The attorney general in each of the United States is in a position of government-appointed power for law enforcement. As the head legal power in each state, the office of the attorney general can process lawsuits and prosecutions within its jurisdiction. Regarding consumer law, most states also consist of a department whose responsibilities are to protect consumers. As part of this task, state and local consumer protection offices operating under the the attorney general enforce consumer law, handling attorney general consumer complaints through investigation and various methods of resolution. Not all cases, even if there was a violation, will be able to be taken to lawsuit directly by the attorney general, but cases will be investigated, mediated, and consumers will be given direction concerning a small claims lawsuit in district court. To file a complaint, consumers should contact their state's attorney general online or via telephone.