Cease and Desist Letter

Definition

A formal demand letter threatening legal action if the recipient doesn't stop some activity immediately. It's basically a lawyer's way of saying 'stop it or else' with more gravitas.

Example Usage

We received a cease and desist letter from their legal team over the trademark infringement.

Origin

19th century legal correspondence practice

Fun Fact

Despite the official tone, cease and desist letters have no binding legal force—they're just a warning shot

Source: General legal practice terminology

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