A Letter of Demand is a formal document that is typically used as a means of advising someone else of an outstanding debt. This could be a debt relating to a court order, an invoice, or any other type of financial obligation. A Letter of Demand is the last step before legal action is taken and should not be taken lightly. If you receive a Letter of Demand regarding a debt, it is important to take the necessary steps to address the issue.
Firstly, it is important to read the letter carefully and make sure that the debt reasonably relates to you. In many cases, the debt is associated with an old address or creditor, and it is possible that you are no longer legally liable for the debt. If this is the case, make sure to inform the creditor in writing and provide any necessary evidence to support your claim. If you think it could be a scam, tread carefully.
If the debt stated in the Letter of Demand is yours, then you must contact the creditor and make an agreement on how to proceed best. Negotiating a payment plan that you can realistically manage is important, as this may be sufficient to resolve the matter without legal action. Make sure to get any terms in writing and keep copies of all communication between you and the creditor.
If an agreement is not reached or negotiations break down, it is important to seek advice from a qualified legal advisor. A lawyer can assess your situation and guide you on the most suitable action. Depending on the nature of the debt and the amount owed, it may be beneficial to dispute the debt in court. However, it is important to note that this can be expensive and time-consuming. In some cases, it may be best to look into additional options such as debt settlement or consumer credit counselling.
If you receive a Letter of Demand in Australia, taking the necessary steps to protect your rights and address the debt is essential. It is important to read the letter carefully, determine whether you genuinely owe the debt, seek legal advice and negotiate with the creditor. With a thorough approach, it is possible to address the deficit and resolve the issue without resorting to legal action.