Lawyers map
>350
experienced lawyers
Filter by
22 Sep, 2024 by Manny betinis
Excellent followup. Very prompt. Very professional. Great team & great service. EFHARISTO!
Read more
15 Sep, 2024 by Bill tsoukalas
I am a real estate agent with the Prime Real Estate Group, and I always refer my clients to Niko Marneris for all of their real estate transactions because he and his associates are professional, knowledgeable, and compassionate to their clients needs! I was able to witness this type of care first hand as I recently just purchased my new home. There was such attention to every detail and a quick response to any question I had! This group is truly top notch and I will continue to send my clients in their direction!
Read more
30 Aug, 2024 by Vicki graff
Niko, Shayla, and the entire team at Marneris Law were terrific with our condo purchase. We never met any of them in person, yet we felt a personal connection. We've bought three houses before but were completely unfamiliar with condos. Marneris Law scrutinized all the documents, knew what questions to ask, sought clarifications and details from the condominium association, and pushed every issue until they were certain all our questions and concerns were addressed to our satisfaction. They protected our interests and ensured the closing proceeded smoothly. We recommend their services highly!
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Kevin yim
I'm so glad I contacted Midwest Injury Lawyers for my Grandma's injury case. Brennan handled her case with the utmost professionalism. It didn't seem like he was just doing his job, but that he actually cared - he was always available to answer questions and kept us well advised every step of the way.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Duane thomas
I am very satisfied with the service provided by Midwest from the kindness shown throughout the process, to the settlement itself. Thank you Attorney karl.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Alberto jose guillen contreras
Abogado Sam excelente siempre me tuvo informado me indicó todo lo que tenia que hacer excelente en todo muchas gracias por todo
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Kevin yim
I'm so glad I contacted Midwest Injury Lawyers for my Grandma's injury case. Brennan handled her case with the utmost professionalism. It didn't seem like he was just doing his job, but that he actually cared - he was always available to answer questions and kept us well advised every step of the way.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Duane thomas
I am very satisfied with the service provided by Midwest from the kindness shown throughout the process, to the settlement itself. Thank you Attorney karl.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Alberto jose guillen contreras
Abogado Sam excelente siempre me tuvo informado me indicó todo lo que tenia que hacer excelente en todo muchas gracias por todo
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Kevin yim
I'm so glad I contacted Midwest Injury Lawyers for my Grandma's injury case. Brennan handled her case with the utmost professionalism. It didn't seem like he was just doing his job, but that he actually cared - he was always available to answer questions and kept us well advised every step of the way.
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Duane thomas
I am very satisfied with the service provided by Midwest from the kindness shown throughout the process, to the settlement itself. Thank you Attorney karl.
Read more
02 Aug, 2024 by Alberto jose guillen contreras
Abogado Sam excelente siempre me tuvo informado me indicó todo lo que tenia que hacer excelente en todo muchas gracias por todo
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by Alishia dingle
Great law firm. Bardia helped me avoid a foreclosure on my property by successfully dismissing the bank’s foreclosure complaint, which bought me enough time to sell the property. Highly recommend!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Mike visek
Excellent experience with Bardia and the whole team at The Law Center. Very professional, honest and helpful. If you need any help - don't hesitate and call these experts. Thanks again guys.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Demetrius rasberry
The Law Center has truly helped me. They helped save my late mom's house from foreclosure and was able to secure enough time for me to sell the property. In the end, the foreclosure case was dismissed and the bank was paid in full. These guys are the best. Thank you
Read more
08 Sep, 2024 by Alishia dingle
Great law firm. Bardia helped me avoid a foreclosure on my property by successfully dismissing the bank’s foreclosure complaint, which bought me enough time to sell the property. Highly recommend!
