Home » Business & Finance » Consumer Advocacy » They're From the Government & They're Here to Help

They're From the Government & They're Here to Help

© Dale Hartley

[This week's article is by contributing writer Barbara Woodcox, except for the last three paragraphs, which were added by yours truly.]

You're involved in a dispute with a company. You contacted the company to get the situation resolved, but were met with hostility, indifference, or empty promises. You tried everything and are beginning to feel that you have no recourse. What should you do? Hire an attorney? Attorney services are very expensive and most people can't afford it. Are there any alternatives to shelling out big bucks to an attorney? Yes!!

Put your tax dollars to work and file a complaint with your state Attorney General's office. Here's what to do:

Obtain a complaint form (most Attorney Generals have web sites and you can print the complaint form instantly). Complete all sections of the form EXCEPT the description of your complaint. In that section of the form write "See Attached Letter." Then write a letter (preferably one page) that contains the following information:

1. The nature of the complaint (what the dispute is about).
2. What you did to try to resolve the situation.
3. The responses you received from the company when you attempted to resolve the dispute.
4. What you think the company should do to correct the problem.

Send your letter and the complaint form along with copies of any documentation that supports your position (send copies, not the originals).

Here's a way to add extra impact to your complaint! At the bottom of your complaint letter write "CC: Federal Trade Commission and [insert name of company]." Then send a copy of the complaint letter to the Federal Trade Commission and to the company with which you are in dispute. This shows that you're on the level and have nothing to hide. It also shows the company that you mean business!

Follow up is important. If you don't hear anything from your Attorney General's office within 30 days, call to check the status of your complaint (ask if they received your complaint and if a consumer protection specialist been assigned to your case). Then wait another 30 days and if you don't hear anything from them, call to ask if there's any additional information they need from you. It usually takes up to 90 days for your Attorney General's office to fully process your complaint.

Of course, there's no guarantee that a complaint to the AG will produce exactly the results you want. The AG's staff may find that the dispute is a civil matter between you and the company, which means you either quit now, or take the company to court. In the event of fraud or criminal conduct, they may advise you that it's a local matter and refer you to your sheriff, district attorney, or other enforcement agency.