Most people find that a fill-in-the blank, professionally written complaint letter is their safest and most effective way to get their complaint resolved.

But if you really want to tackle the job yourself, here are some of the many things you should be aware of.

One big problem you could have is being found guilty of libel. Libel is defined as a false written statement that damages the good reputation of someone or a company.

You could be found guilt of libel and spend up to five years in jail and/or pay thousands of dollars in fines If you write a defamatory statement that you:

• Know to be false,
• Can't prove,
• Or state as fact something that is only your opinion . . .

If you have positive proof that your statements are true or if you clearly state them as your opinion, you could be okay, but be careful.

If you have something you just have to get off of your chest, you can start by saying, "In my opinion" or "I feel" or "It's my belief that" . . . (then you can go on and on).

These kinds of threats usually do you more harm than good anyway. Stick with the facts, be polite. NEVER get involved with name calling even if he is lazy, a liar and a SOB.

Never say, "If you don't give me my refund, I will see you in court." You can say, "I will take appropriate legal action."

Also, never ever threaten criminal action to resolve a civil matter. Don't say, "If you don't pay me the $974 you own me, I'm going to report your (whatever) criminal activity. You could be the one who ends up in jail.

Bottom line: Stick to the facts and keep your emotions out of your written complaint letters. Be logical, clear about what you want done, reasonable and polite and you stand a much better chance of getting the results you want.

Remember, you can download our porfessionally written, fill-in-the-blank complaint letters and have this project out of your way in a matter of minutes.