Read more
05 Sep, 2024 by Mike visek
Excellent experience with Bardia and the whole team at The Law Center. Very professional, honest and helpful. If you need any help - don't hesitate and call these experts. Thanks again guys.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Demetrius rasberry
The Law Center has truly helped me. They helped save my late mom's house from foreclosure and was able to secure enough time for me to sell the property. In the end, the foreclosure case was dismissed and the bank was paid in full. These guys are the best. Thank you
Read more
22 Jul, 2024 by Robert gerstein
James DiQuattro is very professional and an excellent attorney
I would whole heartedly recommend him
Read more
21 Mar, 2024 by Donna aguirre
Mr.James DiQuattro is an awesome attorney, he helped me win my case. He was always professional, and showed he genuinely cared about my case, he is a very encouraging and passionate person, and he explained every detail of the case and always finished up with asking me if I had any questions. He is truthful about everything pertaining to the case, he explains everything things in layman terms so you can understand. If you need a honest, reliable, some one that will work hard on your case and that looks at all and I mean all details , Mr. James DiQuattro is the best attorney to retain. He will fight hard for you, as an attorney. I recommend Mr. James DiQuattro to anyone looking for an excellent, experienced, and exceptional attorney. James DiQuattro is the best in my eyes. God forbid anything criminal should come up in my life again . He would be the first person I call. Thank you, Mr. DiQuattro.
Donna Aguirre
Read more
27 Feb, 2024 by Too pack
My first time using this firm we won our first case. Will be using him again. Thanks again for the good work and waiting on the next project we have to tackle.
Read more
18 Dec, 2022 by Ron
Steven was great to work with. I had a crypto tax issue that Steven was able to review and resolve. I on my own would not have been able to navigate this issue with the IRS and State. Having a trained expert work on this was such a relieve. The case took longer than usual due to the pandemic. Steven made sure to keep me updated during the entire process with phone updates. We were able to get a favorable decision. It a big relieve and win for us.
I highly recommend Steven Leahy to work on your tax issue. I can't promise you will get a similar favorable outcome but you will have a great attorney working on your case, which is the biggest part of getting the best outcome.
Read more
31 Mar, 2020 by Anonymous
Steven Leahy is an excellent attorney! I hired him to assist me with a tax issue and he is helping in an amazing way. He sent out a report to me and knew so much detail of about Tax Law. Steven Leahy told me different solutions and in addition to being an unbelievable attorney, he is a great guy. I am so glad I hired him and I definitely would recommend people with tax issues to hire him!
Read more
19 Jun, 2019 by Ramon
Atty. Steven A. Leahy PC is direct, honest and friendly. He can only tell you what he can do. Very professional!!!! And he delivered the solution and the tremendous relief from our burdens. He and his very efficient team give us too much satisfaction and happiness. I am proud to recommend The Law Office of Steven A. Leahy PC to all. Thank you very much for the H E L P!!!!
Read more
05 May, 2020 by Anonymous
“Mr: David Siegel and his team represented my family, It was one of the most positive experiences I've had with ANY service. They guided me through the process, and was always available for questions before AND after the completion of our case. I was literally drowning in debt, and after consulting with Mr: Siegel's office, we could finally breath again. I wish I happen so fast the entire process that we feel and are sure he is the best. They changed my and my family's lives by helping us get a fresh start financially! I would recommend them in a heartbeat to my friends and family. Thank you sincerely from me and my family!” Also Linda and Adriana and the representative you send to court with us were excellent ! thank you all and God blessed you Mr Siegel you are The best we will always recommend you any where!!
Read more
19 Aug, 2019 by Bob
David and his staff are highly professional. Very knowledgeable and responsive to the unique needs of each client. I'm very grateful for their service.
Read more
04 Feb, 2019 by Maria
Thanks to David Siegel and Associates there is a light at the end of the tunnel! If you're losing sleep over debt call David Siegel! You wont regret it!
Read more
24 Oct, 2023 by Latasha
I filed chapter 13 and it started rocky but after meeting with Tina and Mr. Adams and the process being explained. I got a discharge paid in full from the court. I was able to keep my car and learned so much financially. The firm had great very responsive staff and helped make a scary time in my life easy and more beneficial than I can express.
Read more
20 Aug, 2018 by Tracy
After months of talking to bankruptcy attorneys and getting the door slammed in our face because we were above the median income, we almost gave up on finding a lawyer to help us file for bankruptcy. All the lawyers I spoke to did not care about our situation just saw our income. Then I came across Robert J Adams and Associates. We decided to give it one last shot. Robert and Tina Adams didn’t just look at our income, they listened to why we needed to file with all our medical expenses. Our son needs so much special medical care and our insurance does not cover a lot of it. We were drowning in medical bills and they took our case. Robert and Tina Adams are very knowledgeable and genuinely care about helping people. They made our bankruptcy case easy and successful due to their ability to deal with this specialized and complex case. Without Robert and Tina Adams we would not be able to get my son the help he needs. They worked very hard and beat the means test. My experience with Robert J Adams and Associates can be summed up as one of the most positive things that has happened to us in a long time. God answered our prayers. I recommend anyone in financial troubles to speak to the Best Bankruptcy Law firm in Chicago even if you are above the median level. They will fight for you. We could not have had better representation. They are the best. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all of your hard work, efforts and dedication.
