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18 Dec, 2024 by Maria rivera
If you need a great lawyer, look no further. They're a great help.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Madison giza
Excellent lawyers! Brennan helped me with my dog bite case he did such a good job and updated me on everything. I will be recommending them to others that might need a lawyer I highly recommend !!
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29 Oct, 2024 by Rosie moore
21 Jun, 2024 by Joseph moran
I’ve Been Dealing With Richard Murphy And His Team And I Have To Say They Have Been Phenomenal. We All Know That If Your Needing Them You’ve Probably Had One Of The Worst Days Of Your Life They Get That Let Them Take Care Of You While You Deal With Everything Else!!!
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02 Jan, 2024 by Jason chmielewski
02 Nov, 2023 by Sabrina gibson
I was looking for a contract attorney and was referred to Michael Crane. He took his time with me on the phone and even researched the correct state in which I would need an attorney. I appreciated how professional he was. He gave me great advice and really made me feel at peace.
While I did not hire Michael to represent me, as it wasn't the right course of action for my situation, I did find out who would be an ideal client for him.
If you are in need of a personal injury attorney in the Chicago area, this is definitely an attorney I would consult. He is a great listener, he shows compassion and he looks for your best interest. He came highly recommended to me from a very reputable law firm.
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04 Nov, 2024 by The fbm corporation
Aaron Bryant has always been of great help for my entire family. Highly recommend!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Melissa rajcevich
Bardia is very easy to work with and extremely knowledgeable. I have used The Law Center on 2 occasions to help me with an investment property. He works quickly when you need him to and is very good at stalling when it benefits your needs. He has great communication and follow through. I trust his professional opinion and would use him again if I need to.
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02 Oct, 2024 by William agnew
04 Nov, 2024 by The fbm corporation
Aaron Bryant has always been of great help for my entire family. Highly recommend!
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18 Oct, 2024 by Melissa rajcevich
Bardia is very easy to work with and extremely knowledgeable. I have used The Law Center on 2 occasions to help me with an investment property. He works quickly when you need him to and is very good at stalling when it benefits your needs. He has great communication and follow through. I trust his professional opinion and would use him again if I need to.
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02 Oct, 2024 by William agnew
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.
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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!
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03 Jul, 2014 by Carter
Robert successfully recovered damages in a challenging case extending 10+ years and involving a transient defendant.
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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.
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28 Jan, 2025 by Daniel montalvo
Great lawyer with the best pricing! Got the case dismissed in less than 5minutes within being on the stand.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Kaylee vega
01 Oct, 2024 by Samantha esquivel
I highly recommend her! I believed that when all odds were against me until I met her. She went above and beyond for me. I feel like other lawyers should take a page out of her book because she truly is amazing at what she does. Such a confident, wise, witty, business oriented woman. I’ve beyond pleased and blessed for her help. Thank you again!!
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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
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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
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10 Feb, 2021 by Jim mcmanus
28 Aug, 2024 by Carlos alvarez
05 Aug, 2024 by Ion preguza
28 Jun, 2021 by Rye infanzon
22 Jan, 2025 by Diamond donley
I cannot recommend Attorney Vadim Glozman highly enough. My mother was facing a terrifying 10-year federal prison sentence, and thanks to his exceptional legal skills and dedication, her sentence was reduced to just one day, time considered served.
From start to finish, Vadim was incredibly responsive, supportive, and professional. He took the time to explain everything to us, kept us updated throughout the process, and gave us confidence when we needed it most. His deep knowledge of federal law and his ability to build a strong defense made all the difference in my mother’s case.
If you or a loved one are facing a federal case, Vadim Glozman is the attorney you want by your side. His expertise and commitment to his clients are unmatched.
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21 Jan, 2025 by Mostafa noureldin
I had an unusual accident about two months ago THAT resulted in court appearance request during a v inconvenient time for me -this is all besides my inexperience with traffic law / requirements - I was recommended to work with driver defense team DDT - after looking at the documents related to the case they were somewhat confident they will get it resolved to my favor - I followed their recommendations and they had it resolved mostly to my favor (alh)- I appreciate their service and time to tackle this unusual case - thanks DDT
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17 Jan, 2025 by Anthony bencini
It was good help you a lot
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17 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Stay away from this firm. They are very nice in the beginning however, they treat you poorly once you become a client. I was a client on a bankruptcy and I would ask questions while I was in this case to ensure I was missing anything. Every time I asked a question it became a battle with this attorney. He is very rude and arrogant. He belittles his clients and basically make you feels worse about the situation you are in. Stay away there are several reputable and respectful bankruptcy attorneys in the Chicagoland area.
