What if my lawyer responds too late to the opposing party's letter?

Questioner

I received a letter from the other party stating that I must respond by, for example, December 17, otherwise all costs incurred will be for my account. Now my lawyer only responded on December 23, does this have consequences?

Lawyer

Dear, it is not unusual for a counterparty to set a term. Since this term is often 'made up by yourself', 'not responding within this term' does not have to have consequences. However, it may be different, for example if there is a notice of default. It is therefore important to look at the nature of the term.