Read more
04 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Robert J. Adams and Associates were easy to work with and helped my family and I through a very tough situation. I am thankful for the exceptional service rendered and will certainly recommend them to friends and family. I appreciate the follow-up and ease of knowing if I have questions, they are quick with providing answers. Overall, I am pleased!
Read more
28 Jun, 2024 by Isaac gutierrez
Great service and great prices,
Will definitely use in the future.
No hidden fees and communication was phenomenal.
Hard working and punctual!
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Bobby walton
Great Attorney gets the job done and is going to fight aslong as you are ready to battle
Read more
09 May, 2024 by Christopher garcia
Jennifer did an amazing job with my case! She made sure I understood everything that was happening during the whole process. She fought for me to get the best outcome and I greatly appreciate how kind and caring she was through it all!
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by Lindsaykathy57
Jean Huang is an excellent Lawyer. She assisted me when I actually had to attend the court hearing for my bankrupcy. She has such patience when dealing with you and she encourages you. She takes her time to review everything you need to know for the hearing. She even knew I was nervous so she made me comfortable before the hearing. She was professional at all times. She notified of everything I needed to know. I would definitely recommend her to anyone. I am grateful that I found her office to work with me. It was the right and the best choice. She is wonderful.
Read more
22 Dec, 2023 by Anonymous
The Law Offices of Stuart B. Handelman is the best office for handling bankruptcies! My husband and I weren't sure where to even start but when we called we were greeted by Kelly Smith who guided us through the initial process. She laid everything out in the most simple step by step process and broke things down in a way that was sure to set us up for success. Once we provided the needed information our case was handed over to Jean Huang. Working with Jean truly made the rest of the process even more seamless! She is diligent, dedicated, thorough and an absolute pleasure to work with. The team gets the job done! Thanks to them my family is on the path to bettering our lives and I feel like a more responsible human. They are more than happy to work with you in a very approach way. I would absolutely recommend this office for anyone considering filing for bankruptcy.
Read more
05 Dec, 2023 by Tim
Like so many others my wife and I had the misfortune to find ourselves in a position where we finally had to “bite the bullet” and file for a Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Having never had the prior occasion to employ the services of an attorney we went with the recommendation of people that we trust and retained the law office of Stuart B Handelman. We could not have made a better decision. Mr. Handelman, along with his associate attorney Jean Huang, provided us with the most professional advice that we could have hoped for. Their courtesy, knowledge of the requirements and protocols in his area of law and timeliness in their communications not only made my wife and I more than satisfied with their efforts but, and I think most importantly, went a long way in putting us a relative ease in what is a very stressful situation. If the need for legal representation were to arise in the future we would definitely use the law firm of Stuart Handelman, with his associate attorney Jean Huang and would recommend them enthusiastically to anyone in need of top notch attorneys.
Read more
23 Sep, 2023 by Pam porter
It's been a WONDERFUL BLESSING WHILE WORKING WITH VOGELZANG LAW WITH OUR CASE. EVERYONE IS SO PROFESSIONAL AND KNOWLEDGEABLE . WHENEVER I CALL THE OFFICE, IF THE ATTORNEY IS NOT AVAILABLE AT THAT TIME, THEIR RESPONSE IS IMMEDIATELY..I RECOMMEND THIS COMPANY
PAMELA PORTER
Read more
14 May, 2021 by Justin gustafson
I can’t say enough about the professionalism and attention to detail of this firm. Everyone really cares about their clients, highly recommended
Read more
10 Feb, 2021 by Jim mcmanus
29 Sep, 2022 by Marcos
I had the good fortune of being represented by Salvador Lopez in a recent home purchase, and I cannot be more satisfied with my experience! He and everyone at his office were, not only extremely professional, but also amazingly accommodating as well. Someone was always available to answer any questions that I had. Salvador was incredibly knowledgeable on all facets of the law and continuously worked to achieve the best deal on my home purchase. I highly recommend Robson & Lopez LLC
Read more
12 Aug, 2020 by Mitchell
My experience with Salvador is that of hope. Salvador was referred to my family and it honestly added hope to a situation for too difficult cope with. In 2015, my parents along with my sister, seemed to had been fighting a losing battle to save a home. Salvador took up my parents' foreclosure case and ensured that he would do anything in his power to secure the best possible solution. Through the years, the services of his office were always so polite, so professional, and on top of that, they speak Spanish. The bilingual staff, helped to create comfort for my mom so that she can fully understand the process and the work Salvador's office was doing for my family. Whether it was phone calls, even in person visits, Salvador was always very thorough and explained to us what was going on. Cutting to the chase, 5 years later, my parents were able to sell the property and ultimately put an end to this nightmare. Words cannot describe the gratitude I have for the services that can now help my mom sleep better at night, as a son, you hope for the best for your mother in her later years and I can honestly say that thanks to Salvador, my mom can was was saved from such a huge financial disaster. Thank you kindly.
