Cease and Desist (Defamation)

This Cease and Desist (Defamation) letter is specifically designed for use in defamation of character claims, writing on behalf of a business or individual who has been the subject of defamation, slander or libel.

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Last updated January 13, 2025

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Suitable for Australia

Cease and Desist (Defamation)

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What is a cease and desist (defamation)?

A cease and desist (defamation) is a formal letter requesting someone to stop making false or damaging statements about you or your business. It warns of possible legal action if the defamatory conduct continues.
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When should you use a cease and desist (defamation)?

Use this letter when you or your business have been harmed by false statements, slander, or libel. It is suitable for both online and offline defamation affecting your reputation or business interests.
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What should be in a cease and desist (defamation)?

It should outline the defamatory conduct, request removal of harmful content, ask for details of publication, and seek a written apology. It also warns of legal consequences if the conduct does not stop.
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Frequently asked questions

Who can use this letter?

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What protections does this letter provide?

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Does sending this letter guarantee the defamation will stop?

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Can this letter be used for online defamation?

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What actions can you request in the letter?

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What are the limitations of using this document?

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What should you do after sending the letter?

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View Sample Cease and Desist (Defamation)

Cease and Desist (Defamation)
risk level indicator at Low level

The Legal Risk Score of a Cease and Desist (Defamation) Template is Low

Our legal team have marked this document as low risk considering:

  • The document demands several actions from the recipient, including ceasing publication of statements and issuing an apology, which could be perceived as onerous or difficult to comply with without clear guidance on how these should be executed.
  • The document includes a warning of potential legal action if the demands are not met, which could escalate the situation and lead to legal disputes that might require substantial time and resources to resolve.

Meet Our Users

Articles about Cease and Desist (Defamation)

5 Situations to Use a Cease and Desist Letter
By Jennifer Wang|Nov 26, 2025

5 Situations to Use a Cease and Desist Letter

When “stop” isn’t enough: ways to effectively use a Cease and Desist Letter.

What Is Defamation?
By Carmen Zhu|Oct 5, 2016

What Is Defamation?

What is defamation? What is considered defamation? What defences are available? 

Why a Lawyer Should Send Your Cease & Desist
By Ananya Singh|Dec 4, 2025

Why a Lawyer Should Send Your Cease & Desist

Read about why it might be a good idea to hire a lawyer instead of writing the letter yourself.

How Can I Prove if Someone Has Defamed Me?
By Eric Zhang|Jun 6, 2019

How Can I Prove if Someone Has Defamed Me?

Defamation can cause real damage to not only your reputation, but also your livelihood. Read this article to find out what's needed for you to prove it.

How to Respond to a Cease and Desist Letter (2025 Update)
By Sharlene Han|May 14, 2025

How to Respond to a Cease and Desist Letter (2025 Update)

Receiving a Cease and Desist Letter can be highly concerning. Find out in this article how to respond to a Cease and Desist Letter.

What Is Qualified Privilege?
By Tom Willis|May 17, 2019

What Is Qualified Privilege?

Defamation cases are on the increase, particularly with social media. Find out about qualified privilege, a defence available for defendants.

What to Do If Another Business Defames You
By Tom Willis|Dec 4, 2025

What to Do If Another Business Defames You

Defamation can occur between businesses. Find out in this article what to do if you've been defamed by another business.

Why You should use a Cease and Desist Letter
By Anthony Fong|Feb 9, 2016

Why You should use a Cease and Desist Letter

Explore some situations when you should be using a cease and desist letter.

What Can I Do If I Have Been Defamed?
By Carmen Zhu|Oct 5, 2016

What Can I Do If I Have Been Defamed?

Do think someone may have defamed you? Read this article to understand how defamation works and what you can do about it.

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