It doesn’t matter if you’re being promised a raise at your part-time job, a return to class instead of suspension, or an early release from juvenile probation—if it affects your life or safety, it needs to be documented.
History teaches us that verbal promises are not enough. If it’s not written down, it can be denied, twisted, or forgotten. This is how harm happens.
This tool teaches you how to protect yourself by creating that record.
What Counts as “Getting It in Writing”
You don’t need a lawyer to create a formal contract. Getting something “in writing” can mean:
- An email confirming what was discussed.
- A text message restating what they offered you.
- A note you write yourself and ask them to co-sign.
- A screenshot of a message sent through an official school or court platform.
- A memo or letter handed to you during a meeting.
- A voice recording you take for yourself right after
What to Say
Here are ways to ask—clearly and confidently:
“Can you send me an email summarizing what we agreed on?”
“Would you mind putting that in writing so I can share it with my parent?”
“Just so I’m clear, can you message me the plan moving forward?”
“Can you confirm that over email before I make any decisions?”
If They Refuse?
That tells you everything you need to know.
If someone won’t put their promise in writing, you need to slow down. Take notes. Ask to pause. Talk with an adult you trust. Then document everything that happens after the conversation.
How to Document It Yourself
This is called confirmation documentation—your own written record of what was said.
Copy and Paste Template
If someone promised you something:
Subject: Confirming our conversation
Hi [Name],
I’m writing to confirm what we discussed today. You mentioned that [insert exactly what was promised], with plans for that to happen by [insert date or timeframe].
Please let me know if I misunderstood anything.
If you’re writing after a concerning situation:
Subject: Follow-up on today
Hi [Name],
I want to get in touch with you about something that happened today. At [location], I was [briefly describe what occurred—e.g., asked to leave class / searched / questioned / moved / disciplined / etc.] by [person or title]. I didn’t receive any written notes or explanation, so I’d appreciate a quick summary for my own understanding.
Thank you in advance.
Why This Works
When you document something in writing:
– You create a timestamped record
– You reduce the risk of false claims
– You show that you are paying attention
– You build early evidence—before things have the opportunity to escalate
You don’t need permission to protect yourself. Start by putting it in writing. Every time.