In short: a legal notice is a formal written demand, usually sent by an advocate, telling the other side what you claim and giving a deadline before you go to court. It is mandatory in some cases, such as cheque bounce (30 days), suits against the government (two months) and ending a tenancy. If you receive one, do not ignore it: reply in writing within the time given, denying what is wrong, because your silence can be used against you.
When a legal notice is required
- Cheque bounce: within 30 days of the return memo. See cheque bounce.
- Suits against the government or a public officer: two months' notice under Section 80 of the Code of Civil Procedure.
- Ending a tenancy: a notice to quit under the Transfer of Property Act or state rent law.
- Insolvency against a company: a demand notice under Section 8 of the IBC.
- In other disputes it is not compulsory, but it usually helps: many matters settle at this stage.
What a legal notice should contain
- The names and addresses of both sides.
- The facts in date order, with the documents relied on.
- The legal basis of the claim.
- The demand: payment, performance, an apology, removal of content, or vacating property.
- A clear deadline (commonly 15 or 30 days) and what will follow if it is not met.
Send it by registered or speed post with acknowledgement, and by email or WhatsApp where the other side uses them; keep the receipts and tracking records.
If you receive a legal notice
- Note the deadline and gather your documents.
- Reply in writing, denying incorrect facts point by point and stating your side.
- Do not admit liability in an informal message or call.
- Consider whether settlement makes sense before the matter reaches court.
Questions people ask
Is it necessary to send a legal notice before filing a case?
Only in some cases, such as cheque bounce, suits against the government, and ending tenancies. Otherwise it is optional but often useful.
What happens if I ignore a legal notice?
The sender may file a case, and your failure to reply can be used to suggest you had no answer. In cheque bounce cases, not paying within 15 days completes the offence.
How long do I have to reply to a legal notice?
The time stated in the notice, usually 15 or 30 days. Even if late, a reply is better than none.
Can a legal notice be sent by WhatsApp or email?
Courts have accepted notices sent by email and WhatsApp as valid service, especially with proof of delivery. Sending by post as well is safest.
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Become a ClientCall +91 81001 21141This guide gives general information about the law in India as on 11 November 2026. It is not legal advice for your situation, and reading it does not create a lawyer-client relationship. Rules and limits change; please take advice on your own facts.