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13 Dec, 2023 by Joe
I recently faced a daunting array of charges, including Assault & Battery on a Family/Household Member, Assault & Battery with a Dangerous Weapon, Carrying a Firearm Without a License, and Improper Storage of a Firearm. With mandatory minimum incarceration looming, my freedom hung in the balance.
Attorney Estes proved to be an invaluable ally during this challenging time. Through his skillful negotiation with the prosecutor, he orchestrated a plea arrangement that resulted in the dismissal of a majority of the charges. Remarkably, he secured a Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF) for the most serious offense, effectively avoiding the mandatory jail time that seemed inevitable.
The resulting disposition was probation for one year, a far cry from the harsher alternatives I was initially facing. I cannot overemphasize the significance of having Attorney Estes as your defense lawyer when your freedom is on the line. His expertise, strategic approach, and unwavering dedication make him the advocate you want in your corner.
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19 Jan, 2022 by Erik
I needed Thomas H Estes Jr. law services to help me with a criminal case and he went above and beyond in giving me excellent service. Thomas and Stephanie are very polite, respectful and kind. They both make you feel welcome and comfortable when you have them at your side dealing with Your legal issues. Thomas and Stephanie make dealing with the court system seem like a breeze. If you ever need legal counsel and have to deal with any of the issues that Thomas specializes in I would highly recommend hiring him as your lawyer.
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09 Sep, 2019 by Stephanie
His trial strategy is impeccable. Very professional and straight forward. He seems to be very well known in the field of criminal justice. He was very kind in my situation and it was greatly appreciated. He was always on time and always addressed my concerns.
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25 Jul, 2012 by Sandy
My involvement with Lawsuit Financial and Mark Bello started after I began pursuing my malpractice case. Mark listened to me, liasoned with my attorneys, gave me great advice, and provided the financial resources I needed to continue to fight for a just outcome. The strength of the team of my attorneys and Lawsuit Financial enabled me to vigorously pursue my case and bring it to a successful conclusion.
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10 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Mark and his company, Lawsuit Financial, provided legal finance services for me about a year ago. Mark provided expert advice on the legal funding process. As a result of this advice, he single handedly saved my home and increased my settlement results by over 200%! Mark and Lawsuit Financial receive my strongest endorsement.
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28 Jan, 2009 by Anonymous
I was seriously hurt in an auto accident. I couldn't work and was losing my house. I contacted Mark Bello and Lawsuit Financial. They gave me great advice, saved my house and helped me get a larger settlement for my accident. I highly recommend Lawsuit Financial. They really care about the people they are helping.
-Nicole
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01 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Wonderful Professional man. Joel was there for me after my car accident. He was 100% responsive to all of my communications, easy to talk to and walked me through exactly what to do right after I was hit...knew I was taken care of and didn't have to worry. Very honest and very knowledgeable. I knew he was not afraid to try my case if it came down to it (which it almost did)...which was incredibly relieving to me after a super stressful accident. Joel kept in contact until I got my settlement check sent in the mail. Great great service...and I will continue to use him for all legal needs in the future. Highly recommend to friends/family.
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Awesome! Incredibly knowledgeable and accommodating! Was very prompt in all correspondence and kept me informed every step of the way. Made me feel very valued, respected and represented at his fullest capability!
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15 May, 2015 by Anonymous
Making a decision to file bankruptcy is nerve wrecking, a different kind of stress. Mr. Stephen is knowledge coupled with immeasurable customer service that helped to ease the stress. He is very thorough in explaining the options. He is not forceful. He wants to make sure your are comfortable with the decision that will best fit your financial situation. His patience and follow through helped make filing bankruptcy more accepting. Once it was all said and final, I reflect back on his services and realize that he helped to change my life. I highly recommend his services to anyone needing bankrupcy or any legal advice!
