modifications address all stated concerns while still allowing me to make reasonable use of my property.
Thank you for your consideration,
[Property owner name and contact information]
7. Motion for Reconsideration – Child Custody Decision
Subject: Motion for Reconsideration of Custody Order
[Family court address]
Dear Honorable Judge [Name],
I respectfully request that this Court reconsider the custody arrangement established in your order dated [Date]. Significant changes in circumstances have occurred since the original hearing that materially affect the best interests of our child.
Since the original custody order, the following changes have occurred: [list specific changes in circumstances]. Documentation supporting these changes is attached to this motion. The current custody arrangement no longer serves our child’s best interests given these new circumstances.
Our child has expressed [age-appropriate description of child’s preferences/needs]. Additionally, [other parent’s name] has [describe relevant changes in other parent’s situation]. The school has reported [relevant school information], which indicates that a modification would benefit our child’s educational progress.
I am not seeking to restrict the other parent’s time with our child, but rather to modify the schedule to better accommodate our child’s current needs. The proposed modification would [describe proposed changes] while maintaining meaningful contact with both parents.
I believe that a careful review of the current circumstances will demonstrate that the requested modification serves our child’s best interests. I respectfully request a hearing to present evidence of the changed circumstances.
Respectfully,
[Parent name and case number]
8. Motion for Reconsideration – Professional License Disciplinary Action
Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Professional License Disciplinary Action
[Professional licensing board address]
Dear Board Members,
I am writing to formally request reconsideration of the disciplinary action imposed against my professional license. The sanctions imposed are disproportionate to the alleged violations and fail to consider mitigating circumstances that were not adequately presented during the original proceedings.
The Board’s decision was based primarily on [describe basis for discipline]. However, the record does not reflect several key factors that significantly mitigate the circumstances. First, [describe first mitigating factor]. Second, [describe second mitigating factor]. Finally, my overall professional record demonstrates [positive aspects].
I have taken responsibility for my actions and have implemented comprehensive measures to prevent any recurrence. [Describe specific steps taken]. Additionally, I have completed [relevant training/education] that directly addresses the issues raised in the disciplinary action.
The imposed sanctions of [describe sanctions] are inconsistent with sanctions imposed in similar cases. Review of Board precedent shows that cases involving similar circumstances typically result in [describe typical sanctions]. The severity of the imposed sanctions appears to be an outlier.
I respectfully request that the Board reduce the sanctions to [proposed sanctions] which would be consistent with precedent and proportionate to the circumstances. My clients and the public are better served by allowing me to continue practicing under appropriate supervision rather than imposing sanctions that effectively end my career.
Professional regards,
[License holder name and license number]
9. Motion for Reconsideration – Tax Assessment Appeal
Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Property Tax Assessment
[Tax assessor’s office address]
Dear Property Tax Assessor,
I am writing to request formal reconsideration of the property tax assessment for my property located at [Property Address]. The current assessment of $[Amount] significantly exceeds the fair market value of my property and appears to be based on inaccurate information.
The assessment appears to overvalue my property for several reasons. First, the assessment fails to account for [specific property deficiencies or issues]. Second, comparable properties in my neighborhood are assessed at significantly lower amounts despite having similar or superior characteristics.
I have obtained a professional appraisal that establishes the fair market value of my property at $[Amount], which is $[Difference] less than the current assessment. The appraiser specifically noted [key findings from appraisal]. This appraisal was conducted using standard methodology and current market data.
Additionally, I have researched recent sales of comparable properties in my area. Properties at [addresses] sold for amounts that support a much lower valuation than my current assessment. The assessment appears to be inconsistent with actual market conditions.
I request that you review the assessment based on the appraisal and comparable sales data I have provided. A fair assessment based on current market conditions would result in a significant reduction in my property taxes.
Respectfully submitted,
[Property owner name and parcel number]
10. Motion for Reconsideration – Government Contract Award
Subject: Request for Reconsideration of Contract Award Decision
[Government contracting office address]
Dear Contracting Officer,
I am writing to formally request reconsideration of the decision to award Contract No. [Number] to [Winning Contractor]. Our company believes that significant errors were made in the evaluation process that resulted in an incorrect award decision.
The evaluation failed to properly consider our company’s superior qualifications in [specific areas]. Our proposal clearly demonstrated [specific advantages], but the evaluation summary does not reflect adequate consideration of factors. The scoring appears to have given insufficient weight to [important evaluation criteria].
Additionally, we believe that the winning proposal fails to meet mandatory requirements specified in the solicitation. Specifically, [describe specific requirement deficiencies]. Our review of the award decision indicates that factors were not properly evaluated according to the stated criteria.
Our company has [relevant experience/qualifications] that directly address the government’s needs. The contract award to a less qualified contractor will result in [potential negative consequences]. The government’s interests are best served by awarding this contract to the most qualified contractor.
I respectfully request that you suspend performance of the awarded contract pending a complete review of the evaluation and award decision. We are prepared to provide additional documentation that demonstrates our company’s superior qualifications for this important contract.
Sincerely,
[Company representative name and title]
Conclusion
The power of a well-written motion for reconsideration lies in its ability to present compelling reasons why an initial decision should be changed. Each letter above demonstrates different approaches depending on the context and the nature of the decision being challenged.
Success in reconsideration requests requires more than just expressing disagreement with a decision. You must present new evidence, demonstrate procedural errors, or show that the decision-maker failed to consider important factors. The most effective letters combine factual accuracy with persuasive reasoning while maintaining a respectful and professional tone.
Remember that reconsideration is not about relitigating the entire matter but rather about pointing out specific reasons why the initial decision was incorrect or incomplete. Focus on the strongest arguments and support them with concrete evidence. The goal is to give the decision-maker a clear path to reverse or modify their original decision while maintaining their credibility and authority.
Your success will depend on how well you can demonstrate that justice, fairness, or accuracy requires a different outcome than what was originally decided.