Lawyers map
>66
experienced lawyers
Filter by
5.0
20 Reviews
13 Mar, 2024 by Joe
My experience with Florida Bankruptcy Advisors was great. Chris and Brooke are an attention to detail duo and make the entire Bankruptcy process extremely easy. I contacted them on Thanksgiving weekend of 2023, and both responded to my call. The outcome of my case was in my favor as well. Thank you Chris and Brooke.
Read more
09 Aug, 2023 by David
The team at Florida Bankruptcy Advisors is professional and extremely proficient. They also have a fair price and care about their customers. They are a diamond in the rough and I highly recommend their services.
Read more
05 Jun, 2023 by Pete n.
I consulted with attorney Panagakos and he helped me tremendously. He patiently listened to my situation and he asked pertinent questions to get to the bottom line. He has a very logical approach in defining the problem and in finding different solutions. He helped me find the best course of action for my situation and I really appreciate that. I will be recommending his services to others.
Read more
14 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
He handled my bankruptcy and was the only one who talked to me on the phone and answered my questions when we met so I knew what to expect. It turned out great
Read more
29 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
I HIGHLY recommend Attorney Nielson without reservation. Most importantly he's incredibly knowledgable and extremely competent. But he's also very responsive, professional and approachable. Because of him, I was able to navigate a confusing and intimidating legal process comfortably and competently.
Read more
06 Nov, 2013 by Robert
I found Attorney Nielson (Dave) during an online search as we were needing an attorney to represent my wife and I in our first home purchase. Dave drafted the purchase and sales, performed the closing and performed the title search for our recent home purchase.
As a first time home buyer, I was not completely aware of all the legal characteristics of buying a home. Dave is clearly an expert of real estate law. He provided above and beyond service throughout the entire closing process. Dave educated me on the process and helped me understand the legal elements of buying a home. He was patient and always quick to respond to my questions. He was willing to correspond via email, something that was very helpful for me as I am deaf. Our recent home purchase was quite complex as the seller was a trust. There were multiple trustees, which made the transaction more complex. Dave was able to work through the complexities very effectively, which made life easier for my wife and I through the closing process.
I highly recommend Attorney Nielson for anyone who needs a reliable real estate attorney.
Read more
5.0
7 Reviews
09 Mar, 2024 by Susan
Michael Johnson is the best
Patience and gracious
Knowledgeable and thoughtful
I was blessed to find him
Susan Flaherty
Read more
17 Sep, 2021 by Abdul
I talked to Mike twice. Both times my situation was not urgent and he still help me sort it out.
As of now he is not my counsel I highly recommend him for what he did for me in terms of giving me guideline to follow.Instead of rushing to get business very professional
You will benefit from him for sure
Read more
07 Oct, 2017 by Brad
I hired Mike because I needed to save my home after a loss of income. He was very professional. Always on time. And best of all I am still in my home of 17 years. I highly recommend Mike.
Read more
02 Sep, 2014 by Tatiana hernandez
I went to the office of Orfelia, looking for some advise, in return she took my case right in, and help me right away. i would definitely recommend her service to anyone who's facing debts and wants to file bankruptcy.
Read more
28 Oct, 2013 by Olga
Orfelia Mayor is that rare combination of integrity and compassion in an attorney. I think she does as much counseling as she gives legal advice. I turned to her during a very difficult time in my life. I could never have imagined that I would ever have to file for bankruptcy. She listened to all of my concerns and fears and put me at ease during our consultations. She is very knowledgable and extremely professional. Her staff is wonderful and you are made to feel that you are part of a family instead of just another case number. I am very grateful to all of them for the way I was treated and the outcome of my case. I highly recommend them to anyone.
Read more
26 Mar, 2013 by Magaly
Bankruptcy was a lsat option for me (although now I don't know why it was a "last option") It should have been the first instead of spending all my retirement money. I saw Ms. Mayors reviews on another website and went for the free consultation. What a relief! She explained everything to me with a lot of patience and listened to what I was worried about. Everything went exactly as she said it would and I am not worry free, debt free and already have credit cards again. I got rid of about $50,000 in debt for a SMALL fraction of that amount, THANK YOU!
