If you’re suffering from harassment, sending this letter is one way to protect yourself from your violator. Below, we provide a strongly worded template to help you make an effective demand.

The letter warns your harasser to end their repeated, unwanted behavior because it’s uncomfortable, threatening, or offensive.

Table of Contents

• Common Uses of a cease Harassment Letter
• Is a Harassment Letter Legally Enforceable?
• How to Write a Cease and Desist Letter for Harassment
• How to Send a Cease and Desist Harassment Letter?
• Additional steps to include in Cease and Desist Harassment Letter
• FAQs on Cease and Desist Harassment Letter
• What is a cease and desist harassment letter?
• When should I consider sending a cease and desist harassment letter?
• Is a cease and desist harassment letter legally enforceable?
• What should be included in a cease and desist harassment letter?
• Can I send a cease and desist harassment letter without consulting an attorney?
• Sample Cease and Desist Harassment Letter

Common Uses of a cease Harassment Letter

A cease and desist harassment letter is a formal written communication used to demand that an individual or entity stop engaging in harassing behavior. Here are common uses of such a letter in eight steps:

1. Identify the Harassment:

• Clearly identify the specific harassing behavior or conduct that you want to stop. Be specific about the incidents, dates, and any relevant evidence.

2. Consult with an Attorney (Optional):

• While not always necessary, it can be helpful to consult with an attorney experienced in harassment or civil law to ensure that your letter is legally sound.

3. Draft the Letter:

• Begin drafting the cease and desist harassment letter. Include your name and contact information, the recipient's name and contact information, and a clear subject line indicating the purpose of the letter.

4. Describe the Harassment:

• Detail the harassing behavior, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses if applicable. Explain why the behavior is unwanted and how it has affected you.

5. Demand Immediate Cessation:

• Clearly and firmly demand that the recipient immediately cease the harassing behavior. Use strong and assertive language in this section.

6. Set Consequences:

• Specify the consequences if the harassment continues. Mention that you are prepared to take legal action, such as pursuing a restraining order or filing a lawsuit, if necessary.

7. Request Confirmation:

• Ask the recipient to confirm in writing that they have received the letter and that they understand and intend to comply with its demands.

8. Deliver the Letter:

• Send the letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested or through a reliable method that provides proof of delivery. Keep a copy of the letter and any delivery confirmation for your records.

9. Consult with Law Enforcement (If Necessary):

• If the harassment involves criminal behavior, such as threats or stalking, consider reporting it to law enforcement. Provide them with a copy of the cease and desist letter as part of your documentation.

10. Monitor the Situation:

• After sending the letter, monitor the recipient's behavior. If the harassment persists or escalates, consult with your attorney to explore further legal remedies, such as obtaining a restraining order or pursuing a lawsuit.

11. Seek Legal Assistance (If Needed):

• If the harassment continues despite the cease and desist letter, consult with your attorney to discuss potential legal actions, including obtaining a restraining order, filing a lawsuit, or pursuing criminal charges if applicable.

It's important to remember that the effectiveness of a cease and desist harassment letter depends on the willingness of the recipient to comply with its demands. In some cases, the letter may lead to a resolution, while in others, further legal action may be necessary to protect your rights and well-being. Consulting with an attorney is advisable to ensure that your rights are protected and that you take appropriate legal steps if the harassment persists.

Is a Harassment Letter Legally Enforceable?

A harassment letter, often in the form of a cease and desist letter, is not a legally enforceable document in and of itself. It does not have the power of law behind it, and it cannot compel the recipient to comply with its demands. However, a harassment letter serves several important legal purposes:

1. Notification of Intent: It formally notifies the recipient of your intent to take legal action if the harassment continues. It acts as a warning that legal consequences may follow if the behavior does not cease.

2. Preservation of Evidence: Sending the letter creates a record and serves as evidence that you took steps to address the harassment in a lawful manner. This documentation can be valuable if legal action becomes necessary.

3. Documentation of Communication: It documents the communication between you and the harasser, which can be important for establishing a timeline of events and demonstrating your efforts to resolve the issue peacefully.

4. Setting Boundaries: It clearly communicates your boundaries and expectations regarding the behavior you want to stop. In some cases, recipients may comply with the demands in the letter to avoid legal action.