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31 Jan, 2019 by Vladimir
I lived in Munster & had to file a Chapter 7 because of medical bills . I went to theee orher attorneys, but I decided to hire Adam after a consultation were he made me feel completely comfortable.
He was available to answer my questions & kept me informed.
I was able to get rid of $52,000 of medical bills!
Highly recommended this Firm!
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25 Apr, 2017 by Don
Bentz Holguin Law Firm LLC, specifically attorneys Adam Holguin and Jessica and Law Clerk Bryan handled my sensitive financial matter professionally and expeditiously. They walked me through each step of the procedure and provided reassurance and support. I am very pleased with my experience with Bentz Holguin Law Firm LLC and would highly recommend their services to others.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Dwayne hunter
Mr. Matthew Jones and associates of McHargue & Jones handled my case with efficiency and professionalism. Mr.Jones represented me and made sure that I always received my workman's comp benefits on time. Once everything was agreed, I was pleased with the settlement I received. I would highly recommend McHargue & Jones for anyone seeking positive results. They will provide outstanding service and a fair outcome for you.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Kelly hortin
Matthew Jones helped me navigate through the entire workman comp case and he fought hard for everything I am entitled to for compensation for my injury. I highly recommend this law firm for anyone that needs guidance and help.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Niketta jones
I have been a client of McHargue and Jones since 2020 with my first workman's comp injury and Matt Jones has been been nothing but Great through all my cases. He has always answered my questions explained everything so I understood the entire process and always made sure I was treated correctly always had my back. I have spoken highly of the firm from day one and hopefully sent some clients their way. Definitely recommend 10/10.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Dwayne hunter
Mr. Matthew Jones and associates of McHargue & Jones handled my case with efficiency and professionalism. Mr.Jones represented me and made sure that I always received my workman's comp benefits on time. Once everything was agreed, I was pleased with the settlement I received. I would highly recommend McHargue & Jones for anyone seeking positive results. They will provide outstanding service and a fair outcome for you.
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31 Dec, 2024 by Kelly hortin
Matthew Jones helped me navigate through the entire workman comp case and he fought hard for everything I am entitled to for compensation for my injury. I highly recommend this law firm for anyone that needs guidance and help.
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30 Dec, 2024 by Niketta jones
I have been a client of McHargue and Jones since 2020 with my first workman's comp injury and Matt Jones has been been nothing but Great through all my cases. He has always answered my questions explained everything so I understood the entire process and always made sure I was treated correctly always had my back. I have spoken highly of the firm from day one and hopefully sent some clients their way. Definitely recommend 10/10.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Charlene sneed
When I contacted CTA I was hopeless. My husband had been arrested for a crime and didn’t have a background. The bond was so astronomical that it was heartbreaking. After speaking with David he started to give me hope. We were assigned to Stephanie on the case and she was extremely thorough, pleading to talk to, and she listened. She listened to what we were praying for and what we wanted to happen. She let us know how she would fight to ensure that we would get the best outcome possible and that is actually what happened. The Judge did something that he had never done before and we were satisfied. I highly recommend them when you are faced with hopelessness.
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09 Nov, 2024 by King james bow down
This law firm is AWESOME. First of all they give you a personal touch. They make you feel like family. They truly work hard to win the case and to get the best outcome. In my case my son was caught with a gun with an extended clip and a beam on it. My son is no gangster but he fell into trying to keep up with his friends. However his friends how the proper credentials to carry their guns and my son did not. So my son was charged with an aggravated UUW. A felony! This law firm worked tirelessly to get the charges reduced to a UUW which then became a misdemeanor. That is amazing and thankfully now allows my son not to have that X on his record. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone in trouble and I tell you this. It actually comes at a bargain. This outcome we received was worth every penny. In fact I would have paid more. I would never use any other law firm if I ever need a lawyer again. This law firm would be my only choice. I truly trust them and they are Chicago’s Trusted Attorneys.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Felicia curry
It’s very reassuring to know that Chicago Trusted Attorneys have someone actually fighting on your behalf. Attorney Isioma excellence in client services, in-depth knowledge of the law and proficiency in critical and creative thinking was hands down proficient.
