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09 Jul, 2016 by Mike
Our case was pretty run of the mill, but Tim took the time to explain every detail so we understood what to expect. The entire process went flawlessly. Tim is the consummate professional. I highly recommend his services.
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02 Apr, 2016 by Robert
a few years ago we filed bankruptcy and we lost our home to foreclosure. was it our fault, health issues, societies greed in general ? I really don't know, but what I do know is, I'm very glad we hired Tim. that was a stressful time and it went on for almost two years. he never judged us and when we needed him, he was there, available to us personally and he relieved that stress. I'm honestly glad Tim was in our corner. thanks Tim!
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31 Mar, 2016 by Justin
Tim helped out and answered questions every step of the way. He went way above and beyond to make the bankruptcy smooth as it can be! I have recommended him to several people in the last month.
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30 Jul, 2019 by Anonymous
Justin was wonderful to work with from the initial consultation through the end of our child custody battle. Not only was Justin incredibly easy to work with, he was always genuine and hard working throughout our case. My husband and I had a very complex child custody case, and Justin was able to work through all the layers and issues while getting us the best case scenario when it came to court time. He will always lead the conversation with honesty and his experience of the law while giving you all the options and how to approach the issues at hand. I couldn't recommend someone more than him, and I hope if you ever find yourself in a difficult family law situation, he is one of the first calls you make.
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06 Jun, 2018 by James
Mr. Jaeger helped me navigate through a very difficult time in my life. He provided outstanding legal counsel and understood where what my goals were. He was patient and thorough and made sure I understood all my options while steering me to the best legal options. He also listened to me and helped me reach objectives that were important to me. I would not hesitate to hire him again because I know from very personal experience that he values his clients and seeks the best for them in every area. You will not be disappointed in working with him.
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28 Dec, 2017 by Nikki
I can't say enough to express how amazing Justin is. 5 stars doesn't even come close to what I think he deserves. I have been involved in an extremely hostile custody situation for a year and half. My ex has turned everything he possibly could in to an all out assault against me, my family, my friends and my other children to the detriment of our child. Justin has been compassionate, kind, hard working and extremely knowledgeable in every aspect of my extremely difficult case. He is fair, honest and treats all parties involved with decency and respect. Justin has and continues to go above and beyond every expectation I ever have. He listens to me and works hard to ensure the best possible outcome for my child. Justin took the time to really get to know me, the situation and every aspect of the case front to back. His approach to handling these cases is what all other attorneys should strive to accomplish. I am so very thankful to Justin and the rest of the staff (they all are fantastic!) for all they have done and continue to do for my family. All you'll need is a few minutes of an initial consultation with him to see just how much better he is than any other attorney out there. Thank you Justin. You've been a life saver...literally and figuratively!
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30 Jun, 2008 by Anonymous
The matter whent into court ordered Mediation. We set a goal when we went in and we left with that goal in hand. John was completely up to speed on all aspects of a complicated case. Excellent speaking and negotiation skills. Excellent litagator.
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26 Jun, 2008 by Anonymous
John acted as a chief litigator for me in the federal courts of Louisiana. He was very effective. He was well prepared. He gave me sound advice. He was easy to work with and a man of good will.
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28 Jan, 2015 by Roger
It's been awhile since I used his service, but I am very pleased with the results. It's difficult to explain, but for the short story, my identity was "stolen" by a debt collector by adding my name name as an "alias". This was all done without my knowledge. You see, I was in the middle of getting my house refinanced through the Home Affordability Act. I was going through a very rough time time due to disability and the mortgage company was on the side pushing for Fore Closure. As a result I was keeping very close tabs of my credit history making sure I was aware of everything possible. During this time I had received notification of some negative information on my credit report. Knowing I have been working very hard to get back on my feet I was sure all of my payments were on time, etc. so I got concerned about maybe some foreclosure event taking place. I went to Adams County web site and checked public records on myself just to see what was or wasn't in there. I was shocked what I found next. There was a judgement listed under my name, and my name was listed as an alias. Went down to Adams County to find out what the heck was going on only to be detained (without choice) because there was an arrest warrant and my name was listed as an alias. After embarrassing the deputies when the ran my fingerprints through CBI, I was released and given copies of the case for which this all happened. After careful review I found a sleazy debt collected had basically convinced himself and then Adams County Court that my name should be added as an alias to a debt collection. Well I was upset to say the least. After trying to address this on my own first it was apparent that I needed help. I had contacted Marks office and explained my situation. Mark was very generous in coming to my home and listening to my situation.
