A declination letter states that the professional will not represent the person, returns any documents provided, notes that no opinion on the merits is offered, and advises the recipient to consult other counsel promptly regarding any deadlines.
It should issue promptly after the consultation.
Alternative Names:
Non-Engagement Letter, Letter Declining Representation
Why it Matters?
The limitations warning is the provision that prevents the most damaging version of these claims, since a person who consulted a lawyer and then missed a filing deadline may assert they relied on the lawyer to act. Advising the recipient that time limits may apply and that they should consult other counsel promptly addresses that directly. Prompt issuance matters because delay itself suggests the lawyer was considering the matter.
Frequently Confused with
Frequently asked questions
What should a declination letter include?
Why does timing matter?
