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30 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Maegan, help me out whit my chapter 7 bankruptcy case. I thought I'd never get out of debt and she gave me another chance to start over. There's been such a relief for me and my family. Thank you so much.
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22 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Maegan was amazingly supportive throughout a very tough process for me. She is incredibly knowledgable and detailed, as well as kind and understanding. She never once made me feel bad about my situation. I respect her tremendously and recommend her without hesitation!
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05 May, 2024 by Janette
Some time ago I lost my job, my apartment and my way of life. I was despondent and in debt that I could not pay. The creditors were calling and I had no answers it was beyond stressful. I googled and found MDR and with it Meagan Hurley she was so knowledgeable, prompt and patient with me through the process. She came in like a knight in shining armor and saved me. I am now slowly but surely rebuilding my credit and have her to thank for the opportunity to start over. Thank you from the bottom of my debt free heart!
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13 Feb, 2018 by Anonymous
I was transferred to and spoke with attorney Grolman because another attorney in his firm replied to my question posted on Avvo. Attorney Grolman took time to understand my legal issue, was very empathetic and provided invaluable advice. He did so knowing that I was outside of his geographic service area, and that I would not be able to hire him. He also asked to keep him posted on a progress of my legal case. Super attorney! Super firm!
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02 Jan, 2015 by Bob
Provided me with an excellent analysis of my problem, and methodically presented options and a plan of action. Very responsive. A successful outcome.
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28 Dec, 2014 by Bari
Our experience with Ira was wonderful! He was totally professional, very competent and dealt with our issue in a timely manner!
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13 Apr, 2024 by Gerry mcdonald
CANT GO WRONG WITH SHAPIRO AND ASSOCI...I'VE NOW THEM FOR YEARS THE BEST DANS THE MAN
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22 Sep, 2023 by Serg
I highly recommend Shapiro & Associates; they are an outstanding group of people who are dedicated to taking care of federal employees who are injured and seek compensation and benefits. During my case, Rhea, Gina, and Sam were very sensitive and hands-on each and every time I called in for questions or concerns on my case. They followed up with me after every doctor's appointment I had to make sure the services were adequate. This group of people are great and truly cares about their work and the needs of every client. I can't say enough about these great folks.
Sergio Ugazio
Retired DHS ICE Agent
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18 Sep, 2023 by George morrissette
22 Aug, 2020 by Zahra
Attorney Rittershaus is not only a rare find, but also a delight to work with. I first hired him in 2015, after I exhausted myself with the search for an attorney. When I first met him, I was overwhelmed by his warmth and graciousness, and after that with his dedication to my case, his skillfulness, understanding, and going more than an extra mile for me. Attorney and guardian Angel is golden combination, particularly when it comes to settlements that are not respected by one party. I trusted my ex-husband when it came to a divorce and went to a mediator with him. Hoooowever Ex-husbands with a new wife can have a tendency to not respect alimony settlement, that are done through only a mediator. That is particularly so, if they have their own company and can maneuver money around. Ethan produced exactly the result I wished for, even though the case ended up more difficult than originally expected, and my ex had hired an attorney who had far more years of experience than Attorney Rittershaus. My particular wish was to have the case conducted with love and respect. That was the main reason I was not able to hire another attorney. Well, I got all that I wished for and even more.
I hired attorney Rittershaus again recently, and he surprised me even more. I was not in the US and needed Documents in Germany, and I needed them fast. He did the impossible and in the most speedy manner. I also needed a letter stating a certain Law in the US. Attorney Rittershaus composed that letter with elegance, and in a most excellent manner. The letter was written as if he is both an American and a German Attorney. He provided even references in the German Law system, that corresponded to my Case! What was even more surprising, was the speedy manner in which the Documents arrived in spite of all the obstacles that the outbreak of Covit 19 brought about.
Now I am hiring again, for yet another case, and so very appreciative to have him as my attorney again.
I know the praise I sing for Attorney Rittershaus may be hard to believe. However, once you meet him in Person, you will see that I have hardly praised attorney Rittershaus Enough!
