Civil Rights Demand Letter Template

[Date]

[VIA CERTIFIED MAIL / EMAIL]

[Recipient Name]
[Title]
[Agency/Organization]
[Address]

Re: Demand to Remedy Civil Rights Violations – [Client Name]

Dear [Recipient Name],

1. Introduction

We represent [Client Name], who has experienced unlawful discrimination and violations of federal and state civil rights laws by [Entity/Individual]. This letter serves as formal notice and demand for immediate corrective action.

2. Factual Background

• On [Date], [Client Name] [describe incident].
• Individuals involved: [Names/Titles].
• Discriminatory conduct included [harassment, denial of services, excessive force].
• Client has suffered [emotional distress, financial losses, physical injuries].

3. Legal Violations

• 42 U.S.C. § 1983 – deprivation of rights under color of law.
• [Title VII/Title IX/ADA/Fair Housing Act/State Civil Rights Statutes].
• [Local ordinances or policies].

4. Demands

We demand that [Entity/Individual]:
1. Cease and desist from discriminatory practices immediately.
2. Provide written assurance of compliance and remedial measures by [Date].
3. Compensate our client in the amount of $[Amount] for damages, including emotional distress, medical expenses, lost wages, and attorneys’ fees.
4. Implement policy changes, training, and monitoring to prevent recurrence, including [specific reforms].
5. Preserve all evidence relevant to this matter (documents, video, electronic communications) to avoid spoliation.

5. Response Deadline

Please respond in writing within [Number] days from the date of this letter. Failure to respond or resolve this matter will leave us no choice but to pursue all available legal remedies, including filing suit in federal court seeking injunctive relief, damages, and attorneys’ fees.

6. Settlement Discussions

We remain open to discussing resolution options, including mediation, provided meaningful steps are taken promptly to address the violations.

7. Reservation of Rights

Our client reserves all rights and remedies. Nothing in this letter constitutes a waiver of claims or acceptance of any defenses.

8. Contact Information

Direct responses to [Attorney Name], [Firm], [Phone], [Email].

Sincerely,

[Attorney Name]
[Title]
[Law Firm Name]
[Address]
[Phone]
[Email]

Cc: [Client Name] (optional)
Enclosures: [Evidence summary, witness list, medical records] (if applicable)