written notice
Definition
Written notice is a formal communication delivered in physical or digital writing that officially informs another party about something important, like a contract change, a dispute, or a deadline. Courts and contracts require written notice because it creates a paper trail that proves someone was actually told about something, unlike a phone call or verbal conversation that can be denied or forgotten.
Example
If your lease requires 30 days written notice before you move out, sending your landlord a text message likely does not count, but a dated letter delivered by certified mail almost certainly does.
Watch Out
Your contract may spell out exactly how written notice must be delivered, such as by certified mail or email to a specific address, and ignoring those details could mean your notice is treated as if you never sent it at all.
See which terms appear in your contract?
This definition is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult with a licensed attorney for legal guidance.