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14 Jul, 2010 by Gerardo salas
We filed Chapter 11 and we couldnt have been happier with the outcome , he and Barbara have helped us through this time and we strongly recommend him
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28 Jun, 2010 by Sharon
Mr. Mitchell went above and beyond assisting me with my bankruptcy case. I highly recommend him for anyone considering bankruptcy.
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25 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
I felt very comfortable and at ease talking with Michael Mitchell. He and his staff guided me through a very tough ordeal. This involved both my business and personal finances. I had no idea how to even begin and they made this uncomfortable situation as painless as possible.
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22 Jun, 2023 by Anonymous
My husband hired Kimberly Bishop for a business litigation matter, and she was able to help bring a close to the matter within 6 months! The case was in Texas, and we live in CA, so everything had to be done remote. However, Ms. Bishop did a great job representing my husband, and she always responded quickly to any questions he had and explained the process if he didn't understand. She is a very caring, down to earth, and truly genuine person. Kimberly Bishop is also extremely knowledgeable and very professional, and she kept my husband informed at all times. Lawyers such as Ms. Bishop are few and far between. We are thankful we found her and that she was willing to help my husband with this case. We would highly recommend Kimberly Bishop to anyone.
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27 Oct, 2021 by Don
Kim went well above and beyond in pursuing my claim in a personal debt situation. She successfully worked to a sizeable judgement while communicating clearly and proactively. She was respectful of both parties in a delicate personal litigation. I cannot thank her enough for her work and support on my behalf.
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11 Feb, 2017 by Maggie
“I was served with a lawsuit and realized I needed to find an affordable solution to my predicament. I contacted Mrs. Kimberly Bishop, we met, talked and she agreed to represent me on this case. Mrs. Bishop got the lawsuit dismissed. She kept me apprised with updates from start to finish. She was great and helped me beyond words. Thank you again Mrs. K. Bishop."
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09 Apr, 2018 by Moshe
Galiah helped me prepare a contract that I needed for my business. I am very happy with her work, she prepared it in a timely and professional manner.
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26 Mar, 2018 by Victoria
I urgently needed a legal document prepared. Galiah was able to get it ready for me on time. She was very knowledgeable and helpful.
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22 Mar, 2018 by Jerry
I needed help starting up my office, and getting all the legal necessities taken care of. Galiah guided me through the process, and was always there to answer my questions and help with the process. Thank you Galiah!
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09 Nov, 2015 by Freud
Lawyer Jeffrey Yelsky was extremely open, honest and hard working on my foreclosure case. He is very well regarded for his ability on complex legal matters.
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05 Nov, 2015 by Mike
Jeff has provided me with superior legal representation and advice on numerous, widely varied legal problems. His background knowledge of the entire scope of the legal profession is awe-inspiring, and his work ethic, and ethics, are outstanding. Highest recommendation.
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23 Oct, 2015 by Chris
It has been an amazing experience working with Jeff on my foreclosure case. He is a brilliant mind, and honest. I highly recommend him. Thank you Jeff.
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01 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Viktoriya made sure that I was done with the whole process as quickly and smoothly as possible. She made me feel much less worried about the whole ordeal and took care of it professionally and swiftly. Would definitely recommend!
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30 Nov, 2017 by Anonymous
Attorney Dyrda was very helpful in the area of law that I needed help with. She handled the case in very professional way and most importantly, I got the outcome I wanted. She helped me through every step of the way and the service was excellent. I highly recommend Attorney Viktoriya Dyrda!
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18 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
Viktoriya Dyrda was a phenomenal lawyer from start to end. She guided me through the case and I could not be more pleased with the results. On our first consultation, I felt very comfortable and I knew right away that she can handle my case. Attorney Dyrda takes her cases herself and shows real interest in helping you get the best outcome. I would absolutely recommend her services.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Ken Gallon was very nice, warm and welcoming. He helped me with questions about my brothers case. He answered my questions and explained them and helped me understand the questions that were asked. 10/10 would recommend.