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29 Feb, 2016 by Cheryl
There are simply not enough superlatives to describe what an exceptional attorney Ethan Rittershaus has shown himself to be. Mine is an unusual and complicated case, but Attorney Rittershaus is undaunted by it's challenges and remains undeterred, despite a regrettable vocal outburst on my part, but which he graciously took in stride. That is just how amazing he really is. He is dedicated to fairness and works tirelessly to achieve justice. My case requires intense research which he accomplishes in a timely manner. He stays in touch with me to keep me apprised of the issues concerning this litigation and to actually listen to my concerns going forward. My case has yet to be heard in court, but I have every confidence in Attorney Rittershaus as he is most dedicated to the practice of law and helping his clients above and beyond the calling of his profession. In summary, Attorney Rittershaus exemplifies the very best in our justice system and one may have complete confidence and trust with his representation.
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27 Jan, 2016 by Daniel
Attourney Rittershaus is an exceptional find with whom I have consulted with extensively over a difficult family law matter. With a dynamic understanding of the law, he has a sensible and pragmatic approach to getting the job done. He is quick, astute, and delved directly into the heart of my case.
On a personal level, attorney Rittershaus is gifted with the personal touch, and a good heart. He listens better than any lawyer with whom I have worked with over with the years, and attorney Rittershaus holds himself to high ethical standards.
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31 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
As in-house counsel for a Fortune 1000 company, Frank has served as my go-to outside counsel for bankruptcy matters, as well as a trusted resource for a broad range of other legal advice. Frank consistently provides outstanding, trustworthy, and cost-effective counsel. In addition to my high regard for his broad legal knowledge and ethical standards, I equally appreciate his keen sense of the business considerations facing in-house counsel. Beyond being a remarkable attorney, Frank is equally a great person that I would unequivocally recommend to anyone.
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25 Jul, 2014 by Anonymous
Our company reached out to Frank to handle general business litigation and bankruptcy cases and to consult on a wide variety of business law matters. What we found most helpful was his ability to quickly gain a deep understanding of the business. His understanding of complex business relationships was invaluable to the in-house team in assessing risk and making sound business decisions.
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17 Apr, 2008 by Anonymous
Frank McGinn is my #1 go-to outside counsel for a variety of business law matters. He is a terrific lawyer, has great rates, is very fair on billing, is extremely responsive and focused on producing the best possible results at the lowest possible cost. On a 0-10 scale, he is an 11. I highly recommend.
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03 Sep, 2020 by Michel
I had a real state deal . And a complex buisness purchase Anthony did a excellent job and save me a lot of money , since then I recommend Anthony to all my buisness owner friends
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23 Sep, 2024 by Naomy gonzalez
genuinely cares about his clients. He will dedicate 110% of his attention to your case. He does not see clients as dollar signs but as a persons. He wants the best outcome and will fight tooth and nail to help get his clients exonerated.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Meliza ali
Highly recommend Attorney Martin. Professional, punctual, attentive, well spoken, but most of all best representation and defense in MA!
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16 Jul, 2024 by Helen s
I used Dakota’s services a decade ago and came back again recently. He is a good ally to have on your side and very patiently answered all my questions. He went above and beyond and got me results that I was pleased with. He is able to explain issues simply and describes each step of the process, so I always felt like I was in good hands.
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10 Oct, 2024 by Gary boston
I am very grateful to Attorney Murphy for helping my family. He successfully resolved our issues and we couldn't be happier with his work. Great communications, very knowledgeable and a very nice person. I would definitely recommend him to anyone.
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05 Oct, 2024 by Andrew goldberg
Ethical, great lawyer who helped me tremendously during tremulous times. He was always readily available for communication when needed. Thank you for getting me through difficult times Darius!
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10 Dec, 2023 by Laura goode
From the very first conversation I had with Darius, I felt like he was on my side, something I didn’t feel when I was discussing my case with other attorneys.
He was ethical and supportive and made himself available throughout the ups and downs of the case. In the end, I was able to get to a successful resolution to my case and decided to retain Darius for corporate counsel.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Larissa
I was drowning in debt and was searching for the best attorney to help me. When I came in for my initial consultation, I knew right then and there that I have found one and that I need to look no further. My initial feeling did not fail. Richard did, in fact, turn out to be best of the best. He took his time to communicate the process in great detail, answered all of my questions and most importantly did not judge. He is extremely professional, talented and is a very kind human being. I truly appreciate his overall support and competence through this emotionally difficult process. On top of all of this, he always picked up the phone when I called and returned emails in a timely manner never making me wait and wonder the worst, which greatly relieved my concerns throughout this process. I would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for a genuine professional and authentic human being.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Noe mendoza
Everything mentioned about Stephen is the truth. He's very professional and kept me informed about my situation, calming me down just by speaking. The case couldn't have gone any better. He saved me like he said he would. Would highly recommend him.
