What happens if you ignore a legal letter?

What the Law Actually Says

A letter before action is a formal document sent before legal proceedings begin. It's required under the Pre-Action Protocols set out by the Civil Procedure Rules, which govern how civil disputes are handled in England and Wales. Courts expect both parties to make a genuine effort to resolve disputes before proceedings begin. If you ignore a letter before action and the matter goes to court, the judge may take a dim view of your failure to engage. If you don't respond and the claimant files a court claim, you'll receive a claim form from the court. You'll then have 14 days to respond. If you don't, the claimant can apply for a default judgment — a County Court Judgment (CCJ) issued in their favour without a hearing. A CCJ stays on your credit record for six years.

What This Means for You

If you receive a letter before action, the most important thing is to respond within the deadline given. You don't have to agree with the claim — you can dispute it, ask for more information, or propose a settlement. But you do need to respond in writing and keep a copy. If the amount is significant or the claim is complex, it's worth getting legal advice before you respond.

What To Do Next

• Read the letter carefully and note the deadline for response — don't let it pass without acting
• Respond in writing within the deadline, even if just to say you're seeking advice and need more time
• Seek legal advice if the amount is significant or the claim is complex
• Consider whether the claim has merit and whether a settlement or payment plan makes sense
• Keep a copy of your response and any further correspondence

Common Mistakes

• Ignoring the letter entirely and hoping it goes away — it won't, and a CCJ will follow
• Missing the response deadline, which significantly weakens your position
• Not keeping a copy of your response
• Assuming that responding means admitting the claim — it doesn't, you can dispute it
• Not knowing that a default judgment can be issued without a hearing if you don't respond