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25 Aug, 2023 by Stacy
I was looking for an attorney for my son and had called numerous lawyers in the area. We are from Ohio so I had no idea where to start. I came across Ken’s firm and sent an email about my situation. I received a call back at 10 pm that night. The ONLY lawyer to call me back. He has been amazing and I would recommend him and his firm to anyone who needs an attorney that cares and will do what they say they are going to do. I am so thankful for him and his staff.
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25 Jan, 2020 by Kasha
They are awesome and straight up and fight for u. Good people. Me and my sister needed some advice and help with some things and they got it done. My hole family goes to him. Great communication with Karen, ken & Jeremy.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Great service from the moment I made the phone call until now great service specially Iusha
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25 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr.Cibik is very knowledgeable. I would recommend him to my Friends and family if needed.
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13 Aug, 2024 by James
From my initial conversation with Mike, to EJ Gruber who handled my case were excellent. EJ had to re assure me a couple of times because I had concerns, but he walked me through it all. He wanted to ensure I was fine, communicated very quickly. Great firm! You will not be wrong choosing them
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09 Feb, 2025 by Jason
My experience with Ghanooni Law Firm was amazing! Eliza accomplished what another attorney told me was impossible and she made it happen. Now I have my life back and a fresh start. She is very nice, kind, listens, thinks outside the box and knows her stuff. If you're scrolling through the internet like I was, then stop and call Eliza. I promise, you wont regret it!
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15 Dec, 2024 by Edward
Eliza is an amazing bankruptcy attorney! Thank you so much. Bankruptcy was such a hard decision for me to make. It took me a year to reach out to lawyers, but once I spoke with her, I knew she was the one. The moment I talked to her, she put me at ease and explained the whole situation. After our call, I realized how unnecessary it was to spend an entire year tormenting myself and feeling ashamed. For anyone on the fence, just reach out to her. It's not as bad as you think. Life happens to everyone. The whole process was seamless with her. She made sure I did everything on my end and got my bankruptcy discharged fairly quickly. I would highly recommend her for her professionalism, but even more for how much she truly cares. Give her a call, you won't be disappointed!
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30 Jul, 2024 by Evan
Efficient, caring, and thorough while going through any/all steps during our time working together. Eliza and her team were wonderful to work with, and I would without doubt recommend them to anyone. Very happy with their services.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Tracey-ann rigg
02 Oct, 2024 by Richard mills
Gregory McFarlane is the very best at what he does. Professionalism personified. Highly recommended!
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30 Aug, 2024 by Bad jamaican-gal
I would like to start of by saying thank you to THE MCFARLANE FIRM they did a exceptional job with my case very affective and efficient service.I definitely recommend THE MCFARLANE FIRM for all your legal needs.
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09 Dec, 2024 by Debra stierhoff
I couldn't have been more pleased with my attorney, Jacob. He worked diligently on my case and stayed on top of everything that was happening. I would not hesitate to hire him again. Great job Jacob and thank you.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Ele and win
I talked to Marisha, and she was very sweet. Put my mind at ease. I feel faithful that if I needed support, they would provide it and thoroughly.
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17 Sep, 2024 by Mandy miller
Sean was extremely helpful during a recent legal issue. He was always very responsive to any questions or concerns I had. Highly recommend Kohl & Cook.
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29 Oct, 2024 by Erik watson
This is the second time I had use the services of Viper Law. Everyone there are up and above helpful thru the whole experience, as this is an already tough situation to go thru. Tanveer and his whole team are the only people I would ever put the security of my life in their hands and know that I have absolutely nothing to worry about. Thank you to the whole Viper Law team for being there for me!!
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22 Mar, 2024 by Tammy dunkeson
22 Mar, 2024 by Ryan dohogne
11 Feb, 2025 by John williams
I had the pleasure of working with Don Dennis, and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the service he provided. From start to finish, he was professional, knowledgeable, and incredibly thorough. He took the time to ensure I fully understood every step of the process, explaining complex legal matters in a clear and approachable manner.
