What Are Essentials Of A Good Consumer Complaint?

Answer:

Correct party details, facts in chronological order, correct jurisdiction, details of transaction/service, proof of payment made, service deficiency or unfair trade practice, record of important communication, notice sent (if any), documents relied upon, loss suffered by consumer, legal grounds to file complaint, relief claimed and prayed for, interim relief if needed, verification, affidavit, and list of annexures. Chronological order is important. Avoid squeezing many dates into one paragraph. 

Typically, the first part of complaint should identify who the complainant is and who the opposite party is. Next, the complaint should explain how consumer/producers relationship was created. For e.g. complainant purchased goods from opposite party, booked flat, purchased insurance policy, opted for banking services, paid for travel services, or hired opposite party for rendering services. After setting the background, the complaint should explain what exactly went wrong and how opposite party failed to provide promised goods/services.

Include only those allegations which can be proved with documents. Don’t make vague accusations. Instead of saying “I have been cheated by opposite party,” complain should explain specific acts such as not giving possession, refusing to refund money, wrongfully rejecting complainant’s claim, debiting money without authorization, supplying defective goods, or refusing to correct records.

LEGAL365 has a structured approach to consumer complaint drafting led by Advocate BK Singh. The purpose is to make the complaint readable by forum, avoid technical dismissal, and build a strong case which can support filing of appeal if needed. Every lawsuit begins with the complaint, and consumer forum is no exception.