Someone copied your work without permission, and you want them to stop. Create a copyright infringement cease and desist letter free to start: name your work and theirs, set a deadline, preview free, then download as PDF or Word.
This page is already set up for copyright. Your copyright exists when you create an original work. Registration with the U.S. Copyright Office is not required for the letter, but it is required before a federal lawsuit and it unlocks statutory damages.
What is a copyright cease and desist letter?
It is a written demand that someone stop using your copyrighted work, remove infringing copies, and confirm they have done so. You identify your work, when you published it, how their material copies it, and what you want them to do by a deadline.
The letter puts them on notice. That matters if they keep using the work after they were told it was yours.
Describe the similarities clearly. "Chapters 2 through 5 copy my text nearly word for word" beats "they stole my idea."
When to send one
- Someone republished your photos, writing, music, video, or code
- A product or site copies substantial parts of your work
- You want the material taken down before you escalate
For some online hosting, a DMCA takedown notice to the host is a separate tool. This letter goes to the person or business using the work.
How to write it
Identify your work and theirs
Name both, give your publication date, and note a registration number if you have one.
Describe the copying
Say how close the match is and what parts overlap. Attach side-by-side examples as Exhibit A when you can.
Demand specific actions by a date
Common demands: remove the content, destroy copies, stop distributing it, and confirm in writing. Send by certified mail.
How it works on Doqu
- Answer questions about your work, the infringing copy, and your demands.
- Preview free before you download.
- Download as PDF or Word, sign, and send with proof of delivery.
Free to start; download when you are ready.
Related letters
Browse more in dispute and notice letters.
- Trademark Infringement Cease and Desist Letter: brand name or logo confusion
- Cease and Desist Letter: all letter types
Frequently asked questions
Copyright Infringement Cease and Desist Letter — other states
Browse copyright infringement cease and desist letter templates for other US states.
- Alabama
- Alaska
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- California
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- Connecticut
- Delaware
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- Hawaii
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- Illinois
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- Louisiana
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