5. Encouraging Resolution: A well-drafted harassment letter can encourage the recipient to reconsider their actions and seek a resolution to the dispute. In some cases, it may lead to a cessation of the harassment.

While a harassment letter itself is not legally enforceable, its effectiveness depends on the recipient's willingness to comply with its demands. If the harassment continues despite the letter, you may need to consider legal remedies, such as pursuing a restraining order, filing a lawsuit, or involving law enforcement, depending on the nature of the harassment and applicable laws in your jurisdiction.

It's essential to consult with an attorney when drafting and sending a harassment letter to ensure that it is legally sound and to discuss further legal options if the harassment persists. An attorney can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you navigate the legal process effectively.

How to Write a Cease and Desist Letter for Harassment

Writing a cease and desist letter for harassment is a formal way to demand that an individual or entity stop engaging in harassing behavior. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to write such a letter:

1. Use a Professional Format:

• Format the letter professionally, including your contact information (name, address, phone number) at the top. Include the date as well.

2. Identify the Recipient:

• Address the letter to the individual or entity responsible for the harassment. Be sure to use their correct legal name and address.

3. State the Subject Clearly:

• In the subject line or as the opening sentence, clearly state the purpose of the letter, such as "Cease and Desist Harassment."

4. Describe the Harassment:

• Provide a detailed description of the harassing behavior or conduct, including dates, times, locations, and any witnesses. Be factual and specific.

5. Explain Why the Harassment is Unwanted:

• Explain why the behavior is unwanted, harmful, or disruptive. Describe how it has affected you physically, emotionally, or financially.

6. Demand Immediate Cessation:

• Clearly and firmly demand that the recipient immediately cease and desist from all forms of harassment. Use strong and assertive language in this section.

7. Set Consequences:

• Specify the consequences if the harassment continues. Mention that you are prepared to take legal action, such as pursuing a restraining order, filing a lawsuit, or involving law enforcement, if necessary.

8. Request Confirmation:

• Ask the recipient to confirm in writing that they have received the letter and that they understand and intend to comply with its demands. Include a deadline for their response.

9. Maintain a Professional Tone:

• While it's important to be firm, maintain a professional and respectful tone throughout the letter. Avoid using offensive language or making threats.

10. Keep Copies and Proof of Delivery:

• Make copies of the letter for your records and keep track of the delivery method. Send the letter via certified mail with a return receipt requested or through a reliable method that provides proof of delivery.

11. Consult with an Attorney (Optional):

• If you are unsure about the legal aspects or potential consequences, consider consulting with an attorney experienced in harassment or civil law to review and guide you in drafting the letter.

12. Maintain Documentation:

• Keep records of all communication related to the harassment, including the cease and desist letter, any responses, and any incidents that occur after sending the letter.

13. Seek Legal Assistance (If Needed):

• If the harassment persists despite the cease and desist letter, consult with your attorney to explore further legal remedies, such as obtaining a restraining order, filing a lawsuit, or pursuing criminal charges if applicable.

Remember that the effectiveness of a cease and desist harassment letter depends on the recipient's willingness to comply with its demands. In some cases, the letter may lead to a resolution, while in others, further legal action may be necessary to protect your rights and well-being. An attorney can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you navigate the legal process effectively.

How to Send a Cease and Desist Harassment Letter?

Sending a cease and desist harassment letter involves several steps to ensure it reaches the recipient and serves its intended purpose effectively. Here's a concise guide in eight steps:

1. Draft the Cease and Desist Letter:

• Write a clear and concise cease and desist harassment letter that includes your contact information, a description of the harassment, a demand for cessation, consequences, and a request for confirmation.

2. Make Copies:

• Create multiple copies of the signed letter for your records.

3. Secure Delivery Method:

• Choose a secure delivery method to ensure the letter reaches the recipient safely. Certified mail with a return receipt requested is a commonly used method because it provides proof of delivery.

4. Address the Envelope:

• Address the envelope to the recipient using their correct legal name and address.

5. Include a Cover Letter (Optional):

• If desired, include a brief cover letter that introduces the cease and desist letter and explains its purpose. Keep it concise and professional.

