Process for Filing a Consumer Complaint

Updated on September 03, 2024 08:07:12 AM

Consumer Complaint is an essential right that aids in protecting consumers from any unlawful activities. Most of the time when a consumer buys something and they do not get that product or service as was promised to be, at this moment they have the complete right to be compensated by the seller.

However, every consumer should have complete information regarding the Consumer complaint. In this article, we will discuss the Consumer and step-wise process for filing Consumer Complaint that will help you to save yourself from illegal activities done by sellers.

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Who are Consumers?

A consumer is someone who purchases goods or services for their own use rather than for resale or marketing. It is essential that the consumer has made a payment or maybe promised to pay for the product or service. Consumers must be users or beneficiaries. Consumers cannot file a Consumer Complaint for compensation if they receive free goods or services.

Understanding the Consumer Complaint

A consumer Complaint is a legitimate complaint filed by the Consumer in case of not getting a suitable product or service that was paid to be. Under Consumer Protection Act 1986, Consumers have the right to file a Consumer complaint for unlawful activities by the seller. This act clearly states that consumers have several rights that they can use to protect themselves from fraud and misrepresentation.

Process of Filing a Consumer Complaint

The complete stepwise process of filing a Consumer Complaint is given below:

Step 1: Collect Necessary Information

When a Consumer buys any product or service, he/she should have complete information. In case any consumer feels frauded they can use this necessary information as evidence for filing a complaint.

This necessary information could be anything such as a payment receipt of the product/service, any communication between seller and buyer, product descriptions, warranty evidence or any contract.

Step 2: Send a Formal Letter

Before filing a Consumer Complaint in consumer court the Consumer must send a formal letter and try to resolve the matter directly. At the initial stage, the consumer should connect with the company’s consumer care department and mention all the issues.

If there is no action taken by the company or seller a formal letter must be sent by the buyer. In this letter, all the problems and issues should be mentioned correctly along with any evidence that proves the consumer’s side. This letter could be sent through the post or email as well.

The Seller/company must reply or resolve the consumer’s problem within 15 days of receiving the letter. If no response came from the seller side, the consumer has the right to file a consumer complaint in the appropriate consumer court.

Step 3: Take Lawyer Help

It is essential for consumers to seek legal advice before filing a complaint. It is their responsibility to explain the process or legal remedies that will assist you during the hearing process. Incomplete information will increase your chances of rejection if you file a complaint. Consumers may also have to pay a fine or compensation when found guilty.

If you want to file a Consumer complaint against a company, “Litem Legalis” will help you as a professional guide and help you to seek compensation for your loss and harm.

Step 4: Select the Appropriate Consumer Forum

Before filing the Consumer Complaint the Complainer should know the appropriate consumer forum where they file their complaint. There are a total of three types of forums where consumers file their complaints according to the case value. These Consumer forums are as follows:

  • National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC): It is the national-level court for solving consumer disputes. If the case value is more than 1 crore the consumer can file a complaint in NCDRC.
  • State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (SCDRC): It is the State level court for resolving consumer problems. If the case value is less than 1 crore the consumer can file a complaint in SCDRC.
  • District Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (DCDRC): This is the district-level court for solving consumer issues. If the case value is up to 20 lakhs, the consumer can file a complaint in DCDRC.

Step 5: Filing a Consumer Complaint

If the consumer does not get any response from the seller, a Consumer Complaint will be filed in the appropriate consumer forum. During filing the complaint the Consumer must attach all the appropriate required documents along with the complaint form. These documents will be as follow:

  1. Memo of Parties
  2. Proof of Purchase
  3. Proof of Communication
  4. Photographs or Video evidence (if any)
  5. Other Relevant documents.

Step 6: Take Follow up timely

Stay involved in the process after filing a complaint. You should follow up with the consumer protection agency or any other relevant parties to ensure your complaint is being addressed.

How can “Litem Legalis” help you?

Litem Legalis is a team of professional lawyers that have years of experience. Our team believes you to provide complete guidance and friendly assistance through the complete procedure. There are several other reasons that help you to make Litem Legalis the best choice such as:

Free Legal Advice

Free Legal Advice

Expert Lawyers

Expert Lawyers

Lowest Fees

Lowest Fees

Quick Process

Quick Process

Conclusion

Consumer Complaint is a simple and straightforward process. It serves as a legal weapon for protecting a consumer from any illicit practices. The consumer should be aware of the complete process for filing Consumer Complaint.

The complete process includes several steps such as collecting necessary information, sending a formal letter, taking lawyer advice for a better and smooth process, selecting appropriate legal forums, filing complaints and taking follow-up. All the documents must be correct and appropriate otherwise the complaint could be denied.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is Consumer Complaint?

Consumer complaints are official grievances made by buyers when they don't get the goods or services they purchased from the supplier.

Who can file a Consumer Complaint?

Anyone who purchased any product or services and acts as a consumer can file a Consumer Complaint in order for not getting the satisfactory product or services which they bought.

What rights do consumers have?

Consumers have several rights such as the right to safety, the right to choose, the right to be informed, the right to consumer education, the right to be heard, and the right to seek compensation.

Can we file a Consumer complaint online?

Yes, a Consumer Complaint can also file in online mode.

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