Mark attempted to resolve issue out of court first, however as one might expect we ended up in filing for action. Once that was done, things were very different. Mark was able to keep me calm while handling the case. I'm not real easy to deal with when I'm upset, my emotion gets in the way of clear thinking. Mark was able to navigate through the process to a clear resolution. Mark was very gracious in understanding my financial situation and worked out a payment plan so I could rest at night knowing I'm being taken care and I'm not going to go bankrupt. My good name has been restored, and judgement removed! No one should have to go through this, but I'm glad Mark was around to help.
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14 Mar, 2014 by Guillermo ortiz
Mark is very passionate about helping people. I really appreciated his insightfulness and patients in the time he spent going over my situation. He was very honest and clearly cared about my best interests I felt confident with the guidance he provided me!
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18 Sep, 2024 by Pablo edyn ramos torres
Thank you for everything 🙏
The team is amazing and will definitely take care of you the right way and help you all the way until the end. I cannot express how grateful 🥹 am for the hard work and the dedication I was shown. Thank you for everything 💯🙏
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07 Sep, 2024 by Erik miller
Jesse was exactly what I needed at a time of desperation!
Extremely professional, helpful and personable.
He went above and beyond for me and was the definition of responsive.
Even three years in he would respond almost immediately and cater to whatever inquiry or request I made of him, within reason of course.
I feel like I should have and would have paid much more for his guidance through this entire process!
Could not recommend him more to anyone going through it and needing some comfortable, dependable, consistent support and guidance!
Look no further if you need help!
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23 Aug, 2024 by Katie knowlton
Filing bankruptcy was a very difficult decision for me. There is a lot of shame and embarrassment associated with it. But, at the time, it was all I could do. Honestly, I didn’t speak with many different attorneys before I made a decision. But as soon as I met Jesse in person, I knew I was in good hands. He made me feel at ease, helped me disassociate from the thoughts that this would haunt me forever because there are more people than you think that file bankruptcy and move on from it for the better. He assured me that he would help me get through it and he did! Jesse made the process very simple. Over the years that he over saw my case, he was available to me simply by sending an email or giving him a call. I would absolutely recommend him to anyone who finds themselves in a tight spot or questions about bankruptcy 💯. I’m finally through it and you can be too!
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07 Sep, 2010 by Jeff
He did an excellent job explaining our options and helping us through a very hard time!
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09 Sep, 2014 by Anonymous
ms. shimel did a fantastic job in our banking/real estate transaction. She reviewed documents thoroughly, warned us of any possible issues, and was well prepared and efficient at every interaction. we could not be happier!
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11 Feb, 2011 by David
Mr foster is really great to work with and is pleasant yet forthright. In my dealings with him he has been very respectful and at the same time commands respect. He is also very organized and that's also very important to me. As a side note, I get the feeling his staff really likes him too.
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09 Apr, 2012 by Greg
Krea gave us great legal advice. She took the time to discuss the complexities of our situation and explained how to best proceed. Actions speak louder than words. Krea put our needs before his own. Thank you Krea for helping us.
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16 Jul, 2011 by Jon & brenda
When we met Tim in 2006 we were really in a bind. We had a mountain of debt, our house was in foreclosure, we were facing wage garnishment, and we were dealing with the possibility of being sued. To say the least, we were desperate and hopeless. After our first consultation with Tim we started to see light at the end of the tunnel, and for the first time, believed it was not a train. To start with, Tim became a shield between us and the creditors that were constantly calling. I cannot even begin to tell you what a relief that was!
Tim not only handled our bankruptcy with professionalism and intelligence, but also with class and grace. He is very knowledgeable regarding bankruptcy laws and litigation. He did not treat us as deadbeats, in fact, he made us feel like we were not bad people. He helped us understand sometimes good people go through difficult financial times and need to just start over. He did that for us.
Now, five years later, we are on the verge of buying a house, we have had no trouble getting decent cars, and we are completely back on our feet. Thank you Tim for not only what you did for us, but also how your handled our case with kindness and understanding!
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20 Jul, 2016 by Kacey
Avi was recommended to me by a friend and yes she was right: he cares about your case; he takes personal interest in your case and goes above and beyond to make sure you get a positive result. I had both an immigration case as well as a divorce and I hired him for both.
