Consumer Court Complaint Format and Step-by-Step Guide to Filing a Consumer Case in India

Introduction

If you are looking for a Consumer Court Complaint Format and a complete guide on How to File a Consumer Case in India, you are in the right place.
This article is updated according to the latest Consumer Protection Act, 2019, which replaced the old 1986 Act.

If you are part of our NGO’s Free Legal Aid Forum or have purchased our consumer rights books, you have been referred here for detailed help. If you haven't yet joined, you are welcome to join our Free Legal Aid Forum [here] and post your issue.

Free Legal Aid is recommended for complaints up to ₹5000 or non-serious matters. For serious complaints, our expert team, panel lawyers, and NGO support ensure you build a strong case and avoid harassment, time loss, and huge costs.

This is the core mission of our initiative: Project Karnav. Get NGO support in your case. Explore Membership here.

Note for NGO Members:
If you have already been referred here, rest assured that your complaint is fully managed and monitored by our expert team. This article is for your confidence-building and knowledge only. Drafting, monitoring, and strategic support are already included (as per your plan.)

Step-by-Step Instructions Before Filing a Consumer Case

Send a Legal Notice:
Before filing a complaint, you must first send a Consumer Legal Notice to the opposite party.

Document Preparation:

Print/photocopy consumer notice that you have sent to the opposite party.

Print/photocopy Courier/post receipt of consumer legal notice you have sent to the opposite party.

Print/photocopy post/courier tracking receipt showing the notice has been delivered/notice status.

Print/photocopy the receipt/invoice of the disputed amount.

Print/photocopy payment proof such as Bank Statement.

Print/photocopy ID/Transaction number. of UPI, Google Pay, Paytm, NEFT, IMPS, etc.

Make a transcript of important call recordings providing that the opposite party is liable under deficient service, unethical trade practice, threatening, etc also backup recording in PAN drive, and backup it on Google Drive or other cloud storage. keep the original recording source intact. If possible, change your mobile to ensure you do not lose recordings. (Never share this evidence with the opposite party ever, except if the consumer commission demands such to prove)

Print/photocopy WhatsApp chats (only important chats)

Print/photocopy email communication with a header. (i.e. showing date, sender, receiver, and time of email)

Print/photocopy other documents such as Photograph, screenshots, and supporting documents

Combine all the above documents, and give each a name as Annexure – 1, Annexure – 2, etc… Each document should have an annexure number so when you refer to it in your main consumer complaint petition, it is easy for commission president/judges and parties to quickly find underlying point and corresponding documents. Your job is to make your complaint easy to present, and understand, and eliminate complications.

If your friend/relative is appearing before the commission, you need to sign an authorization letter. Do not worry, you will find the same in the format I provide below. Obtain the Aadhar Card ID of the person appearing on your behalf.

Keep your ID like Aadhar Card, in case required.

Name each document as Annexure 1, Annexure 2, etc.

Refer to the correct Annexure number in your main complaint petition for easy reference.

Call Recordings & Backup:
If you have call recordings or voice messages:

Transcribe important parts.

Backup recordings on a Pen Drive or Cloud (like Google Drive).

Never lose the original file and never share it with the opposite party unless the court demands it.

Authorization Letter:
If someone else (like your relative/friend) will appear on your behalf, prepare an Authorization Letter and keep their ID proof ready.

Always Keep Your Own ID Proof:
Carry your Aadhar Card or other government ID in case required during proceedings.

While societal views often favor the mother as the primary caregiver, the Indian judiciary's stance on child custody is more nuanced. The Supreme Court of India affirms that the welfare of the child is the paramount consideration when determining custody, rather than the gender of the parent. This means that both fathers and mothers have equal rights, and the decision is based on what serves the child’s best interests.

Important Advice Before Filing a Consumer Case

Don’t Reveal All Evidence Early:
Never submit all evidence with the legal notice or initial petition. Only present evidence when necessary during proceedings.

Stay Professional and Calm:
Do not get emotional or aggressive. Stick to facts you can prove. Focus on your main case points only.

Play Smart:
Allow the opposite party to reveal their defense first. You can respond later with stronger strategy.

Be Patient:
Trust the system. Results may take time, but your professionalism and preparation will lead to success.

Focus on Facts, Not Emotions:
Courts appreciate clear, documented facts — not dramatic or emotional statements.

Know About Mediation:
Under the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, consumer courts can now refer cases to Mediation for faster resolution.

Always be open for a fair settlement if offered.

Major Changes Under Consumer Protection Act, 2019

Introduction of Mediation:
Cases can now be resolved through mediation without full trial.

Online Filing of Complaints:
You can now file consumer complaints online at the National Consumer Helpline portal.