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21 Aug, 2024 by Paul thompson
Quite literally saved my life from falling apart. The epitome of professionalism and knowledge. Incredible attorney. Case dismissed! Best decision I made was to call Stephen’s firm, they were empathetic, professional, responsive, and with me every step of the way. Do yourself a favor, if you find yourself on the wrong side of the law and need a good defense lawyer, contact this firm. Thank you a million times over.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Ollie s
I regret trusting this law firm after my accident. This place has changed names 3 times in the last few years, from Kelly & Accociates , to The Law Guys to what it’s currently called Michael Kelly Injury Lawers. Was made false promises by my attorney and taken advantage of costing me THOUSANDS in the long run. They knowingly took advantage of me at my lowest and are now saying the attorney that represented me as well as my case manager have left the firm and will not help me. Stay away!
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03 Sep, 2024 by Young god
Beatriz and Ian are great they communicated amazingly and made sure too stay on top of it
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27 Aug, 2024 by Kevin boyar
16 Dec, 2023 by Gregory cumings
Professional and Responsive.
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07 Aug, 2022 by George bova
Nelson and his crew are spectacular
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20 Jul, 2022 by Michael sheehan
A great law firm providing outstanding legal advice at reasonable prices.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Joe partsch
A great and hardworking individual has become like family, you’ll never go wrong with him gives his heat and soul
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09 Aug, 2024 by Joan montgomery
09 Aug, 2024 by Sara wallscetti
29 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
With many years of experienced behind him, Attorney Cruickshank is a one of a kind bankruptcy attorney. Got the job done with the ease and expertise I needed. I was also impressed to learn that his paralegal/assistant has served with him for just as many years as he has been practicing. Together they make a great team. Would totally recommend them.
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14 Jan, 2015 by Brian
Gary is calm cool and collected and helped me through a time that was not fun or easy. Has a deep command of the process and pointed me to some great contacts in the areas of accounting, financial counseling and matters related to the orderly closing of my business.
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26 Oct, 2014 by Margaret
When I was facing bankruptcy I first went to a recommended, store front, attorney on Blue Hill Ave in Mattapan who had signs promising low rates and good results. All of the customers, were, like I was, poor and desperately needing help. A few months into the legal process I found out the storefront attorney, was charging impoverished people two times the amount Gary Cruickshank charged for his services. And his office is in a very expensive rental area of Boston. Instead of taking advantage of poor people, he was truly there to help people in desperate financial straits. He was kind, affordable, consistent, respectful, a rare, and bright shining, light in the legal profession. I trusted him with the well being of my home, my business and my life; and he never let me down. He is a man of integrity, honor and grace. He made a painful, scary time in my life, manageable. And I will always be grateful.
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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
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02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
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02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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19 Feb, 2024 by B a
23 Oct, 2023 by Trina gillard
They are very helpful and understanding and I am very happy I picked them to help me and my daughter
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02 Apr, 2023 by Nicolette vennard
Definitely wouldn’t recommend. I had a slip and fall about 5 years ago… and just now got compensated, didn’t even get that much. In the time it took my injury suit closed out and settled, we went through an entire pandemic, I lost my father and my husband, I had a child, had a stroke, recovered from a stroke fully, was diagnosed with a heart condition and was no longer a minor. I still can’t believe how long it took. When I first called to start speaking with an attorney they said 12-18 months for payment and closure of the case. 5 YEARS later. Here we are. Wow. If you want a shark for an attorney who actually cares about you and your case, I don’t recommend Simon and Simon. Especially cause they took almost 2/3rds of my settlement money after I’ve been suffering for 5 years.
Today, I spoke to a gentleman from Simon and Simon after they had reviewed my review. We were able to have a conversation and spoke about the issues I had put above. He did tell me that he would speak to a few people about a communication issue and try to have that resolved in hopes this would help people in the future using Simon and Simon. As I appreciate the call and conversation about the issues I spoke of, I do not feel as if this review is wrong. I have chosen to keep this review up because even though I had a discussion with a representative, my issues still happened. And I do believe that other people should be made aware and have the opportunity to see how others were treated. I appreciate your time today, however I will not be removing this review. Thank you.
