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15 Apr, 2016 by Grant
I have been waiting for months for them to work on my case.They also promised me a win, said that they do not take on cases that they lose. Everytime I try to call them I am put on hold for literally hours. The last time I called I asked not to be put on hold, and she said I would never do that, and I was promptly put on hold...AGAIN! They have not gotten back to me in 3 out of the 4 times I called them. Last time we talked, I was told I did not have to call, I could just use the web. Wrong. Their site has no way to contact them other than phone. And now after calling a different lawyer I find that since they started the case, they and only they can finish it. I guess I am just stuck in Limbo.
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13 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
We were well pleased with the professionalism and completeness of the competency of the lawyer Andrea Cobery who assisted us and was well organized with our complicated case. I would recommend them to anyone who would need assistance with their bankruptcy.
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04 May, 2017 by Samuel
Adam helped dismiss a debt being collected illegally super quick and without a headache. Money well spent!!
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12 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
He was only interested in making a few bucks, without concern to the real issues. I was fortunate, and worked out the matter instead of nickel and diming my creditor.
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19 Dec, 2014 by Anonymous
Used Mr. Wagner to do my Chapter 13 bankruptcy case. Is knowledgeable, friendly, and personable in handling the case. Often very slow in responding to inquires or problems once the case was filed, possibly because he is very busy. But, responds quickly when chooses to do so. Had a few surprises that weren't explained very well initially when the case was first filed that cost me more money than it should have and a modification had to be filed to correct them. But, he got the modification done quickly and equitably. Hopefully things will continue to go as smoothly as possible.
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18 Sep, 2022 by Anonymous
I was desperate, paid this fraud at least $1000 to represent me to my creditors, and he never did. None of my credit card companies were contacted. I was trying to avoid filing bankruptcy and losing my house, yet this sleazy guy steals $1000 from me. Do not hire!
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25 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
Kent cannot be trusted to have any of your interests in mind. He shamelessly inflated his timesheet on what, even her claimed to be, was a very simple case. He conveniently inflated his timesheet to complete his entire retainer. Once the case was dismissed in my favor, he took a call from the opposing party, charging me for that, and then setting up a meeting with her which he would further charge me for. There was no reason for him to take the call or create a meeting, it would extend a case that was over, essentially working against me. He also charged me for filling out paper work to pursue the prevailing party's clause which he never actually submitted. truly fraudulent.
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26 May, 2018 by Michael
I am an attorney, and have hired Kent to represent me on a number of occasions. He is competent, professional, and generous with his time. Because he accepts a limited number of cases, he is able to provide individual attention to each client.
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07 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
His last review of May 2017 is very correct. He is an excellent attorney to make sure he gets paid. "I have to get paid even if you die" . Final outcome of my case was horrible and unfavorable.
Our personal opinion after this experience, is that he is more concerned about himself and his colleagues. Avoid him by all means!!
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04 May, 2017 by Anonymous
I agree with the other client who previously stated that Mr. Henderson secretly converses with opposing counsel and talks negatively about his clients. He withholds all the information he obtains with his verbal agreements with opposing counsel. He then proceeds to bill $100 for every email response. I would not refer him to any friends, family or anyone. Maybe he's better in simple bankruptcies but he's definitely not an attorney for complicated cases.
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27 Jul, 2016 by Barry boyd
I hired James Henderson to represent my small business company and managers in a bankruptcy case. First; he demanded $5,000.00 to get started. He did not filed schedules on time, failed to communicate around issue(s), made disparaging remarks about us to opposing counsels and failed to file timely response to court deadline and orders and caused an adverse outcome. He even stopped representing us and filed to withdraw. He never gave any accounting of the funds he received. WORST EXPERIENCE EVER!
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04 Sep, 2024 by Moose kid
I’m hoping to reach Melody, I work right across from her old office and she left in may- from what I remember she said she was moving into another office but I don’t remember if she specified where. I’ve had a few of her clients come in and ask where she’s at now, I’ve had to hold their numbers for when I do. I guess I thought a new address or update would be left. If you can reach out to our office Melody, I’d be happy to leave a note on your door so your clients can know where to find you- your neighbors :)
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28 Jun, 2024 by Gina kaufman
Ms. Butz does a disservice to her profession. My husband and I met with her in February to rewrite our wills. After REPEATED attempts to reach her via emails, voice messages, leaving messages taped to the door at her "office" (loosely used term), all of which went unanswered. We FINALLY got our original wills returned to us in late JUNE, with absolutely no work done on them. So disheartening and unprofessional.
