What is a cease and desist letter?

A cease and desist letter is a formal written notification sent by a creditor or a debtor to the opposing party, demanding that the recipient "cease and desist" a certain activity or behavior. In Illinois, a cease and desist letter is typically used when a debtor has failed to make payments or comply with an agreement between the parties and the creditor is attempting to collect unpaid debts. A cease and desist letter outlines the particulars of the agreement and states a clear deadline for repayment. It also clearly warns the debtor that the creditor may take further action, such as filing a lawsuit or garnishing wages, if the debtor does not comply with the terms of the letter. Typically, a cease and desist letter also includes contact information for the creditor in the event the debtor wishes to discuss payment options or negotiate a repayment plan. The goal of sending a cease and desist letter is to bring the issue to the debtor’s attention and encourage him or her to take corrective action in order to avoid further legal action. A cease and desist letter should only be used for legitimate debt, as its use for attempting to collect a debt that is not owed or for harassing a debtor can be penalized by law.

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What is a cease and desist letter?

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