Expanded Definition of Consumer:
Even those buying products online or using e-commerce services are covered.

Product Liability:
You can now sue manufacturers, sellers, and service providers jointly.

Stricter Penalties:
Higher fines and jail terms for misleading advertisements and unfair practices.

Resources

Consumer Court Notice Format

Consumer Court Petition Format

Instructions for Format:

Read each paragraph carefully.

Remove example texts.

Insert your real facts, names, dates, annexure numbers, etc.

Keep your complaint simple, clear, and precise.

Steps to Follow for Filing a Consumer Commission Complaint

Prepare Petition and Documents:
Draft your complaint petition and necessary documents carefully.
If Complaint Not Accepted:
- Get your complaint notarized (show/carry ID proof like PAN card, Aadhaar, etc. to Notary).
- Generally, Notary charges should not exceed ₹100/200.
- You can find notaries around courts.
Make Copies:
- Prepare 1 copy for yourself, 1 for each opposite party, and 1/2 for the Consumer Commission/Forum.
- Keep 1 extra copy as a backup.
Submit the Complaint:
- Visit the Consumer Commission office.
- Meet the receiving clerk to file your complaint and understand next steps.
Court Fee Payment:
- Prepare a Demand Draft (DD) payable to the respective District/State Commission President.
- Some courts accept cash or postal orders.
- Always double-check payment methods by calling the forum.
File the Complaint and Get a Receipt:
- Submit your complaint with fee payment.
- Get a receipt, complaint reference number, and hearing (admission) date.
- If not admitted in 21 days, it is automatically admitted by law.
Next Steps After Filing:
- The court will send your complaint to the opposite party.
- They must respond within 30 days.
During Hearings:
- If unsure during a hearing, request a new date and seek support.
- Local courts may ask for additional documents – follow their formats if needed.
Important Cautions:
- Stay professional with court staff.
- Be prepared if the opposite party hires strong lawyers.
- Make sure all points are submitted in writing.
Online Filing
- You can also file complaint online on e-Jagriti
- Please be informed desite online platform, sometimes complaint are not moved properly or you may be asked to submit documents in person.

eBook

If you’re serious about filing and winning your consumer complaint without spending a fortune on legal fees, this book is your complete all-in-one solution!

👉 Get your copy today: eBook Title: File Consumer Complaint without Lawyer: A Solid Guide to Contest, Resolve & Win Your Consumer Court Case like a Pro in India

This eBook is specially designed to empower readers to confidently file and fight their consumer complaints on their own — without needing a lawyer.

It teaches you how to file complaints, contest cases in Consumer Courts/Forums, and even strategically resolve disputes without approaching the court.

Packed with practical tricks, tips, and insights — many of which are rarely known even to senior lawyers — this guide opens the door for everyone to tackle brand and service provider issues like a pro.

Whether you’re a consumer who’s just starting to explore your rights, or someone tired of being mistreated by brands and looking for a practical way to fix issues — this eBook will save you huge legal expenses, countless hours, and help you resolve your complaints effectively.

✅ Learn from real experiences
✅ Follow step-by-step proven methods
✅ Master strategies used by top legal experts
✅ Take control of your case, save money, and win smartly

Don’t miss out — equip yourself today and fight like a pro! Click Here to get eBook.

Legal Fees

Check e-Jagriti Website for latest changes and fees.

Key Takeaways:

Prepare Properly: Draft your complaint and supporting documents clearly.

Notarize If Required: If the court refuses to accept, get your complaint notarized (max Rs. 100 fee).

Make Copies: Keep 1 copy for yourself + 1 for each opposite party + 3 copies for the commission.

Pay Correct Court Fees: Pay via Demand Draft (DD) in favor of the respective Consumer Commission.

Follow Court Procedure: Submit the complaint, get a receipt, and note your case reference number.

Cooperate Smartly: Respect court staff but maintain independence to avoid future bias.

Stay Organized: Keep all documents date-wise and read your complaint thoroughly.

Advance Support: Beyond filing, drafting replies, evidence, and appeals may need a donation plan.

Save Big: Filing your complaint yourself saves time, legal costs, and empowers you!

Consider Legal Help: If you are unsure, if the matter is serious, or if large compensation is involved, consult a professional advocate.

Free Legal Aid: Eligible candidates may get free legal aid through government or NGO channels.

Dr. Karnav Shah, Executive Director of Jivanamasteya Trust, is a committed child & human rights advocate leading initiatives in legal aid, livelihoods, & healthcare education in India & Australia. With a doctorate & degrees in law, business, & Mgt., he empowers communities through education, writing, & social action—igniting change & inspiring transformation through purposeful leadership.