Read more
17 Jul, 2020 by Sherrie
Mr. Lopez did an outstanding job assisting me with the foreclosure sale of my home in Illinois although I lived in another state. He was very thorough explaining every step of the process. I especially appreciated the fact that the process was completed in 30 days. I communicated with him via phone and email. I was concerned about having to come back to Chicago for closing and that was not necessary which was a tremendous load off of me given my financial state at that time. I recommend him because he loves working with people and does not belittle his clients or make you feel rushed to make decisions. Given I have never met him in person, I was truly impressed with the genuine and honest character of this individual. Great overall service.
Read more
31 Dec, 2022 by Ray perez
Everything I needed to know was thoroughly explained. Extremely pleasant conversation regarding my case.
Read more
12 Oct, 2022 by Kevin b
highly recommend
Read more
13 Mar, 2022 by Gustavo lara
Very good attorneys highly recommend it
Read more
25 Jan, 2012 by A.
I owed a company a nearly $10,000. Ricardo negotiated a settlement that was a fraction, much less than half, of the amount. Hopefully, I'll never have need for his services again, but if I do, he's my guy.
Read more
16 Jan, 2012 by Diana
I had to file for bankruptcy and Cortez helped me do it. I just wanted to get it over with as soon as possible and he made it happen. He was always easy to get a hold of and always available to answer any questions I had right away.
Read more
23 Nov, 2010 by Dave
He handled all my questions and gave me good advice
regarding my situation
Read more
01 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
I’ve never had an issue with Troy. He’s an amazing attorney who cares and understands his clients needs! He is the best in Chicago and surrounded don’t area! He is a God Fearing Attorney who doesn’t just take your money but gives his time and heart to his clients!
Read more
04 Aug, 2021 by Maureen flanagan
I used Jim Lowry for services of Will/Trust.. He's efficient and responsive with any questions I had. Also, was very affordable and helpful through a tough process for me.
Read more
22 Oct, 2018 by Robert prestandrea
I met James through my bankruptcy attorney
During the bank fraud forclosures in 2010. He assisted me to stay in my forclosed home for 5 years, to recover some of the financial loss I incured when the bank kept my escrow money through the forclosure process. I highly recommend Jim for any issues you may have. In addition I found him to be genuinely concerned with my well being. I also loved his sense of humor.
Thanks Jim
I appreciate you.
Rob P
Read more
17 Jun, 2015 by Anthony lesley
CJ Lamb was outstanding with my representation. There were some challenges that were a result of the condo association not settling a civil suit that CJ navigated to keep the deal together and also went far and above in chasing down UPS trucks literally to obtain paperwork that was supposed to be delivered overnight but was not.
He was always available and responsive I would absouluetly reccomend CJ to anyone looking for a great real estate l;awyer
Read more
20 Feb, 2015 by Lorie
CJ was my attorney through my entire home purchasing experience. In being a first time home buyer, I was extremely nervous and felt out of my element. CJ made sure that I thoroughly understood each part of the process and that I felt comfortable. Whenever I had questions at any point he was very responsive and always got back to me in a timely manner.
Read more
24 Feb, 2024 by Dorothy
Whether assisting in personal matters or representing my interest in real estate transactions, Agnes has shown to be the utmost professional. As an experienced attorney, she is a great communicator and a skilled negotiator.
