Many consumer protection agencies suggest that, prior to considering legal action, a consumer make a reasonable effort to resolve issues outside of court. It is not uncommon for companies to be unaware or simply unwilling to help until an official complaint is lodged. In many cases, consumers can achieve resolution by writing a letter to the company, addressed to the consumer complaint division, stating that a problem has occurred and legal action is now imminent. If the company still shows unwillingness to solve the issue, a complaint can be filed with a consumer agency, alleging that the company has violated the consumer law through their wrongful actions. Through the Federal Trade Commission or state/local agencies, it may be possible for mediation or arbitration to solve the case. If the issue still remains unsolved, the consumer protection agency should be able to provide instructions about filing a lawsuit in district court (small claims).