Read more
18 Sep, 2015 by Chris
Julie was very thorough and helped every step of the way. She is very detail oriented and did not miss a step. We spoke to a few attorneys before choosing Ms. Hough and found her to be the most capable to handle our situation.
Read more
13 Aug, 2011 by Deborah
Julie did an excellent job with my case! She explained everything thoroughly and answered all of my questions. She knows the law and how to use it to her client's advantage. Julie did a great job fighting for me. I walked away in much better financial shape than i ever imagined possible!Â
Read more
09 Aug, 2011 by Joanne
Julie was a wonderful attoreny/representative for me. By the time we completed what I retained her for I felt like she was more than just an attorney, but someone who really cared about my situation. I would highly recommend her services to anyone!
Read more
10 Dec, 2014 by Christian
Chris is an extremely knowledgeable attorney that strives to help all of his clients achieve the best results. I have worked with him for many years and he is always informed about the latest developments in consumer law to help individuals fight greedy corporations. He is honest and fair. I highly recommend him.
Read more
02 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
If you are in need of an attorney, consider the McCue Law Firm. You will get a highly educated, experienced husband wife team and a super staff behind them. I cannot tell you how dismayed we were with the other attorneys we interviewed, but once I sat down and spoke to Lisa McCue, she explained everything, told us the procedure, and pretty much assured us everything would be just fine. Their staff answered all questions immediately and everything just went off perfectly. THANK YOU GUYS!
Read more
01 Jun, 2012 by Kimberly
I knew from my consultation with Lisa McCue that my worries would soon be over. I had a consultation with another attorney who told me that I could only qualify for a Chapter 13 (and he didn't even look at any of my paperwork) and that I should try negotiating with my creditors. That didn't work out so well. I decided to see another attorney and found the McCue Law Firm. I was there for about an hour and did not feel rushed or felt like I was asking too many questions. I felt relieved when I left and I hadn't even started the paperwork yet.
I had many questions during the process of collecting all of the documentation needed for my case. I had so many questions and Carol, the paralegal working on my case, was so very helpful. She returned my phone calls, sometimes as late as 6PM and always made me feel reassured and was always professional. She answered every email I sent and addressed all of my concerns. She is truly an asset to the firm. Sonya was also very friendly whenever I called their office.
On the day of my hearing, Mr. McCue was prompt and we went over one or two things before heading in for my hearing. I was very nervous but he was also very reassuring and again, professional, not to mention personable and easy to talk and relate to.
Making the decision to file bankruptcy was a difficult one but this team is outstanding. I felt ashamed and embarrassed but the McCue's told me all of the reasons that I should not be and they were right. I am more than pleased with the quality of representation I received. Aside from that, it is my impression that this law office is not out to nickel and dime its clients, rather, they practice this type of law to help those of us in need and do a fantastic job. I am thankful that now I can move on with my life and financially get back on my feet.
Read more
23 Sep, 2020 by Marco
After few months working with Kim, she showed her experience and with her guidance our case was handled very well. Her professionalism and dedication were key for the great success. Thanks Kim I will recommend your services for sure.
Read more
14 Apr, 2020 by Ronald
Kim handled my Bankruptcy during dome very stressful times. It was easy and very straight forward.
Read more
14 Apr, 2020 by Christina
Kim was recommended to me by a family member and I have nothing but great things to say about her! She is very knowledgeable in her line of work, makes all of the necessary recommendations for your case and explains everything in detail, step by step. We knew exactly what to expect during the entire bankruptcy process. She is very well organized and efficient. Anytime I had a question, she will available by phone or email and responded right away. Thank you Kim, for making this very difficult time, a painless one. I will highly recommend Kim to all of my friends and family.
Read more
18 May, 2015 by Denise
David,
Excellent attorney, he knows the law and he looks out for his clients. I had a very long challenging bankruptcy, but he and his professional staff hung in there and fought for us. He is very methodical, knows the law, and was punctual at all the hearings. I recommend him to everyone as Florida's top Bankruptcy lawyers. Thank you David for giving us a fresh start!!!
Read more
23 Apr, 2013 by David
Attentive, amicable, knowledgeable and patient. Makes what and why of the process understandable. My entire experience was painless.
