According to the Civil Procedure Rules, within how many days must a letter of claim from a third party be acknowledged?

The correct answer is 21 days. According to the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR), once a letter of claim is received from a third party, it is essential for the recipient to acknowledge it within a specified timeframe. The 21-day period is stipulated to provide a clear and structured response timeline and to ensure that all parties involved in the claim are given an adequate opportunity to address the claims being made. This time frame helps promote efficient dispute resolution and minimizes delays in the claims handling process.

Acknowledging the letter within this period allows the recipient to formally recognize the communication and indicates their intention to engage with the claim, setting the stage for any necessary dialogue or further action. Timely acknowledgment is also critical for demonstrating compliance with procedural rules, which may influence subsequent legal proceedings or negotiations.