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29 Aug, 2023 by Gretchen havill
I would not recommend Melody, I would have given 0 stars but google required I select at least 1 star. She was difficult to get a hold of and went months without returning multiple voicemails and emails attempts. The one time we did meet in person, she did not present herself in a professional manner.
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23 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Weller would not do what I asked. I suggested to him to try to convert my chapter 13 to a chapter 7 because of my change in my financial situation. His reply was pretty much that can't happen. I elected to terminate Mr. Weller and go with another lawyer. My new lawyer converted my chapter 13 to a chapter 7 after reviewing my situation and we took care of it in a matter of a couple months. Case closed , I'm happy . Jay Weller needs to try to have a little more compassion for his work ethic and for his customers I won't talk about the price I paid along with his so called monthly monitor fees. Not any monitoring going on that I was aware of.
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30 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Jay is a great lawyer and helped turn my life around. I highly recommend him and his team.
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07 Jun, 2011 by Michelle
Jay Weller is VERY unprofessional and unreliable. He stood me up on 2 separate appointments and then when I asked for my deposit back due to the situation, his incompetent staff refused. They did nothing but waste 2 of my Saturday mornings and then kept my hard earned money. I chose another attorney that did an excellent job and was always at the appointments. Jay Weller is not someone that I would choose to represent me in any way shape or form. Don't even bother calling him and call someone that will actually show up to your scheduled appointments.
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26 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
am disgusted by Rand Schwartz If I could leave 0 stars I would. I acquired Rand as a divorce attorney, he charged me 4k and said he would help me being that he worked on my accident case a few years back, little did I know it was going to be the worst experience in my life. Rand hit me with a bunch of hidden charges two years later. I am currently on workmancIomp. He charged me $2500 on top of taking my 4k from the beginning. I thought I could trust him and he took advantage of me. Never trust a lawyer/lier. He had the nerve to say to me when I get back to work I can pay him. Please stay away from this attorney he has no sympathy for his clients. YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!!!! I HAVE BROUGHT BUSINESS TO THIS LAW FIRM AND THIS IS THE THANKS I GET!!!!
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15 Sep, 2017 by Anonymous
Never got the information I requested. Kept stalling procedures. Even spelt my name incorrectly on legal forms.
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24 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
I hired Rand to deal with a separation that involved a foreclosure and credit debt. Rand was insightful and compassionate, calm and professional. He used his full network of contacts (and his partner) to help inform our position, and he used his friendly demeanor to build rapport with the opposing counsel. At the end of the day, he helped me navigate a difficult settlement at a reasonable cost.
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24 Mar, 2016 by Anonymous
I brought a case to the attention of Attorney Dana Reece because I heard great things about her. Grant it I'm sure she did do a lot of great things and come off as a great person, but in my case she was not honest. I submitted paperwork and everything she needed including money to get my husband case up and running July 2015. She was not honest or communicated throughout the process. Come to find out his case was denied August 2015 without Attorney Reece ever explaining it to me, but instead she continued to lie about checking on the case up to December 2015. End result she never called me back and explained why I didn't hear back from her, but she did take a total of 1500.00. It's not about the money, but about being honest with your clients no matter what the outcome is.
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22 Jan, 2016 by Cheryl
I sought Dana because of the "Christian" approach/beliefs she advertised on her website. Dana spent an hour with me in person regarding my legal issue which resulted in me writing her a check to secure her services. She also spent an hour on the phone with me counseling me about my husband's behavior and stressed that I not let him move back in. I think she has good intentions but lack of organizational skills and follow-through. The upfront fee of $5000 for me to pursue an annulment seemed reasonable based on other lawyers' fees; however, she filed in the wrong county. My attempts to communicate with her via phone and email were met with sporadic responses. She ultimately told me getting an annulment was unlikely. Consequently, I did not pursue getting the paperwork filed in the correct county, and I chose not to ask for any of the $5,000 back. Another lesson learned for me... what you see is not necessarily what you get. Advertising is just that... advertising. Please take the time to find all the reviews you can on an attorney before securing services. Buyer beware. Thank you for taking the time to read this review.