Read more
19 Nov, 2013 by Steve
Paul and James represented and defended me last year against a frivolous lawsuit that was settled without going to trial. Both were professional, concise, sympathetic, courteous, and I would wholeheartedly recommend them.
Read more
26 Mar, 2015 by Dee his
I hired david to handle by bankruptcy back in 2004. He left no stone unturned. I was a nervous wreck and he guided me through each step. Within 10 years I recommended him to 3 people who were completely satisfied with his work.
Read more
21 Aug, 2014 by Anonymous
Efrain did a bankruptcy for me a while back. He did a great job and has integrity. Pricing was fair.
Endorsed!
- Eddie
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Robert
While I didn't hire Jonathan, he has a deep understanding of bankruptcy law that provides clear and practical advice. He is patient at answering questions and helpful in understanding the options without any pressure. His professionalism and expertise are evident, and I would not hesitate to recommend him to others seeking guidance on bankruptcy issues.
Read more
24 Aug, 2024 by Ailyn l
The were very efficient with the whole process and results in both cases came sooner than expected.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Pedro robles
This law firm is very professional and attentive to our questions. Thank you and your staff.
Read more
03 Jul, 2024 by Julissa morales
The best lawyer.
Read more
22 Aug, 2024 by Rolando suarez
Dr DMS and her staff were absolutely professional during the long process that I had to take to court..All the steps in the process were detailed explained and discussed with me. Dr DMS set the goals from the beginning and always worked hard to get there. In my case all the goals were achieved and the whole process was very satisfactory. I after years of being in a family court hardly recommend her services....thanks Dr Diksha
Read more
16 Aug, 2024 by Yolanda gonzalez-claro
Diksha and her team were an intricate part in bringing our family together. We are so grateful and thankful for all the hard work, dedication, and integrity we experienced from everyone at her firm! "All things come together for good..." and we are thrilled to have her on our family team!
Read more
07 Jun, 2024 by Jorge barreto
This was my first time using A criminal attorney, but I found a friend that just happens to be an attorney... Josh is.
Always available to you 24/7 great guy. Puts himself in your shoes always... I recommend him to everybody. Has empathy for your situation. I guarantee
Read more
12 Aug, 2024 by Mike jackson
Great experience from start to finish! Performed above and beyond my expectations. I found Dave off the internet, but he treated me as if we had known each other for years. Highly recommended! 5***** all the way!
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Josh l. leal
Over and over, Mr. Simmons keeps winning all my motions. He’s a force to be reckoned with. Truly a humble guy, but he’s as fearless as any. I cannot recommend anyone as much as I do Mr. Simmons. He’s truly my piece of mind.
Read more
05 Jul, 2024 by April bovard
Words can’t even express how happy and blessed we are that we found Dave Simmons! From the get go he was very communicative and answered any questions I had no matter how little they were, and he always got back with me very quickly. We couldn’t have asked for a better outcome in our case. My husband was able to come home and meet our sweet 4 day old. Beyond blessed to have found him!
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Anthony rodriguez
Amazing team and work so hard to make sure sure justice is served. Adam and Deedee are so helpful and supportive. I thank them for everything.
Read more
25 Jul, 2024 by Tiffany springer
DeeDee Scheller was AMAZING! She was always there for me for both the criminal and civil suite. I was a complete mess there were so many times I never thought I would make it through this. She was always encouraging and even allowed me to have her cell number to call when I needed. She went above and beyond to make me feel like I was prepared for everything and was extremely compassionate. I’m so grateful I had her as an advocate as well as the whole team of lawyers, paralegals and secretaries.
Read more
12 Apr, 2024 by T k
Great attorney it's all a waiting process I have alot of patience
Read more
5.0
23 Reviews
4.8
757 Reviews
10 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
The team at Van Horn LG was super efficient with my personal bankruptcy case filing and handling the case all the way to discharge and closing. They communicate and follow up on time answering all your questions and make you feel really safe and calm in otherwise stressful process of filing for bankruptcy. Thank you and highly recommend to any potential client!