I wanted to make sure that my Attorney Isioma Ebiringah(Izzy), Ashleigh, Nicole, Kelly, and the entire Legal Team know how thankful I am for giving me another chance. Someone else may have had me throw the towel in and wait for the outcome. I would highly recommend this Law Firm.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Charlene sneed
When I contacted CTA I was hopeless. My husband had been arrested for a crime and didn’t have a background. The bond was so astronomical that it was heartbreaking. After speaking with David he started to give me hope. We were assigned to Stephanie on the case and she was extremely thorough, pleading to talk to, and she listened. She listened to what we were praying for and what we wanted to happen. She let us know how she would fight to ensure that we would get the best outcome possible and that is actually what happened. The Judge did something that he had never done before and we were satisfied. I highly recommend them when you are faced with hopelessness.
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09 Nov, 2024 by King james bow down
This law firm is AWESOME. First of all they give you a personal touch. They make you feel like family. They truly work hard to win the case and to get the best outcome. In my case my son was caught with a gun with an extended clip and a beam on it. My son is no gangster but he fell into trying to keep up with his friends. However his friends how the proper credentials to carry their guns and my son did not. So my son was charged with an aggravated UUW. A felony! This law firm worked tirelessly to get the charges reduced to a UUW which then became a misdemeanor. That is amazing and thankfully now allows my son not to have that X on his record. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone in trouble and I tell you this. It actually comes at a bargain. This outcome we received was worth every penny. In fact I would have paid more. I would never use any other law firm if I ever need a lawyer again. This law firm would be my only choice. I truly trust them and they are Chicago’s Trusted Attorneys.
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08 Nov, 2024 by Felicia curry
It’s very reassuring to know that Chicago Trusted Attorneys have someone actually fighting on your behalf. Attorney Isioma excellence in client services, in-depth knowledge of the law and proficiency in critical and creative thinking was hands down proficient.
I wanted to make sure that my Attorney Isioma Ebiringah(Izzy), Ashleigh, Nicole, Kelly, and the entire Legal Team know how thankful I am for giving me another chance. Someone else may have had me throw the towel in and wait for the outcome. I would highly recommend this Law Firm.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Charlene sneed
When I contacted CTA I was hopeless. My husband had been arrested for a crime and didn’t have a background. The bond was so astronomical that it was heartbreaking. After speaking with David he started to give me hope. We were assigned to Stephanie on the case and she was extremely thorough, pleading to talk to, and she listened. She listened to what we were praying for and what we wanted to happen. She let us know how she would fight to ensure that we would get the best outcome possible and that is actually what happened. The Judge did something that he had never done before and we were satisfied. I highly recommend them when you are faced with hopelessness.
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09 Nov, 2024 by King james bow down
This law firm is AWESOME. First of all they give you a personal touch. They make you feel like family. They truly work hard to win the case and to get the best outcome. In my case my son was caught with a gun with an extended clip and a beam on it. My son is no gangster but he fell into trying to keep up with his friends. However his friends how the proper credentials to carry their guns and my son did not. So my son was charged with an aggravated UUW. A felony! This law firm worked tirelessly to get the charges reduced to a UUW which then became a misdemeanor. That is amazing and thankfully now allows my son not to have that X on his record. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone in trouble and I tell you this. It actually comes at a bargain. This outcome we received was worth every penny. In fact I would have paid more. I would never use any other law firm if I ever need a lawyer again. This law firm would be my only choice. I truly trust them and they are Chicago’s Trusted Attorneys.
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Felicia curry
It’s very reassuring to know that Chicago Trusted Attorneys have someone actually fighting on your behalf. Attorney Isioma excellence in client services, in-depth knowledge of the law and proficiency in critical and creative thinking was hands down proficient.
I wanted to make sure that my Attorney Isioma Ebiringah(Izzy), Ashleigh, Nicole, Kelly, and the entire Legal Team know how thankful I am for giving me another chance. Someone else may have had me throw the towel in and wait for the outcome. I would highly recommend this Law Firm.
Read more
04 Dec, 2024 by Charlene sneed
When I contacted CTA I was hopeless. My husband had been arrested for a crime and didn’t have a background. The bond was so astronomical that it was heartbreaking. After speaking with David he started to give me hope. We were assigned to Stephanie on the case and she was extremely thorough, pleading to talk to, and she listened. She listened to what we were praying for and what we wanted to happen. She let us know how she would fight to ensure that we would get the best outcome possible and that is actually what happened. The Judge did something that he had never done before and we were satisfied. I highly recommend them when you are faced with hopelessness.
