Why legal notices matter
A legal notice puts the other side on formal notice of your claim. It often opens the door to settlement, and in many cases a court will look at what was said in it.
Statutory notices
- Section 80 CPC — two months’ notice before suing the government or a public officer
- Section 138 NI Act — demand notice within 30 days of cheque dishonour
- Notices under tenancy, consumer and other special laws
What a good notice contains
- Correct names and addresses of the parties
- A clear, chronological statement of facts
- The legal basis of the claim
- The specific demand and a reasonable time to comply
- Signature of the sender or advocate, and proof of dispatch
Replying to a notice
Not every notice legally requires a reply, but an unanswered notice may later be used to suggest that its contents were not disputed. A measured reply, without unnecessary admissions, is usually sensible.
Common mistakes
- Exaggerated or inconsistent facts that later damage your case
- Wrong addresses or no proof of delivery
- Missing statutory time limits
- Threats that could amount to an offence
About the author
Advocate Vivekanand
Founder & Principal Advocate, Vivekanand Law Firm · MA (English), MBA, LL.B., Author. Full profile
This article is general legal information, not legal advice. It does not create an advocate–client relationship. Legal provisions referred to should be verified for your specific situation and the date of the events concerned.