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19 Sep, 2024 by Cyril elenda
19 Sep, 2024 by Md jibon mahamud
18 Sep, 2024 by Kenny frank ntwali
08 Oct, 2023 by John yu
Every year Boston magazine publishes the results for top attorneys in Boston from different legal specialties, from business and criminal law to family and employment law. If there are top 100 attorneys; Edward Wayland would be voted as the top 10 WORST attorneys in Boston. I'm very grateful I had made the right decision to terminate him for ineffectiveness of his counsel. About few years ago, To today's day, I never regretted (terminating) firing Edward Wayland.
He almost ruined my life and my freedom. lack of communication, Failure to exercise diligence, ineffectiveness of his counsel, and Incompetence, Incompetence, and Incompetence. I'm in the process of filing a complaint against him to the Massachusetts Board of Bar Overseer; Attorney and Consumer Assistance Program (ACAP), I think he should get his license suspended or revoked. (everything I stated here is true except for the top 10 worst attorneys).
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01 Nov, 2022 by Cindy allen
I would like to share with everyone the extremely positive experience we had with Attorney Edward Wayland. We were "in the weeds" and getting "bullied" by opposing counsel. Edward just calmly and rationally cut through "the sideshow" intended to distract and turned the situation around 180 degrees. Most importantly Edward held to his integrity and achieved a "just" outcome. I am happy to speak with anyone directly as this is a real experience. You can contact Edward for my details.
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01 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous
This is a review of Peter Bilowz, Esq. of Goulston & Storrs. I cannot recommend him because of his personality, laziness, and unethical behavior.
I employed him because I had a problem with my housing voucher through a Boston housing agency. Unfortunately, he has a neurotic need to feel superior to clients of lower income. This he demonstrated in numerous ways. Although I may have lower income, I have letters of recommendation from some very illustrious people, including two Presidents of the United States. Thus, I am atypical.
Mr. Bilowz threatened me in the middle of our work by saying "Do you want me to represent you?" I did not give him provocation for saying that. I found him to be an arrogant and egotistical prima donna. We had an argument during which it was apparent he was not representing me aggressively. At one point, I said, "Whose side are you on--mine or [an employee of the housing agency]?" I have had several lawyers represent me in the past, and we always had good working relationships.
I also have done a great deal of legal research in the past, including writing an appellate brief. This leads to my next issue--Bilowz's laziness. I did 95% of the work in the case. Mr. Bilowz put a minimal amount of work into the case--maybe he thought he could get away with that. He did not advocate for me aggressively.
Recently, I discovered that the legal clinic Mr. Bilowz is working with is partnering with the housing agency, which was my adversary! Thus, Bilowz had a conflict of interest which he did not disclose. No wonder he did not pursue my case aggressively! Not only can I not recommend him--I think he should be disciplined for his behavior.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Bankruptcy Lawyer Can Do for You
A bankruptcy lawyer specializes in helping individuals and businesses manage overwhelming debt by filing for bankruptcy or exploring alternatives to bankruptcy. They guide clients through the complex legal process of discharging or restructuring debts, represent them in court, and work to protect assets such as homes and cars. Bankruptcy lawyers can also help stop creditor harassment, wage garnishment, and foreclosures through bankruptcy protections.
If you're facing financial hardship, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you decide whether filing for bankruptcy is the right option and assist you through the legal process.
When Should I Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a bankruptcy lawyer in the following situations:
- Unmanageable debt: If you're unable to pay your bills and debts are piling up, a lawyer can help you explore options such as Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
- Foreclosure or repossession: If your home is at risk of foreclosure or your vehicle is in danger of being repossessed, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you use bankruptcy protections to prevent this and potentially reorganize your debts.
- Wage garnishment: If your wages are being garnished, filing for bankruptcy can stop garnishments and allow you to regain control of your finances.
- Creditor harassment: If creditors are constantly calling or sending collection notices, a bankruptcy lawyer can stop these actions by filing for bankruptcy, which enacts an automatic stay that halts collection activities.
- Small business debt: If your business is struggling with debt and cannot meet financial obligations, a lawyer can help you file for Chapter 11 (reorganization) or Chapter 7 (liquidation) bankruptcy.
- Medical debt or credit card debt: If you have large amounts of unsecured debt like medical bills or credit card balances, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you seek relief through Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
Hiring a bankruptcy lawyer early in the process can prevent further financial damage and help you choose the best legal option for debt relief.
What Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Do?
A bankruptcy lawyer provides a range of services to help individuals and businesses handle their debts. Their responsibilities often include:
- Evaluating your financial situation: Assessing your income, assets, debts, and expenses to determine if bankruptcy is the right option and which type of bankruptcy (Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11) best suits your situation.
