In California civil litigation, a demand letter is a formal written communication sent by one party to another, outlining a claim or grievance and requesting a specific action or remedy. The purpose of the letter is to notify the recipient of the issue and provide them with an opportunity to resolve the matter before formal litigation begins. A demand letter typically includes a clear statement of the facts, the legal basis for the claim, and a request for compensation or other relief. It may also provide a deadline for the recipient to respond or take action, often urging a resolution without the need for court involvement.
Sending a demand letter can help clarify the parties’ positions, making it easier to negotiate a settlement before resorting to more costly and time-consuming legal proceedings.