Offices are located in most major cities. A consumer may find out if complaints are on record about a business or businesses inquired about, or a consumer may wish to file a complaint against a business. Upon request, a complaint form is sent to a consumer and then processed upon its return. A copy of the complaint form is forwarded to the business, and an attempt is made to resolve the controversy. If not resolved, the complaint usually remains on record against that business.
Many larger communities offer mediation service agencies for dispute resolution.
While these services may be available throughout the private sector, frequently the community agency is more accommodating in scheduling the mediation session and more cost-effective for the consumer. Alternative dispute resolution services are generally listed in the blue pages of the telephone book. Sometimes a complaint may be filed with these agencies or a telephone call made to determine the legality of a practice. Most of the state regulatory agencies are located in Austin while the federal agencies usually have local or regional offices in Dallas or Fort Worth. In some areas the local bar association sponsors legal clinics.