- Filing bankruptcy petitions: Preparing and filing the necessary documents to initiate your bankruptcy case, ensuring that all legal requirements are met.
- Stopping creditor harassment: Once the bankruptcy case is filed, an automatic stay is enacted, which stops creditors from pursuing collection efforts. A lawyer ensures this protection is applied immediately.
- Representing you in court: Representing you in court proceedings, including meetings with creditors and any hearings related to your case.
- Negotiating with creditors: In Chapter 13 or Chapter 11 bankruptcies, negotiating a repayment plan that restructures your debts and allows you to manage payments more effectively.
- Advising on asset protection: Guiding you on how to protect certain assets, such as your home or retirement savings, through available bankruptcy exemptions.
- Explaining the impact on your credit: Informing you about how bankruptcy will affect your credit and advising on steps to rebuild your credit post-bankruptcy.
How Are Bankruptcy Lawyers Paid?
Bankruptcy lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways depending on the complexity of the case and the type of bankruptcy being filed. Common payment structures include:
- Flat fee: Many bankruptcy lawyers charge a flat fee for handling Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases. This fee usually covers the entire process, from preparing and filing paperwork to representing you in court.
- Hourly rate: For more complex cases, such as Chapter 11 bankruptcy (often used by businesses), some lawyers charge an hourly rate. Hourly rates typically range from $150 to $500 or more.
- Retainer: In cases where ongoing legal services are required, such as in Chapter 11 bankruptcies or complex Chapter 13 cases, a lawyer may request a retainer, which is an upfront payment billed against as the lawyer works on the case.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer upfront, as bankruptcy law requires lawyers to disclose all fees and ensure they are reasonable and fair.
How Much Does a Bankruptcy Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a bankruptcy lawyer varies depending on the type of bankruptcy and the complexity of the case. General cost estimates include:
- Chapter 7 bankruptcy: For individuals, legal fees usually range from $1,000 to $3,500. This flat fee generally covers the entire process.
- Chapter 13 bankruptcy: For individuals filing Chapter 13, legal fees typically range from $2,500 to $6,000. This cost is higher because of the additional work required to create and manage the repayment plan.
- Chapter 11 bankruptcy (for businesses): Chapter 11 bankruptcy is more complex and usually more expensive, with legal fees ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the size of the business and the complexity of the debt restructuring.
- Filing fees: In addition to legal fees, there are also court filing fees, which are $338 for Chapter 7 and $313 for Chapter 13 as of 2024.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to understand what services are included and whether payment plans are available.
Top Questions to Ask a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Before hiring a bankruptcy lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the experience and knowledge to handle your case effectively. Key questions to ask include:
-
What experience do you have with bankruptcy cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether it's Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 bankruptcy. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges a flat fee or hourly rate, and ask for a detailed breakdown of costs, including filing fees and additional expenses. -
Which type of bankruptcy is best for me?
Ask the lawyer to explain whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or Chapter 11 is the best option based on your financial situation and long-term goals. -
What debts can be discharged?
Ask which of your debts will be forgiven through bankruptcy and which debts (such as certain taxes or student loans) may not be dischargeable. -
How long will the process take?
Bankruptcy cases can take time to resolve, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last, from filing to discharge. -
Will I be able to keep my assets?
Ask if you will be able to keep important assets, such as your home or car, and what exemptions might apply. -
What happens after bankruptcy?
Ask about the impact of bankruptcy on your credit score and what steps you can take to rebuild your credit after the bankruptcy is finalized.
How to Check the Credibility of a Bankruptcy Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable bankruptcy lawyer, follow these steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for bankruptcy experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in bankruptcy law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and ability to handle bankruptcy cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on bankruptcy matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for lawyers who are members of organizations such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) or who have specialized bankruptcy law certifications.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a bankruptcy lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- List of debts: Prepare a detailed list of all your debts, including credit cards, personal loans, medical bills, and any secured debts such as mortgages or car loans.
- Income and expense records: Bring documents that show your current income, such as pay stubs or tax returns, and a list of your monthly expenses, including rent, utilities, and other essential costs.
- Asset information: Provide information on any assets you own, such as your home, car, investments, or other valuable property.
- Credit reports: If possible, bring copies of your credit reports to give the lawyer a clear view of your financial situation.
- Questions for the lawyer: Prepare a list of questions you have about the bankruptcy process, the lawyer’s fees, and what to expect after filing for bankruptcy.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