What stood out most was his dedication and strategic approach. He also provided a well-thought-out game plan for moving forward, giving me confidence and clarity in my next steps. His timely communication and responsiveness made me feel valued as a client, and I truly appreciated his commitment to achieving the best possible outcome.
If you are looking for a lawyer who is both skilled and genuinely invested in his clients, I highly recommend Don Dennis. His professionalism and expertise make him a standout in his field.
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10 Feb, 2025 by Jonathan “jon” m
I highly recommend Don for all your legal needs, he helped me workout payment plans with companies I owed money to in the hundreds of thousands, so much weight, and stress has been lifted off my shoulders. I do not need to visit anyone else for my legal needs, if something comes up in the future, I'm going to Don. This guy is honest, and is great at what he does, very knowledgeable of his craft, I promise you will not be disappointed working with him! Theirs a reason he has 5 stars!!!
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08 Mar, 2024 by Alexander james
I run an educational consulting business and recently worked with Don Dennis and his team to craft a new agreement for clients. He took the time to really learn about my business and what I wanted to accomplish. Whenever I had questions, he was quick to respond over email and was easy to get on the phone to discuss. I'm very happy with the final product and how quickly he delivered it. I highly recommend Don and his team.
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01 Mar, 2015 by Jay
Scot handled our bankruptcy with the utmost care, professionalism and expertise. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Thank you!
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16 Jul, 2011 by Mark j.
Talked to Scot on the phone for 45 minutes. He gave me helpful advice.
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24 May, 2015 by Bill
I have known Mr via for several years. He has represented me in the past and I have come to trust his judgment and experience. He is fair and an honest person who will treat you the same.
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03 Jan, 2014 by Howard t.
Mr. Via was very quick in winning my case for breach of contract. After consulting, he advised that I had a strong case and he would handle everything. He kept me informed each week and in about four weeks I received the settlement. I really appreciated his efficient and professional handling of the case.
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13 May, 2024 by Michael
I had Alan write me a breech of contract letter. He was very good at explaining things. He took time to answer my questions and was detailed with his explanations. He was efficient in getting done what I needed in the time frame I needed. I highly recommend him for any services you may require
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17 Apr, 2024 by Russell
My wife and I were very pleased with the service provided by Mr. Barker's Firm. I especially was impressed by the open honest way business was conducted. My Family has decided to retain Mr. Barker's Firm for future needs.
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11 Oct, 2012 by Mike l.
We've begun to work with Sean over last several years on landlord-tenant agreements. I appreciate that he stays current on the rapidly and ever changing laws. Sean knows how we think, and he’s a great resource to bounce around ideas. When decisions are made and projects begin, he’s very responsive. And on the occasion when further research is needed, I appreciate his ability to find the right answers for me.
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19 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I recently moved out of my home after renting for 7 years after receiving a 60 day notice to terminate residency from the new property manager who never answered emergency calls, didn't show up for meetings, etc.. I called Mr. Hanley to see what exactly my rights were as a tenant and what to expect if i did not comply with 60 day notice. He explained to me very simply the laws and rules of tenancy and was brutally honest about what the consequences would be if an unlawful detainer was brought against me. He did this at no charge to me over the phone, wished me luck and offerred his services if I needed it.
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22 Jan, 2021 by Sally
I hired Melody after a fraudulent account was opened in my name at a local Jewelry store. Melody took care of all necessary paperwork and communications with the store owner and the defrauded bank. After an investigation, the bank found in my favor and cancelled the account.
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21 Aug, 2020 by Stiliyan
It was great pleasure to work with Melody. She impress us with her knowledge about the subject and didn't disappoint us. At the end we get the desired results.
Thank you!
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22 Jun, 2020 by Anthony hall
Mrs. Hall is thorough and professional. She is experienced in immigration law with a great knowledge base. She assisted me with obtaining with obtaining my green card. I would recommend her nay day for you legal needs.
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07 Jun, 2020 by Hannah
I contacted Attorney Hall to remove the conditions on my husband’s green card. Her price was reasonable and she allowed us to make payments for her help. She’s thorough and is very good with communicating. I highly recommend her for all your immigration needs.