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06 Feb, 2025 by Debbie abdella
Becky Clark was recently my lawyer during a very trying time and helped me navigate in a timely, efficient, and with the best possible outcome I was hoping for. Her compassion and empathy for my situation allowed me to feel comfortable and confident each step was being treated with the highest level of integrity and the grit needed to finalize my parenting plan. I highly recommend her and know you will be in good hands!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie davis
I have never been more impressed by a lawyer. Travis is friendly and beyond knowledgeable. He was so helpful and straight-forward. His best interest is definitely his clients. I couldnt ask for a better experience.
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16 Oct, 2024 by Gianna robles
Very friendly and knowledgeable. I am very thankful for the help Travis gave me today. I would love to be represented by them.
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13 Feb, 2017 by John cimino
Illene is a very hardworking, bright, honest and reliable lawyer.
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20 Dec, 2024 by Rebekah blas
Mike was beyond amazing to work with. He is an incredible attorney and we got a favorable outcome on my case. From our first phone call he listened to me and was very sympathetic for my situation. I had spoke with several lawyers prior and they were not as kind or compassionate as he is.
This was my first time needing a lawyer. Mike helped make the entire process smooth and not intimidating. He is very good at his job and does it with ease. He is also very reasonably priced.
I fully recommend Mike if you are in need of an attorney. I hope to not need a criminal defense attorney in the future but if I do, Mike will be the one I call and who I refer people to.
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16 Dec, 2024 by Micah w
Mike helped me a lot settle 3 cases with no jail time! He worked with me and was really on top of getting my cases solved. Thank you again Mike for all your help.
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13 Dec, 2024 by Kristen payne
David & Hayden were phenomenal in their handling of my 16 year old son’s traffic case. If you need representation for anything traffic related, this is the place. Thank you!
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07 Feb, 2024 by Gary carlton
26 Nov, 2023 by Andrea ruby
03 Aug, 2023 by Shawna jackson
Mr. Swift was a great help to answer my questions for my situation.
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09 Aug, 2017 by Alyssa
George and his stuff made everything easy. My case was kind of complicated, I had another attorney look at it and he refused to take it. George was on top of things at all times. I hope I will not need his services in the future, but will refer people if someone does need it.
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14 Dec, 2015 by Pat
Like many, I found the thought of going through bankruptcy unsettling. George and his staff definitely helped ease my nerves. They are responsive and diligent. Can't ask for better.
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25 Jul, 2015 by Heidi
George and firm were amazing from the very beginning. Did not make me feel low for filing bankruptcy, just explained and helped with every aspect. I live in the mountains and it was way worth going to Denver/Aurora border to meet with them. Whenever I e-mailed them they responded that day no longer than a couple of hours at most. Highly recommend this firm.
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12 Jan, 2025 by Don laconte
Mr Martinez and the firm has found justice when I had to reach outJacob will always give his best 10 yrs I m thankful God bless My Friend 🙏
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11 Dec, 2024 by Van romero
Understanding and willingness to go above and beyond. Highly recommend.
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07 Aug, 2024 by Keith moody
13 Jul, 2011 by Anonymous
Mr. Yablon literally came to my rescue. I saw his advertisement on Haystack (channel4) and he seemed to understand my situation. He had the highest regard and resepect to my urgent personal and business debts.
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09 Mar, 2011 by Lori
Mr. Yablon helped me navigate the complex decision to file for bankruptcy. I felt quite comfortable in talking to him regarding personal matters. Thomas was very helpful with some unexpected circumstances. My questions were answered promptly and in words that I could understand. The legal terms were explained with patience. If you are considering bankruptcy or have questions about what your options are, I highly recommend Mr, Yablon.
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07 Mar, 2011 by Kelli
Ben and his partner Thomas are very nice guys. Helped us through or difficult situation with very little confusion. Very knowledgable, non-judgemental. Overall a good experience.
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09 Jan, 2019 by Anonymous
If you want an attorney with expertise from years of experience who is also personable and caring, look no further than Allen R. Schwartz! I was a recipient of fraud and I was totally devastated. My situation was immensely complicated and challenging and I don't know what I've done without Allen's encouragement and positivity. He made no promises and yet through it all encouraged me to keep my chin up and live life. The final outcome was better than I'd imagined. Thank you so much, Allen!
