Beneath the FTC Bureau of Consumer Protection, there exists state and local consumer offices, each with their own jurisdictions, operating as part of a system with the attorney general. In these offices, consumers can file a complaint known as a consumer complaint. When a complaint has been filed, these offices may the governmental power to administer mediation among other actions to seek resolution. To file an attorney general consumer complaint, consumers should have been affected by a violation of consumer law, such as a merchant refusing to redeem a warranty or a lender who hasn't stayed in line with fair collection procedures.

Investigation and mediation will occur on individual cases, which is sometimes enough to solve the complaint out of court. However, some complaints are not resolved even after mediation. The attorney general's office, at this point, may be able to take further action within their power or guide the consumer regarding the process of a small claims lawsuit and other possible actions.