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15 Jul, 2015 by Sasha
My law firm was located down the hall from Brooke Panagakos for several years. In that time, I've had the pleasure of referring numerous cases to her for bankruptcy. In addition to having experience, she brings unmatched work ethic and uncompromising integrity to the table. I highly recommend Brooke Panagakos, Esq.
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20 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
Brooke is not only an outstanding attorney who always attains the best results for her clients, but she also is excellent in communicating with other attorneys and the courts.
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26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Such an amazing and outgoing person who always made sure to keep me well informed, Ned showed constant due diligence of my case and was quickly able to get too heart of the problem that would have ruined my case and instead completely flipped the switch to make what I thought was my biggest problem into my biggest asset to easily get my case settled with a result far exceeding my expectations. This man seriously changed my life
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12 Sep, 2022 by Billy
Ned seriously has super powers since he did the impossible for me and got me the biggest possible settlement more than I ever expected. You are my hero thanks for changing my life for the better!
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04 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
Janet Represented me on several occasions. She was referred by a friend who had used her for her divorce. She helped me prove a change of circumstances and my alimony was eliminated with a short term minimal payment. She was thorough and creative in her approach.
I used her again to review and negotiate a contract for me as well as to assist me with several minor matters that other attorneys I knew thought were too minor for their attention. Janet gave all of them the same level of attention whether she was being paid a couple of hundred dollars or several thousand.
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14 Jul, 2013 by Laila
I have retained Ms. Shepherd several times in the last few years. She was wonderful, caring, responsive, knowledgeable and superb in handling my case. I trust her and would not hesitate to retain her again in the future or to recommend her services to others.
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27 Nov, 2016 by Cynthia
I give kudo's to such a fine Attorney as Ms. Moscato. She is grounded and truly committed to taking care of all your need and at the same time making sure you understand every legal avenue you can take. Ms. Moscato made every step of my legal problems go smoothly and stress free.
Sincerely Thankful that I used
The Law office of Allison Moscato
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24 Jun, 2013 by Peter
Miss Moscato was very knowledgeable in her field. And even though I know that she had dozens more cases that she was working on, she always took the time to answer my many questions in a timely manner. And she always managed to make me feel like I was her top priority at that time. It's very rear today to find an attorney who takes the time to work with you one on one.
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12 Oct, 2017 by Pat
Tom has helped me several times. He helped me file for disability & I was approved first attempt. I received my first check 3 months after I filed.
He has helped me with bad landlords. He even was able to get my dogs back 2 days after I was going to sell them as I have mental issues and was so sad feeling I let my dogs go. Tom is a wonderful man who truly cares about his clients and employees. I also had the privalge of working for him and he was the best boss I've ever had. Cant say enough how great Tom is and he's a awesome attorney.
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24 Feb, 2015 by David
I have worked with Tom Avrutis for 25 years. He is an exceptional lawyer and person. Always prompt, knowledgeable and professional. I highly recommend him for collections work.
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16 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Grain settled my debt /dispute with my former landlord. He did a great job at very reasonable fee. Thank you very much Mr. Grain!
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29 Jul, 2009 by Anonymous
Excellent attorney, kept us posted every steo of the way. Highly recommend.
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10 Oct, 2014 by Anonymous
Stuart saved the day! He did not ask a penny. A credit card collector from took me to court, I was not served with a summon. Stuart advised what I should do, and what to say. Stuart has the knowledge and he cares. Thanks Stuart! :)
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08 Apr, 2012 by Elliot
Mr. Brecher has support me in a number of various legal matters including court appearances and property settlements. He is most proficient and professional in his approach to all of the legal matters that I was faced with. He worked with me to understand the implications of the decisions needed in each of the case. He was very understanding of my lack of knowledge of the legal system - I am an engineer - and he made the various processes and procedures that I went through as painless and quick as possible.