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29 Dec, 2017 by Yana
Mr. Schwartz represented me in Bankruptcy, Chapter 7 case. He was very thorough and prompt, very knowledgeable and helpful throughout the whole process of my case. His team of paralegal assistance is excellent as well. I highly recommend Mr. Schwartz to anyone who needs to file bankruptcy.
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24 Jul, 2013 by Daniel
I worked with Allen on a limited bases. He was informative and helpful through the whole process.
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26 Jan, 2025 by Malana cordova
A few years ago my husband used Clawson&Clawson when a guy ran a red light and t-boned him. We were very happy with the outcome. Fast forward to last October when I got rear-ended. We reached out to Michael again. I really appreciate how thorough they were with both cases. And once again, we are very happy with the outcome. If you are ever injured and need a very reputable attorney I recommend Clawson & Clawson. They will take care of you and get you the most possible for your injuries.
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24 Jan, 2025 by Pete aragon
Clawson & Clawson is a down to earth law firm, which I greatly appreciate. Their staff are very patient, thoughtful and helped guide me through my legal situation. They are the best law firm I have dealt with by far, since I have been involved in many other auto accidents in the past. Brenda and Wendy are great, they really care!
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16 Nov, 2024 by Lacey mclaughlin
Wonderful firm. Mike, Matt, and their staff are exceptionally patient and communicative. For such an unwanted and unexpected event in my life, they made the legal side a breeze. Thanks everyone!
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09 Dec, 2024 by B m
My experience with this law firm has been great. The staff and Matt made it easy to get through this unfortunate event that happens in life to many of us. They communication we had was on point never delayed regarding were the case was at. Very pleased with the outcome thanks to this law firm.
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27 Nov, 2024 by Rick torrez
10 Oct, 2024 by Namoos haider
I cannot express enough gratitude for the incredible support I received from Erika and their entire team during an extremely stressful time following a bad car accident. From the very beginning, they were by my side, guiding me through every step of the legal process with patience and compassion. It wasn’t just about legal advice – they genuinely cared about my well-being and provided constant reassurance during a time when I needed it the most.
Erika was not only professional and knowledgeable, but also kind, understanding, and incredibly dedicated to my case. The bond we created felt personal, and I knew I could rely on them no matter what came up. They fought hard for me, and I always felt they had my best interests at heart.
Their entire team was absolutely amazing – responsive, empathetic, and supportive throughout the entire process. I am so, so grateful for their hard work and dedication. If you are ever in need of a lawyer who truly cares, I highly recommend Erika and their team.
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25 Sep, 2024 by John k
I had a client that refused to pay for services rendered. I retained services from Allen Vellone Wolf Helfrich and worked largely with Vandana Koelsch. I was from out of state so I depended on her for the heavy lifting. At the end of the day, it was a successful outcome and appreciate their professionalism.
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27 Aug, 2024 by James campbell, jr
My experience with Allen Vellone Wolf Helfrich & Factor has been beyond great. They dug into the issues of my case and discovered things in my favor that go far beyond what other defendants in the same case appear to have missed or not seriously considered. My opinions of Jim Helfrich and Kate Sender go beyond my ability to express. The best I can say is that I trust them to do their absolute best, which I believe they have done. No bullshit.
They haven’t always told me what I want to hear, but they have always considered my opinion and that has been reflected in the things they have produced on my behalf. My case is not over, but they believe in me and have taken my side with the best they have to offer. Their rates are fair, and I have never had the feeling they were fabricating hours as so many law firms do, especially the law firm that is attacking me. I suspect I will have more to add to this review in the future.
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26 Mar, 2024 by Ande b. sejna
Shady business. Deletes & hides negative reviews of their deceptive lawyers.
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26 Dec, 2024 by Krizzy a
Jarrett is an exceptional attorney who fought for me with unparalleled dedication, expertise, and compassion.
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22 Dec, 2024 by Prophet zarquon
Friendly, frank, no nonsense
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19 Jul, 2024 by Fantastic movers
We recently moved Jarret and his bill is yet to be paid. If your looking for a lawyer don't look here. We reimbursed him 22.50 for a 4-6 dollar planter. He owes us over a thousand dollars and we may have to take him to small claims court. I can't say he's a bad lawyer because I'm not sure but if you are serviced and your only gripe is a 6 dollar planter that we told you we felt uncomfortable moving was broke. Then you found a way to not pay while it looks like you did. Jarret Benson has no morals. Find a lawyer who will have a ethical code.