6. Mail the Letter:

• Place the cease and desist letter and, if applicable, the cover letter, in the envelope. Seal the envelope and affix any necessary postage. Mail the letter using the chosen secure delivery method.

7. Retain Proof of Delivery:

• Keep all receipts, tracking numbers, and confirmation records from the delivery method you selected. These documents serve as proof that the letter was sent and received.

8. Monitor for a Response:

• After sending the letter, monitor for a response from the recipient. They may choose to respond, comply with the letter's demands, or ignore it.

If the harassment persists or if you do not receive a response, consider consulting with an attorney experienced in harassment or civil law to discuss further legal remedies. Continue to maintain records of all related incidents and communications, as these records may be essential if you need to pursue legal action.

Additional steps to include in Cease and Desist Harassment Letter

In addition to the core steps involved in sending a cease and desist harassment letter, here are some additional points to consider including in the letter to enhance its effectiveness:

1. Attach Evidence:

• If you have any evidence supporting your claims of harassment, consider attaching relevant documents, screenshots, or other proof to the cease and desist letter. This can strengthen your case.

2. Specify a Deadline:

• Clearly specify a reasonable deadline by which the recipient must respond or cease the harassing behavior. This adds a sense of urgency and helps establish a timeline for compliance.

3. Describe Legal Remedies:

• Explain briefly the legal remedies available to you if the harassment continues. Mention that you are prepared to pursue these remedies if necessary, which can serve as a deterrent.

4. Include a No-Contact Demand:

• Request that the recipient refrain from any form of contact with you, whether in person, by phone, through email, or via social media, as part of their compliance with the cease and desist letter.

5. Seek an Apology or Retraction (If Appropriate):

• Depending on the circumstances, you may consider requesting a formal written apology or a public retraction of defamatory statements as part of the cease and desist letter.

6. Consult an Attorney:

• If you're uncertain about the legal aspects of your situation or the wording of the letter, consult with an attorney experienced in harassment or civil law. They can review and advise you on the content of the letter.

7. Include a Statement of Non-Admission:

• Clarify in the letter that sending the cease and desist letter is not an admission of any wrongdoing on your part. You are merely seeking to protect your rights and put an end to the harassment.

8. Keep a Respectful Tone:

• While it's important to be firm, maintain a respectful tone throughout the letter. Avoid using aggressive language or making threats.

9. Maintain Records:

• Continue to maintain thorough records of all related incidents, communications, and any responses to the cease and desist letter. These records can be crucial if further legal action becomes necessary.

10. Proof of Delivery and Receipt:

• Keep all documentation related to the delivery of the cease and desist letter, including receipts, tracking numbers, and any confirmation of receipt from the recipient.

By including these additional elements in your cease and desist harassment letter, you can make it more comprehensive and compelling. Remember that the effectiveness of the letter depends on the recipient's willingness to comply with its demands, but a well-drafted and documented letter can be a crucial step in addressing harassment. If the harassment persists, consult with an attorney to explore further legal remedies.

FAQs on Cease and Desist Harassment Letter

What is a cease and desist harassment letter?

A cease and desist harassment letter is a formal written communication that demands an individual or entity stop engaging in harassing behavior. It serves as a warning and outlines the consequences if the harassment continues.

When should I consider sending a cease and desist harassment letter?

You may consider sending such a letter when you are experiencing persistent harassment, whether in the workplace, personal life, online, or in other contexts. It is typically a proactive step to address and resolve the issue before resorting to legal action.

Is a cease and desist harassment letter legally enforceable?

The letter itself is not legally enforceable, but it serves important purposes. It formally notifies the recipient of your intent to take legal action if the harassment continues and can be used as evidence in court if further legal action becomes necessary.

What should be included in a cease and desist harassment letter?

A cease and desist harassment letter should include your contact information, a clear description of the harassment, a demand for cessation, consequences if the harassment continues, and a request for written confirmation of receipt.

Can I send a cease and desist harassment letter without consulting an attorney?

While it is not a legal requirement to consult an attorney, seeking legal advice can be beneficial. An attorney can ensure that the letter is legally sound and can guide you through the process.

Sample Cease and Desist Harassment Letter