Agnes listens to your concerns and offers the most beneficial advice for your needs.
She has a dedicated team of assistants supporting her in all transactions. They are prompt to respond to your questions, professional, and knowledgeable.
Agnes has been working on my behalf for many years, and it is my pleasure to recommend her services to anyone looking for a professional and dedicated legal representation.
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Barbara
Agnes is an exceptional real estate attorney !
Extremely Professional ! The girls who work at office very helpful ! Always ready to help and answer all questions! There was pleasure to work with Pogorzeski & Associates! Highly recommend!
Read more
28 Nov, 2017 by Kim
Kurt and his firm handle our commercial leases as well as being an excellent source of advice on various legal matters. Kurt listens. And is thoughtful in his responses. He does his homework, and doesn't hesitate to do whatever research is necessary to give us the best advice. He doesn't just tell you what you want to hear: he tells you the truth, and then gives you options that are fair, honest, and ethical. Plus, he has a good sense of humor, which is helpful when we are dealing with tough legal situations. The only time I didn't listen to him I lived to regret it. And then he still helped me through a very tricky lease/tenant situation.
Read more
07 Oct, 2008 by Anonymous
He told me the way it was, without a bunch of legalese. Very sharp, very easy-going.
Read more
22 Oct, 2009 by Anonymous
Erik, I don't even know where to begin. When I met with Erik and explained my situation he just got it right away. He put together a plan of action to address the problem explained to me what it all meant. He kept me informed all the way through the process and listened to me as well. What I thought would be an exhaustive process was resolved in a timely manner in my favor. I would highly recommend Erik he has a genuine concern for your outcome. Thanks
Read more
15 Oct, 2009 by Tim
Erik was referred to me by a close friend. He was under no obligation to assist me, and it was rather short notice - yet he set his work aside to review my case and assist me with no promise of compensation. Erik worked with the necessary parties to ensure everything was taken care of and communicated throughout the process.
Read more
22 Dec, 2016 by Omar
In the years I have known Ahmad Nofal, both as a friend and as a colleague, I am routinely impressed by his attention to detail, his diligence, and professionalism. Mr. Nofal is amongst Chicago's brightest stars in the legal profession.
Read more
24 Feb, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. David Nelson is a very professional individual who kept us informed at all times. He is trustworthy, honest and he knows what he is doing. I would definitely recommend him for any workman's comp case.
Read more
03 Jul, 2014 by Carter
Robert successfully recovered damages in a challenging case extending 10+ years and involving a transient defendant.
Read more
06 Sep, 2014 by John
Mr. Weissman's experience, knowledge and caring for his client's best interests make him stand out among his peers. He has exceptionally handled everything for me from corporate law to business transactions to personal estate matters. His professional demeanor and trustworthy nature create confidence that your legal matters are in the hands of a friend who will excel in protecting your interests. I feel fortunate to have found Mr. Weissman as my attorney and friend.
Read more
22 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Rebecca did an outstanding job in representing my company in fraudulent transfer litigation asserted against it in a major Chapter 11 case.
Read more
20 Oct, 2015 by Brad
Before retaining Brad as my attorney, I was getting nowhere with efforts to negotiate settlement with my bank, due to a default on a line of credit. Brad, helped me re-establish credibility with the bank and brought them back to the negotiating table. Through a very favorable settlement, Brad single-handedly helped me relieve enough debt to breath new life into my business of 15 years. While I appreciated Brad's high-level of experise in the field and his consultative approach, I'm most grateful for the genuine care he showed for myself and my family's well being after a settlement was reached. For any and all parties looking for counsel from a very high-level, and equally high-integrity professional, Brad Berish comes with my strongest recommendation.
Read more
19 Jan, 2018 by Lisa
She was educating me on my choices and gave me fair and healthy feedback she is very smart and I’m so glad to have had her help me on my journey.
Read more
07 Nov, 2012 by Anonymous
Mike helped me with a financial matter I was dealing with. He explained the law to me clearly, helped me address my situation, and treated me as if I was his only client. I was thrilled at the results we obtained.
Read more
19 Mar, 2021 by Damaris
Excelente atención, se preocupa por resolver los problemas, está pendiente de los clientes si se necesita aplicar según sea el caso.
Estoy muy contenta con esta oficina.
Read more
Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
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.