Read more
22 Sep, 2024 by Yinet montesino
In general, a great experience. Very responsive at the beginning of the process. I'm giving it a 4 star because after the 341 meeting... I have emailed them 3 times on a matter. It's been over 3 weeks and haven't heard from them except for payment reminders.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Mark wolf
From the first call and conversation with the lawyer to when they assigned the best Para Legal ever Edna Arroyo Martinez I was respected and professionally worked with and was relieved to see how Edna made me feel comfortable. She advised me very clearly and work so quickly sometimes even late into the night due to the need file quickly. Even after filing she has kept me updated throughout the filing. Great firm with professional experience like Edna. Thank you
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Ba ku
Personally I had bad experience with this firm , initially I contacted the is firm because we need to resolve an issue with something we purchased and we got scammed for more than 5k with a company in Miami , this firm ask for every detail in this case and they took it but after 3 months I was trying to contact them and the person in charge of my case was no longer available and they didn’t tell us anything like an update or anything so I had to call Them and also write many messages via Instagram and after 3 weeks they finally responded just saying that they not gonna take my case without mentioning anything
Terrible customer service and I believe the lawyers or attorneys working there are really amateur and with zero professionalism
Read more
29 Sep, 2024 by Jhennifer rossatto
Hey, I want to thank the team for their exceptional help in resolving an issue with my credit report. I was distressed when I discovered incorrect information on my report, but the team handled everything with professionalism. I’m relieved to see the issue with Equifax is finally resolved. I truly appreciate their expertise and support. Now I’m waiting for the Experian settlement agreement.
Highly recommend their services!:)
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Russell jambro
Stephan Dobrinsky is exceptional—his dedication, expertise, and compassion turned my case around when others failed. From his relentless advocacy to clear, reassuring communication, he’s the attorney you want on your side. Trust Stephan with your future; he’s truly outstanding.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by David hohimer jr
I was unfortunately involved in a serious auto accident that involved a county school bus that hit me after running a stop sign, my car was totaled and I was injured and required surgery and was out of work for about 9 weeks. I was referred to Blake Dolman for legal advice and representation. The county's initial offer for compensation was ridiculous. Blake and his team worked very hard for months to make sure that I got the amount that I was entitled to after this terrible accident, they involved me at every step and did not allow the county to minimized the damage caused to me, my life and my job. I can very strongly recommend Blake Dolman to get the job done and make sure you feel heard and cared for and he will get you the compensation you deserve for your injuries, your time and your trauma after an accident.
Read more
11 Oct, 2024 by Ven smith
Very responsive and Knowledgeable staff. They accompany you from the beginning to the end of the process with periodic update on your case. My wife and I were very fortunate to be represented by Mr. Dolman and his team.
Read more
21 Sep, 2024 by Bruce rawdin
I cannot say enough about how incredible Blake Dolman is.
Blake cared about me and my case when other lawyers did not.
Blake persevered with Brilliant Legal tactics that I believe no other lawyer could have and accomplished for me what Blake Dolman accomplished.
Blake changed my life when I had accepted that nothing and no one could help me.
If you truly desire an Honest Ethical and Brilliant Attorney that will truly care about you as a human being, and is Brilliant in so many ways?
Blake Dolman, to me? Is on a level all his own.
Ty Blake for changing my life.
I will never forget you. 🙇♂️🙏🫶
Read more
27 Jun, 2018 by Anonymous
Todd has the experience, wisdom and guts to go up against the big boys. He is relentless and is an active litigator.
Read more
02 May, 2018 by John
I had medical and emotional issues that had been brought on by the devastating housing market collapse. Our whole world was crashing down all around us. Everywhere we turned, there was more trouble rearing its ugly head. We ended up having two homes foreclosed, medical and regular bills were piling up and my family of 4 was literally homeless! Our wonderful neighbor opened her home to us and was truly our angel in our time of tribulation. We were experiencing very serious and life changing issues which none of the things were of our own doing. Todd Lewis was referred to us by a family friend. We didn’t know what to do or whom to ask to know what to do! It was a very scary and humbling time, the darkest days I have ever experienced. But Todd was a breath of fresh air. He educated and encouraged us and helped us to remember that bad things do happen to good people. His direct approached helped us tremendously to stay focused and not dwell on the negativity of the circumstance but to look forward, take one day at a time and focus of “fixing” our situation to move forward in a positive manner.
