California Cease and Desist Letter Template

California rules built into this template

• Unfair competition: California's Unfair Competition Law (Cal. Bus. & Prof. Code § 17200 et seq.).
• Trade secrets: California Uniform Trade Secrets Act (Cal. Civ. Code § 3426 et seq.).
• Federal law: the Lanham Act (15 U.S.C. § 1125), the Copyright Act (17 U.S.C. § 501), and the Defend Trade Secrets Act (18 U.S.C. § 1836).

What the Cease and Desist Letter includes

1. Conduct at Issue
2. Our Rights
3. Actions Required
4. Deadline and Written Confirmation
5. Preservation of Evidence
6. If You Do Not Comply
7. Reservation of Rights
8. Response
9. Governing Law

Frequently asked questions

Is a cease and desist letter legally binding in California?

No. A cease and desist letter is a formal demand, not a court order. It puts the recipient on notice, sets a deadline, and creates a record that can support a later claim in California or federal court if the conduct continues.

Do I need a lawyer to send a cease and desist letter?

No. You can send it yourself. Keep the facts accurate, avoid threats of criminal prosecution, and keep a copy with proof of delivery. For high-stakes disputes, a lawyer should review it.

What is the difference between the Standard and Professional Cease and Desist Letter?

The Standard edition is a complete, state-aware Cease and Desist Letter for common situations. The Professional edition adds longer clause coverage, schedules, and optional modules for more complex matters. You can preview either edition free before you pay.

Cease and Desist Letter templates for other states

• Texas
• Florida
• New York
• Pennsylvania
• Illinois
• Ohio
• Georgia
• North Carolina
• Michigan
• All states and countries