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08 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
I hired Harry for my Chapter 7 bankruptcy and believe he did an excellent job. He was quick to respond to my e-mails requesting updates and next steps through the process and flexible with getting me in quickly, even in staying late or coming in early and on a Saturday to accommodate my work schedule. I believe his fee is reasonable and like that he charges a flat fee rather than a retainer and then "we'll see where we go from there." He was there with and for me when I had to meet the trustee in court and really once I gathered all my paperwork and information for him together, it was a breeze and he handled the rest. I would and have recommended him to friends and family.
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22 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
He's always had my back, I'd trust him with my life and have recommended him to my friends and family.
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13 Feb, 2023 by Ryan james
Rafael made it a quick point to call me when I had concerns about our 1099s and a few of our vendors. I really appreciated the calls to get our resolution with out all the back and forth. Thanks Rafael!
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14 Jun, 2022 by Roy mcfarland
Amazing service. Highly recommended! Peter is incredibly knowledgeable and compassionate. Helped with all our legal and tax questions! Thanks!!!
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12 Oct, 2020 by Dean dubach
We've been using LongLG for years. Very knowledgeable and professional. Their staff goes the extra mile for their clients and of course I highly recommend them.
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29 Aug, 2009 by Jody
He was very good about our case. He won without a problem. When we were in court with him we were at ease and very comfortable. He has a very good assistant, and they both work together to take the time, and care about their clients.
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18 Apr, 2011 by Dan
Mr. Hoeflinger took his time to understand my specific needs and long term goals before establishing a game plan for me and my business. He worked with me for 6 months helping me to close my business while managing both my assets and finances. In the end, I was able to dissolve my corporation, protect myself in bankruptcy, and save almost everything I owned.
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04 Dec, 2012 by Kathy
We were referred to Marty by our CPA. It was a horribly stressful time in our life with 2 children under the age of 3, a relatively new home, and the economy crashing around us. Marty was wonderful! I really appreciated how ethical he was, including having us do the right (not the easy) thing, by vacating our home in a timely manner and making sure that our creditors were taken care of to the best of our ability. Bankruptcy was not what we wanted but Marty made it so that we felt that we did the best we could under the circumstances.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Melissa shrader
We got a consultation was presented very quickly, percice and knowledgeably. Incredibly kind and direct. Highly recommend.
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13 Mar, 2024 by William silver
Highly recommend
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04 Jan, 2024 by Novus glass
I have used Jon Mark for some of my business transactions. I would highly recommend their firm.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Up2itnow bill wilson
I recently had the pleasure of working with Michael Juba on a landlord-tenant issue, and I am thoroughly impressed with his expertise and professionalism. Michael expertly navigated interactions with opposing counsel, skillfully reading the nuances of their approach and firmly refusing to take the bait. His strategic and composed handling of the situation led to a complete resolution, and I am 100% satisfied with the outcome. Michael’s dedication and adeptness make him an outstanding real estate attorney. I highly recommend his services to anyone in need of legal assistance in this field!
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14 Sep, 2024 by Shirley paulson
We selected Michael Juba from among other lawyers because on our first phone call, he listened thoughtfully and carefully to our situation and concerns. His response was extremely kind and patient—exactly what we needed in our distress. From that first contact all the way to the end of the trial, he gave us confidence that he knew what he was doing, and he patiently taught us what we needed to know every step of the way.
As we came to know him—and later, his partner Daniel McGarvey—we found both to be compassionate, patient, hard-working, thorough, wise, and very smart. As our case unfolded, and it became evident that we were confronted with a cruel, incompetent, and stubborn prosecutor, Mr. Juba and Mr. McGarvey doubled down and took every step possible to bring the case to a close before ending up in a trial.
During the trial, we learned the extent to which Mr. Juba and Mr. McGarvey had prepared the case. They studied every angle, obtained every possible form of evidence, brought important legal precedence to the judge, and shaped their arguments clearly and professionally.
We kept reminding each other how grateful we were that we had the best lawyers possible. The year-long preparation and trial was a painful experience, but Mr. Juba and Mr. McGarvey were constantly comforting us as well as preparing for their arguments. We won the case decisively, and we hope no other family will have to endure what we faced, but if they do, we know that Mr. Juba and Mr. McGarvey will offer comfort, wisdom, and the highest legal skill.
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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:
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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.