Read more
09 Nov, 2024 by King james bow down
This law firm is AWESOME. First of all they give you a personal touch. They make you feel like family. They truly work hard to win the case and to get the best outcome. In my case my son was caught with a gun with an extended clip and a beam on it. My son is no gangster but he fell into trying to keep up with his friends. However his friends how the proper credentials to carry their guns and my son did not. So my son was charged with an aggravated UUW. A felony! This law firm worked tirelessly to get the charges reduced to a UUW which then became a misdemeanor. That is amazing and thankfully now allows my son not to have that X on his record. I would highly recommend this law firm to anyone in trouble and I tell you this. It actually comes at a bargain. This outcome we received was worth every penny. In fact I would have paid more. I would never use any other law firm if I ever need a lawyer again. This law firm would be my only choice. I truly trust them and they are Chicago’s Trusted Attorneys.
Read more
08 Nov, 2024 by Felicia curry
It’s very reassuring to know that Chicago Trusted Attorneys have someone actually fighting on your behalf. Attorney Isioma excellence in client services, in-depth knowledge of the law and proficiency in critical and creative thinking was hands down proficient.
I wanted to make sure that my Attorney Isioma Ebiringah(Izzy), Ashleigh, Nicole, Kelly, and the entire Legal Team know how thankful I am for giving me another chance. Someone else may have had me throw the towel in and wait for the outcome. I would highly recommend this Law Firm.
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18 Jan, 2025 by David saylo
15 Jan, 2025 by Jason friedlander
I've referred a number or friends to John Kay over the years. He is professional, attentive to his clients and most importantly, knowledgeable and caring. I will continue to refer to him for years to come!!!
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13 Jan, 2025 by Izabela roman
I am posting this on behalf of my sister, Krystyna.
I had the privilege of working with Mr. Brian Hurst and his partner, Ms. Olga Allen, for the past eight years. I hired them to handle a very contentious divorce, and it was the best decision I ever made. After experiencing frustration with two ineffective and non-transparent lawyers, working with Olga and Brian restored my faith that lawyers can be trusted, compassionate, and genuinely committed to their clients' best interests rather than financial gain.
Ms. Allen carefully prepared the documents for our numerous court appearances, while Mr. Hurst presented and litigated the case. Their work was exemplary—organized, thorough, and meticulously detailed. Mr. Hurst's presentations to the judges (even through several changes) were clear, data-driven, convincing, eloquent, and highly effective.
When the first court decision was appealed by the opposing side, Mr. Hurst and Ms. Allen once again collected relevant facts, prepared detailed written presentations, and engaged in skillful court negotiations, resulting in a favorable judgment from the Appeal Court. Their proficiency in multiple languages was an additional benefit, as it helped me overcome my limitations in spoken English, especially during stressful court questioning.
I highly recommend Mr. Hurst and Ms. Allen to anyone, particularly those who feel their case is hopeless or that lawyers are taking advantage of them. You will be pleasantly surprised by their dedication and effectiveness.
At the end of this painful divorce process, I feel that Olga and Brian are not just my saviors but also dear friends.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Jane doe
Quite possibly the most frustrating experience with a recruiter I've ever had. Doesn't respond to messages, even though I replied to the questions within 30 minutes. Asked for time to meet and discuss a job, I agreed, then that time came and went with no call. I have no idea why I gave it another shot after that, but I did. I offered several times I was available over several days. We agreed to a day and time, then a day later I get a message claiming they double booked the time. Wait, what? I would strongly caution if you're trying to do business with this company. The recruiter is the first point of contact and first impressions are absolutely everything. What if I were the one carrying on that way? They'd send me a rejection letter!
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27 Oct, 2023 by Khaja mohiuddin
20 Apr, 2023 by Krystal hughes
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
Read more
22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
Read more
22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
Read more
22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
18 Nov, 2024 by Amin ali
26 Jul, 2024 by Louis prima
If you're looking for great quality customer service and great response for your property tax appeals this is the place for you
David Appel
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22 Mar, 2023 by Kirsten rauffer
24 Oct, 2024 by Darius taylor
02 Sep, 2024 by Jackie
It's a scam,DEI needs To be terminated I needed asst with my 87yr Mother but was not successful 2sibs end up putting mother in a nursing home with out my knowledge then she DIED 2sibs where very happy she DIED they killed my Mother on june 26,2024.i love you
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24 Jul, 2024 by Isaiah a
Amazing people I’ve been with them for many years recommend 10/10
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Discover the ideal lawyer
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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.
