What is the first step involved in filing a complaint?

The process of filing a complaint begins with the formal submission of the complaint document itself. This action marks the initiation of the complaint procedure, which can include various subsequent steps. Understanding that the filing of the complaint is foundational is crucial, as it formally brings the issue to the attention of the relevant authority or body, initiating the official response and resolution process. Following the filing, there will typically be investigations, hearings, and possibly reviews, but those actions depend on the existence of an officially filed complaint. Therefore, stating that the complaint is filed as the first step accurately captures the essential starting point in any complaint procedure.