Knowledge Guide
How to Read a Solicitor’s Letter
Solicitors’ letters can look intimidating – long, formal and full of legal language. This guide helps you break them down, spot what really matters, and notice when something important is missing.
This guide explains how to understand and record communication. It is not legal advice and does not tell you how to run your case.
1. Start with the basics: who, when, what
Before worrying about the detail, check three simple things:
- Who is writing? (name, firm, role)
- When was it sent? (date on the letter and when you actually received it)
- What is the main purpose? (for example: update, request, decision, response to a complaint)
Write one sentence in your own words:
“This letter is mainly about…”
Add the letter to your Communication Log with the date and a short summary.
2. Separate facts, opinions and pressure
Many letters mix up facts, opinions and (sometimes) implied threats.
- Facts – dates, events, documents, amounts.
- Opinions – views, arguments (“we consider…”, “in our view…”).
- Pressure – “if you do not… then we may…”.
Focus on what can be checked rather than tone or emotion.
3. Look for what is missing or not answered
- Questions avoided rather than answered.
- Vague refusals with no explanation.
- Background repeated instead of addressing your point.
Record unanswered issues in your Risk & Issue Log.
4. Spot “fake apologies” and blame-shifting
Apologies that avoid responsibility often focus on feelings, not actions.
- “Sorry you feel…”
- “Apologies if there was inconvenience…”
Related Core Guidance
About this guide
This guide is published by to help consumers understand legal communications. It is general information, not legal advice.
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