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09 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired her in 2012 for a very simple divorce which she turned into TWO unnecessary court appearances which could've been handled in ONE!
After calling day & night week after week I learned her hours start at noon & she works 1 or 2 days per week. She has her assistant tell you she is out of the office or in court but you should just try calling from a different phone number & pretend to be a new client, then you get put thru to her & can catch her in her lie.
She downplayed my Domestic Dispute & lied about divorce decree. She caused me LOSE BACK CHILD SUPPORT payments b/c she DID NOT file paperwork until nearly 6 months after the Temp Hearing.
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21 Feb, 2024 by Michael
Very pleased with out come have used 3 times done exactly as he said he would in a timely manner will use again if need be thanks Kyle
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16 Aug, 2023 by Anonymous
Doesn’t represent his client. Unable to reach. Works for other side. I would not hire this attorney for any legal matter.
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14 Jan, 2018 by Eve ellington
I had Mrs. Geeslin as a public defender. I wish I never trusted her. Because of her I signed off on documents I had no business and it cost me my children. If you're a person of color, PLEASE do not choose her. She refused to defend my family because we didn't look like what we claimed! Now my children are being abused and sexually assaulted in foster care thanks to her.
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08 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
In the beginning, it was great. He was eager to help us and everything seemed to be going well until he signed us up. It took him forever to file the bankruptcy case and repeated emails/calls for status updates were ignored. It's as it was one way communication attorney... he wouldn't respond to any of our requests for updates; he only re-contacted us at the end of the process... not happy with the lack of updates and help after the case was over, but he did win the case in the end.
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23 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Kavanagh as well as Mr. Kevin Mitchell are very unprofessional and unpleasant to work with. Had a case in which they had my license suspended and the court closed the case, Mr. Kavanagh and staff that work to represent Geico have yet to resolve this issue so I can obtain my license. It has been almost four years. They still insist on a payment after the court has closed the case, which to me is underhanded and against the law.
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05 Sep, 2014 by Melissa
Still waiting for this office to collect a settled claim from City of Baltimore that is 2.5 years old. Consistently get "run-a-round" on phone. Receptionist indicates that we must speak with attorney directly for updates yet he always seems to be "out of office" and "unavailable". Never heard of an attorney that doesn't have staff to answers these types of questions. However, staff is probably frustrated at getting the angry client calls and refuse to be the "gate keepers" any longer. I don't blame them. Very, very frustrating! Very poor representation of Geico with respect to their choice in legal representation.
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08 May, 2014 by Peggy and vincent
I was actually the defendant in a case for which I was sued. Although Attorney Thomas Kavanagh represented the plaintiff, he treated us with the utmost respect. It was a pleasure working with him in finding a solution that worked for the plaintiff as well as myself. He was very responsive to our inquiries. We could not afford legal representation but he did not take advantage of the situation. I'm truly grateful to him.
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10 May, 2021 by Dorian
Would give ZERO stars If I could. Communication was atrocious. Lauren failed to follow through with our executed agreement, missed court deadlines, failed to file paperwork in a timely manner and failed to make court appearances. Her actions led to the dismissal of my case before my day in court. Now it's too late. Find a responsible attorney, instead.
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17 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
I've had a few attorneys before. Lauren started off pretty well. She told me everything I wanted to hear to get my case the basically disappeared. She has missed court dates, failed to file court documents in a timely manner, missed appointments, and has poor communication in general. I would not recommend her services to anyone.
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26 Oct, 2020 by Robert
On October 26, 2020, I received a text message:
(833) 885-7666‬
Mortgage Assistance Available A+ Rated with the BBB. If you still need help with your home, please visit: www.homelawsolutions.com/help Reply STOP to opt-out.
I did contact the Mn attorney, Brodie D. Hacken, and was told by him that he is not associated with this group and has not for the past two years.
Under the TCPA and Federal Communications Commission (FCC) regulations, it is illegal for a company to send text messages using autodialers unless the consumer gave consent to receive the message or the message was sent for emergency reasons. As of October 2013, the FCC issued new regulations that require businesses to obtain written, signed consent before they can send text messages to consumers. This applies even if the consumer has not placed their cell phone on the Do-Not-Call list. When a company breaks the law and sends out spam text messages, the recipient can seek up to $500 per message – a fine that can increase to $1500 per text if the company willfully violated the law.
