Cease and Desist Letter template

Free cease and desist letter template

A cease and desist letter is a formal notice demanding that an individual or organization immediately stop (cease) an activity that is allegedly infringing upon another's rights or causing harm, and not repeat (desist) it in the future. It serves as a direct warning that the recipient of the letter is required to cease the offending action or face potential legal consequences. 

Sometimes called a “demand letter” or a “stop harassment letter,” these notices are typically used to address commercial issues such as copyright infringement, harassment, or breaches of contract.

Our cease and desist letter template sets forth the sender's legal position, formally communicates the gravity of the situation, and ensures the recipient clearly understands the demand and the consequences of non-compliance.

Simply edit our template to include the necessary specifics like the infringing action, legal grounds, and compliance deadline. When you are ready, you can download, print, or use Docusign to securely sign and send the letter digitally. To get going on your cease and desist, click on the template below:

Our cease and desist letter template  streamlines the process of asserting and communicating your legal rights and ensures your actions are properly documented. Ready to act with confidence? Get started with a free Docusign account today.

What is a cease and desist letter?

A cease and desist letter is a formal written demand instructing someone to stop engaging in conduct that allegedly violates your rights. It's commonly used to address issues like intellectual property infringement, defamation, harassment, or breach of contract. Although the letter itself isn’t legally enforceable, it serves as strong evidence if legal action follows—courts may view it as formal notification of wrongdoing.

When do you need a cease and desist letter?

You should consider sending a cease and desist letter in situations such as:

• Alleged intellectual property violations—like unauthorized use of copyrighted works, trademarks, or patents

• Defamation, including slander or libel that harms reputation

• Harassment, including unfair business conduct or repeated unwanted contact

• Contract violations—such as non-compete breaches or unauthorized use of trade secrets

It’s often used as a first step to resolve disputes quickly and cost-effectively, before escalating to legal proceedings.

What is included in a cease and desist letter?

To create an effective cease and desist letter, make sure it includes the following elements:

• Clear identification of parties: Include the sender’s and recipient’s full legal names and contact information.

• Date: State the date the letter is issued.

• Description of the unlawful activity: Clearly describe the specific behavior or activity that is being challenged, including dates and details.

• Legal basis: Reference the law, regulation, or contractual provision being violated (e.g., copyright law, defamation statutes, etc.).

• Demand to cease and desist: Explicitly instruct the recipient to stop the specified conduct immediately.

• Time frame for compliance: Specify a reasonable period for the recipient to comply (like 10 business days).

• Consequences for non-compliance: State the potential legal actions that will be pursued if the recipient fails to comply.

• Reservation of rights: Affirm that you are not waiving any legal rights by sending the letter.

• Signature: Include the sender’s or representative’s signature and printed name/title.

Additional (optional) provisions

While not required, the following sections may strengthen your position or clarify expectations:

• Remedial actions: Request specific actions beyond cessation, such as removal of content, return of property, or written confirmation of compliance.

• Governing law: Specify which jurisdiction’s laws govern the dispute.

• No admission of liability: State that sending the letter is not an admission of liability or wrongdoing.

• Contact information for resolution: Provide a means for the recipient to respond or negotiate.

• Request for written assurance: Ask for a written statement confirming cessation of the activity.