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29 Jun, 2018 by Gregg
Kevin Mason is a lawyer you want when you know you are in a litigation case where you have been wronged or cheated by your ex employer.
He will fight for justice until justice prevails and is a great communicator ...I highly recommend his services !!
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25 Mar, 2016 by Rich
I am in a very bad case in Florida and Kevin is very good at getting to the bottom line. He is just what we needed to fight an HOA that is terrible and has lawyers to match. I have worked with a lot of lawyers in my time and this guy is one of the good ones. I highly recommend him. You will be happy you hired him.
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13 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Resolved my case very quickly, worked hard to research defenses and provided many to settle the case. From the initial phone call details were explained thoroughly, about the case and fees. They had the upmost confidence that my case could be settled with no damage to myself, and they delivered completely. I would highly recommend seeking out counsel here. If I ever need to have legal representation again I will seek Mr. Dickerson and his group’s help first.
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30 Nov, 2017 by Craig
The Heritage Law Group is my version of the Legal Dream Team!!
Mr. Dickerson and his team were extraordinarily hard-working and diligent about my case. As his clients, I felt very important and knew I was in great hands. Thank you, Mr. Dickerson, for a job well done!!!
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Debt Settlement Lawyer Can Do for You
A debt settlement lawyer specializes in helping individuals and businesses negotiate with creditors to reduce or eliminate unsecured debts, such as credit card balances, medical bills, and personal loans. These lawyers provide legal advice on debt relief options, represent you in negotiations, and protect your rights under consumer protection laws. By leveraging their expertise, a debt settlement lawyer can often secure more favorable terms than you might achieve on your own, potentially reducing the total amount owed and helping you avoid bankruptcy.
When Should I Hire a Debt Settlement Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a debt settlement lawyer in the following situations:
- Overwhelming Debt: If you're struggling to make minimum payments on your debts or are facing significant financial hardship, a lawyer can help explore options to reduce your debt burden.
- Creditor Harassment: If creditors or collection agencies are harassing you with frequent calls, letters, or threats, a lawyer can intervene to protect your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
- Lawsuits from Creditors: If a creditor has filed a lawsuit against you for unpaid debts, a lawyer can represent you in court and negotiate settlements to prevent wage garnishment or asset seizure.
- Complex Debt Situations: If your debts involve legal complexities, such as co-signers, joint accounts, or disputed charges, a lawyer can navigate these issues effectively.
- Considering Bankruptcy: If you're contemplating bankruptcy but want to explore alternatives, a debt settlement lawyer can advise on whether debt settlement is a better option for your situation.
- Protecting Assets: If you have significant assets you wish to protect from creditors, a lawyer can help structure settlements to safeguard your property.
Hiring a lawyer early can maximize your chances of a favorable outcome and prevent legal missteps that could worsen your financial situation.
What Does a Debt Settlement Lawyer Do?
A debt settlement lawyer provides a range of services to help you manage and reduce your debts:
- Legal Consultation: Evaluates your financial situation, explains your rights, and advises on the best debt relief options, such as debt settlement, debt consolidation, or bankruptcy.
- Negotiating with Creditors: Communicates with creditors and collection agencies on your behalf to negotiate reduced settlements, lower interest rates, or extended repayment terms.
- Drafting Settlement Agreements: Prepares legally binding agreements that outline the terms of the settlement, ensuring that the creditor cannot pursue additional claims once the debt is settled.
- Protecting Against Creditor Harassment: Uses legal tools to stop abusive collection practices and enforces your rights under consumer protection laws.
- Representing You in Court: If creditors file lawsuits, the lawyer can defend you, potentially getting cases dismissed or negotiating settlements to avoid judgments.
- Financial Planning Advice: Provides guidance on budgeting, managing expenses, and rebuilding credit after debt settlement.
- Bankruptcy Alternatives: Helps you explore alternatives to bankruptcy, which can have long-term effects on your credit and financial opportunities.
How Are Debt Settlement Lawyers Paid?
