If You Have A Consumer Complaint

If you have a consumer complaint, you have several options available. It is important to remember that by complaining, you are not only helping yourself, but you may be helping other consumers as well. Many frauds and scams continue because too few people take the time to complain. Your complaint to the retailer, merchant or other business may give them the opportunity to correct errors and keep customers happy. Complaints filed with public agencies help them identify problems in the marketplace that may need enforcement action. Filing a lawsuit to raise a consumer issue is sometimes the only way to have a systematic problem addressed. Various options for resolving complaints are listed below, read them carefully and decide which option is the best course of action for you.

 

 

          The Maryland Consumer Rights Coalition is providing this information on how to resolve a consumer dispute as a service to Maryland consumers. This information is intended for Maryland residents only and may not be accurate for residents of other states. This is general information, not legal advice. If you have a legal question, please contact an attorney in order to protect your rights. Every case is different and only an attorney can advise you on the proper way to proceed after reviewing the facts of your individual case.

Options for Dealing with Your Consumer Problem

  1. Complain Directly to the Business When you have a complaint against a business, the first step is to contact the business and try to resolve your dispute.  Look at this section for tips on resolving your consumer complaint, tips on drafting a complaint letter and a sample complaint letter.

  2. File A Complaint with a Public Agency or Non-profit Organization There are a number of public agencies that accept complaints from consumers and help to mediate those complaints. If you have been unable to resolve a complaint on your own, a complaint to a public or private agency is usually the next step to take. These organizations will generally not represent you in a lawsuit. Look at this section for a list of agencies and organizations that will help consumers resolve disputes.

  3. File a Small Claims Action in Court If you are unable to resolve your complaint with the business on your own or through an agency or organization, you may want to consider filing a small claim action.  You can file a small claim action if the amount in dispute is less than $2500.  See this section for more information on filing a small claim action.

  4. Consult an Attorney You may want to consult an attorney if the first two options are unsuccessful and the amount in dispute is more than the small claims limit ($2500). An attorney can advise you if it is worth pursing your case and what the pros and cons are of filing a case against the business. Many attorneys will provide a free or low cost initial consultation, after which you can determine whether to proceed with litigation. Look at this section for advice on finding an attorney and information on contacting legal services programs that provide free legal services to low- income individuals.