What to Do If Your Demand Letter Gets Ignored
You used JusticeDirect to send a free demand letter, and you expected the other person to respond. But they didn’t. Now you’re stuck wondering, What do I do next? You still have options.
Here are the next steps you can take if your free demand letter didn’t get a response:
1. Have an Attorney Send a Letter
Letters from lawyers often carry more weight. Even if your original letter was strong, some people don’t take it seriously unless it comes from a law firm. You can hire an attorney in your state and ask them to send a demand letter on their law firm’s letterhead.
If you or the person you're dealing with is in California, Arizona, New York, or Washington, D.C. — or the problem happened in one of those places — we can help. We can send a professional Attorney Demand Letter on your behalf. These letters often get more attention and can lead to quicker results. If you need help in other states, here is our guide on how to find a lawyer.
2. Consider Filing a Lawsuit in Small Claims Court
It’s frustrating when your demand letter gets ignored — but it wasn’t a waste of time. In fact, sending a demand letter often opens a new path to legal action. In many states, you’re required to make a formal demand before you can file a lawsuit, and your demand letter proves you did that.
Even if the other person doesn’t respond, that silence can actually help your case. It shows the court that you gave them a fair chance to fix the problem — and they chose not to.
If the amount of money you’re asking for is within your state’s small claims court limit, filing a lawsuit in small claims court might be your best next step. Small claims court is designed to be affordable, straightforward, and often doesn’t require a lawyer. It’s a powerful way to keep moving forward when the other side refuses to engage.
Small claims courts are meant to be easy and affordable. You don’t need a lawyer, and in some states, lawyers aren't even allowed in court. These courts handle things like:
- Unpaid debts
- Damaged property
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Broken contracts
If you’re thinking about small claims court, check out our 50-State Guide to Small Claims Court to learn the rules in your state.
And if your case is in California or New York, JusticeDirect Law Firm LLC can help you file your small claims lawsuit. If you need help in other states, here is our guide on how to find a lawyer.
3. Report the Person or Business
Depending on your situation, you might be able to file a complaint with a government agency or nonprofit organization.
For example:
- Consumer complaints: Report the business to your state’s consumer protection agency or the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
- Workplace or landlord issues: Contact your state labor board or housing agency.
- Scams or fraud: File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) or your state attorney general.
Some agencies may investigate or even contact the other person for you.
4. Keep Records of Everything
While you go through this process, save copies of your letters, emails, texts, receipts, and any proof that supports your side of the story. If you do end up going to court or talking to a lawyer, these records will be important.
Final Thoughts
It’s frustrating when someone ignores your demand letter. But you have options — from sending an attorney-drafted demand letter, to reporting them, to going to court.
Need help taking the next step? Email us at support@justicedirect.com.