Debt settlement lawyers typically charge for their services in one of the following ways:
- Flat Fee: A set fee for specific services, such as negotiating with a single creditor or handling a straightforward settlement.
- Hourly Rate: Charging an hourly fee for the time spent working on your case. Rates can range from $200 to $500 or more per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
- Percentage of Savings: Some lawyers charge a fee based on a percentage of the amount they save you in the settlement. For example, if they negotiate a $10,000 debt down to $6,000, they might charge 25% of the $4,000 saved.
- Retainer Fee: An upfront payment from which the lawyer deducts fees as they work on your case. You may need to replenish the retainer if it is exhausted.
- Payment Plans: Some lawyers offer payment arrangements to make their services more affordable, allowing you to pay the fee over time.
It's important to discuss payment structures and fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost and ensure it fits within your budget.
How Much Does a Debt Settlement Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a debt settlement lawyer varies based on several factors:
- Flat Fees: May range from $500 to $3,000 per creditor, depending on the complexity of the negotiations.
- Hourly Rates: Typically between $200 and $500 per hour. Total costs depend on the amount of time required to settle your debts.
- Percentage of Savings: Commonly 15% to 25% of the amount saved through negotiation. For example, if your lawyer saves you $10,000, their fee might be $1,500 to $2,500.
- Retainer Fees: Initial retainers can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the anticipated workload.
Additional costs may include:
- Court Fees: If legal action is necessary, such as filing motions or defending against lawsuits.
- Administrative Fees: Charges for copying documents, postage, or other administrative tasks.
Always request a detailed fee agreement and discuss all potential costs upfront to avoid unexpected expenses.
Top Questions to Ask a Debt Settlement Lawyer
-
What is your experience with debt settlement cases similar to mine?
Ensure the lawyer has a successful track record in negotiating debt settlements for clients with situations like yours. -
How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated total costs?
Understand the fee structure, including any upfront costs, percentages, or additional fees. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of how much your debts could be reduced and the likelihood of successful negotiations. -
How long will the debt settlement process take?
Get an estimated timeline for negotiations and resolution. -
Will you handle communications with all my creditors?
Clarify whether the lawyer will negotiate with all your creditors or only specific ones. -
What happens if a creditor refuses to settle?
Discuss alternative strategies if a creditor is uncooperative. -
How will debt settlement affect my credit score?
Understand the potential impact on your credit and how to rebuild it afterward. -
Can you help protect me from creditor lawsuits or wage garnishment?
Inquire about legal protections and how the lawyer can assist if creditors take legal action.
How to Check the Credibility of a Debt Settlement Lawyer
- Verify Their License: Ensure the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state's bar association.
- Experience and Specialization: Look for a lawyer who specializes in debt settlement or consumer debt law.
- Client Reviews and Testimonials: Research online reviews or ask for references to learn about other clients' experiences.
- Professional Memberships: Membership in organizations like the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) or local bar associations can indicate a commitment to the field.
- Disciplinary Record: Check for any past disciplinary actions or complaints filed against the lawyer.
- Consultation Feedback: Use the initial consultation to assess their communication style, professionalism, and confidence in handling your case.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your initial meeting with a debt settlement lawyer, bring the following:
- Detailed List of Debts: Include all creditors, account numbers, balances, interest rates, and any correspondence you've received.
- Income and Expense Statements: Provide documentation of your income sources and monthly expenses to give the lawyer a clear picture of your financial situation.
- Credit Reports: Obtain a recent copy of your credit report from all three major bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax).
- Correspondence from Creditors: Bring any letters, notices, or legal documents you've received from creditors or collection agencies.
- Legal Documents: If you've been served with lawsuits, summons, or wage garnishment orders, bring those documents.
- Questions and Concerns: Prepare a list of questions about your options, the debt settlement process, and potential outcomes.
- Budget Information: Be ready to discuss what you can realistically afford to pay toward settlements.
By being thoroughly prepared, you enable the lawyer to assess your situation effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
