Can i get relif from late fee towards late filing of st-3

Hi friends,

     One of my friend's  organisation registered under service Tax Act and it was very small service Organisation. In 2012 they filied ST-3 return 5 months lately. For that department rised a demand notice for Rs.13000-00. But actually the service tax paid during that period  Rs.5000-00 only.  So friends please tell me, can we request department to provide relif from payment of late fee.

   If possible please provide the procedure and formate of letter to submitting to ST depratment.

Thank you friends