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The Letter Before Small Claims Court Action is a crucial document in New Zealand's civil dispute resolution process, typically used when informal attempts to resolve a dispute have failed but before formal legal proceedings are initiated. This document is required to demonstrate to the Disputes Tribunal that reasonable attempts have been made to resolve the matter outside of court. It should clearly state the claim details, amount sought (up to the Tribunal's jurisdiction limit of NZD $30,000 or up to $50,000 if all parties agree), and provide a reasonable timeframe for response. The letter serves multiple purposes: it may prompt resolution without the need for tribunal proceedings, creates a formal record of the attempt to resolve the dispute, and can be used as evidence in subsequent proceedings to demonstrate reasonable conduct by the claimant.

1. Sender's Details: Full name, address, and contact information of the person making the claim

2. Recipient's Details: Full name, address, and contact information of the person or business being claimed against

3. Date: The date the letter is written

4. Subject Line: Clear indication that this is a Letter Before Disputes Tribunal Action and brief claim reference

5. Claim Details: Clear explanation of what happened, when it happened, and why the recipient is considered responsible

6. Legal Basis: Reference to relevant laws or contractual terms that support your claim

7. Amount Claimed: Specific amount being claimed and how this has been calculated

8. Previous Communication: Summary of previous attempts to resolve the dispute

9. Proposed Resolution: Clear statement of what you want the recipient to do to resolve the matter

10. Deadline: Specific deadline for response (typically 14 days) before Disputes Tribunal action will be initiated

11. Closing Statement: Statement indicating willingness to consider reasonable settlement offers and intention to proceed to Disputes Tribunal if no satisfactory response is received