Filing a Consumer Complaint in Maryland

Consumers can file a complaint with the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division online through its complaint portal, or by mail, email or fax, sending copies (not originals) of documents. A mediator works with both sides by phone and in writing to try to reach a resolution, but the office cannot force a business to cooperate and cannot give legal advice or act as a private attorney. If mediation fails, the Division offers free, binding arbitration if both parties agree; otherwise consumers are referred to small claims court. Health care billing disputes go to the Division's Health Education and Advocacy Unit.

The Maryland Consumer Protection Act prohibits unfair, abusive or deceptive trade practices, including false or misleading statements, in the sale, lease or offer of consumer goods, services, realty and credit and in debt collection. In addition to enforcement by the Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division, any person may sue to recover for injury or loss caused by a prohibited practice, and a person awarded damages may also be awarded reasonable attorney's fees. A court may order a party who brings a suit in bad faith or for frivolous reasons to pay the other side's attorney's fees.