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30 May, 2024 by Dana
Absolutely terrible lawyer. I would never recommend her to anyone, not even to my enemy! Extremely biased lawyer protecting unlicensed criminals. She didn't read all my complaints nor did she look all the overwhelming evidences yet she decided to give to a criminal a free pass. Stay away from this extremely biased lawyer.
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08 Mar, 2019 by Faye
do your research before hiring Robin, i hired her with doing a consultation over the phone for a wrongful tenant eviction / judgment that a property management company put faints me who wasn’t authorized due to the landlord being deceased, to make a long story short i told her the story she act as if she agreed that payments should go to the estate, but once we got to court it’s almost like she was working with the other attorney against me, not taking the proff i had to show this property management company was bogus, she advised me of things i already knew and we discussed, she was a complete waste, i would see elsewofor legal advice
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06 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
Where do I start, he's unorganized to the point he missed a court date he was paid for in advance (ill give him a break on that because of covid) but was disregarded and never reimbursed. Secondly, he will tell you one price and then fast talk his greedy paws into getting as much money out of you as possible. Do not hire or recommend this con artist. He will come off as charming to get your business BUT do not be fooled. He doesn't give a crap about you. Gus aka the "Gus Buster" as he referred to himself as; I honestly do not think he is even a legit lawyer. His credentials are from THE TOP WORST LAW SCHOOL IN THE COUNTRY. THAT IS A FACT, SO BAD IT WAS ON THE FRONT PAGE OF A FORBES ARTICLE HOW APPARENTLY TO KEEP THEIR NUMBERS UP - ITS LIKE OBAMAS IMMIGRATION POLICY; JUST LET EVERYBODY IN.
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02 Aug, 2013 by Anonymous
After I talked to Jason about the matter he was going to handle for me, i felt like i made a good choice. I paid him a retainer of $500 and he was quick to deposit my check. The money was out of my account within hours of me handing it over to him. I talked to him once when the debt collectors kept calling me and i assume he got them to stop calling me. That's about all i can say he helped with. I have no idea what he did to help my case . He Never returned my calls or emails. My fiancee went to his office and asked him to call me with an update. Never happened. So when i received letters stating my debt was with a different collection agency i gave up trying to get my lawyer on the phone.
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24 Feb, 2024 by Anthony demarco
Peter never followed up with me and took my money.
I called him when he told me to and he never followed back with me via email he said he was busy
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27 Apr, 2016 by Sean
This guy is a FRAUD! Literally billed me for a year and a half and resolved no motions! Ended relationship when he drained $2.6K and refused to itemize bill! Do not approach unless you want to be a broke loser like me!
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12 Jan, 2015 by Sean
Not impressed! Used to file chapter 7 which did get discharged, however some complications came about afterward. I have tried every week for six weeks & April Little will not return emails, texts, voice mails & never at the office, just disappeared! I referred her business & she took money from the client & would not return phone calls as well. My referral ended up showing up at April's house just to get a response.
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19 Jun, 2017 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Agster to file a divorce. We signed the paperwork and he said he would file it soon thereafter. However, 6 months later, it was still not filed. We had another attorney graciously step in and help us, and did not charge us any more money since Mr. Agster basically stole our money. You will regret every using Ian Agster as an attorney,
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24 Sep, 2024 by Melissa
Zero out of 10 recommend Mr. Haskett. My experience with him was disgusting. I had to deal with perverted comments and unsolicited sexual advances made by him on countless occasions. But on top of that, the man stole my retainer money and did not do ONE minute of work on my case which caused me to not only lose my case but go bankrupt. I will see to everything in my power that this man no longer is able to practice in the state of California but in the meantime, DO NOT HIRE JONATHAN BLAIR HASKETT!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Shawn Jaffer and there attorneys are not litigation lawyers to represent you in credit bureau lawsuits. They do not represent you to the best of there ability or represent you in your best interest. I wasted 31/2 years of disputes and cfpb complaints in 8 months hiring These incompetent lawyers since January 2024. They file motions to withdraw from your case or motions to dismiss your case
with excuses. They don't always take your phone calls. In my opinion These attorneys don't work for you to win, there against you. Think twice before you hire this firm. Speak to many different lawyers first before jumping in with this firm..you may end up botching your case up using I say this lightly, don't waste your time, there not skilled enough in the fcra litigation business. You can decide..when they lose or dismiss your case.
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
