buildmyevidence · guide
A letter arrived about something you didn't know was a problem.
It might be from a landlord, a neighbor, an HOA, an employer, a collector or a lawyer. It's about something that happened weeks or months ago, and it's someone else's version of it. You didn't choose the timeline. The first week is about getting your footing, not settling the argument.
The first week, step by step
- Write down the date it arrived, and how: mail, email, handed to you.
- Read it twice, then once more the next day. Note any date in it by which they want something.
- Write down what it actually says you did, in its words. Not what it implies.
- Don't reply in anger, and don't reply on the phone. If you reply at all this week, keep it short: you've received it, and you'll answer.
- If it's unclear what's being said, ask. In writing, exactly what they mean, and on which dates.
- Start gathering what you already have. See The record you already have.
What to keep
The letter itself, the envelope or email it came in, every reply you send and the date it went, and a note of any call.
The letters for this
One to acknowledge it and say when you'll answer (“Acknowledge, and say when you'll answer”), and one to ask exactly what is being said (“Ask exactly what is being said”). Each fills in the facts from your record. When you send one, it goes back into the record with its date.
Related
This guide is general information and is not legal advice. Laws vary by location. For advice about your situation, consult a qualified lawyer.