How to Enforce Consumer Rights

Companies use a variety of different methods to advertise their products and make them look attractive to consumers. Consumers will purchase these products based on the claims of the companies, and expect a certain level of satisfaction. However, the products don't always meet the seller's claims or the customer's expectations. The consumer has a right to be satisfied with a purchase, and there are ways to enforce your consumer rights.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make clear copies of all the documents that support your complaint. These could include receipts of a transaction, a bill or communications between you and the seller. Store the original documents in a safe place, since you may need them as proof.

2. Check the policies of the company. Find out how the company or store usually handles complaints or disputes. Be sure that you are, indeed, within your rights.

3. Make a complaint. You may choose to do so by writing a letter, sending an email message, making a phone call or making a visit to the company. Address your complaint to the person in charge of customer service. Remember to remain calm yet firm, and to tell the company what you want them to do to make things right.

4. Show your supporting documents and other evidence. This may include the unsatisfactory item you purchased. If you are making your complaint via email or a letter, you can take a picture of the item and include it in your letter or scan it for your email.

5. Seek the services of a mediator if you are not successful in resolving the problem on your own. As the name suggests, a mediator helps to resolve issues between two parties but has no legal power to enforce the final decision.

6. Take the matter to a small claims court. Be aware, however, that small claims courts have a limit on how much money you can file a claim for. Check with the small claims courts in your area to find out what the amount is. If your claim is higher than the limit, then consider taking your case to a higher court.

7. Seek legal consultation. A lawyer can tell you whether you have a case or not and what your chances are of winning are if you do. He can help you decide whether to proceed with representation and inform you of alternative methods of solving the problem, if any.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are unsatisfied with a product or service, it is best to address the problem within 6 months. After that, the burden of proof falls on the consumer.