Todd may have started out as our lawyer, but he quickly became our trusted friend!
Read more
04 May, 2017 by Cal.
I recently built a house in northern VA and I had a problem where a utility pole was in the front middle of my property that had three big utility companies wires on it (1 electric, 2 coax and 4 fiber cables). The pole was pretty much an eyesore. I tried to work with the utility companies for 2 years to get them to remove it since they didn't have an easement but that did not go anywhere until I retained Mr. Todd Lewis to represent me. Thanks to Todd, all three utility company were gone off the pole and the pole was removed. The cost to get that done was less than 15% of what I would have to pay only one company to remove it. He did all this without having to go to court. Thank you Todd.
PS. I used to think that many lawyers just want to take your money until I worked with Todd. I am a true that lawyer like Todd will get your more for your buck, Todd proved it. Also, let's face it, not everyone can be a lawyer. Not only does Todd know the case laws, he also has the negotiations and mitigation skills that was required for my complicated case.
This review does not really do Todd justice. What he did and the pressure he put on those companies was phenomenal and saved me a lot of money.
Read more
25 Jun, 2024 by Karinal123
I've just lost my business and everything else, and yesterday my car that was free and clear got taken away by the sheriff due to a writ of execution for a credit car debt. I called a lot of attorneys, and they all said pretty much that couldn't get my car back, that filing bankruptcy will not help to get it back. Most of the conversations were handle by the paralegals and very few attorneys themselves will take the time to talk to me. When I called Mr. Bigge's law firm I left a message, within an hour Mrs. Rodriguez, Bigge's partner return my call. She really listened to me, was very honest, compassionate and showed me their law firm is really there to help. She helped me and made calls in my behalf with out even knowing me, called me back several times to mantain me informed, until Mr. Bigge was able to call me. When I spoke with Mr. Bigge, because of the emergency of my case that I was trying to get my car back, he scheduled me in the morning of the next day, even though he was booked for the day. Before I went to his office he had already talked to the plaintiff councel and could get my car back. When I met with Mr. Bigge at his office, and he started asking me questions I thought everything was so chaotic in my life, but Mr. Bigge guided me in the right direction, showed me the light and made me realize my priorities. He explain that he's not in my plan until a year from now, that really showed me he's not there to get client's money, instead that he's there for the client's best interest.
Read more
23 Sep, 2021 by Raymond
Mr. Bigge Jr. is a very understanding and compassionate lawyer. My home was in foreclosure and he proceeded to do what was necessary to keep us in our home. He is always available when I needed advice. Mr. Bigge Jr. is very knowledgeable in my bankruptcy case. He always returns his phone calls and will write correspondence in a timely manner. His office staff is also extremely professional and friendly. I highly recommend Mr. Robert James Bigge Jr.
Read more
15 Aug, 2017 by Randy
Mr. Bigge Jr. was extremely professional and handled everything the way you would expect a top rated lawyer to do. He was always available when we needed advise. Mr. Bigge Jr. is very knowledgable in our bankruptcy case. He always returns his phone calls in a timely manner. His office staff is also extremely professional and friendly. We highly recommend Mr. Robert James Bigge Jr.
Read more
19 Mar, 2024 by 2003 bankruptcy client
Glenn handled my bankruptcy case. I felt that he always advised me well, walked me step-by-step through the filing process and kept me informed at all times about what needed to be done regarding my case. He was very professional, friendly and trustworthy. I was extremely happy with his work and would definitely recommend him.
Read more
02 Jan, 2024 by Michael smith
Want $500 to meet to see if they will take case
Read more
17 Jun, 2022 by Clay adams
Ed will get you what you deserve!!!
Read more
14 Dec, 2020 by Eric
Thankfully this person has been disbarred from ever practicing law.He is a criminal liar and thief. Google his name the news covered this . It took him stealing from a police officer to even get in trouble.
Read more
18 Mar, 2017 by Debra carmen
I saw George for an discrimination action. He was aggressive in litigating my case and recovered more than I expected. He was always available...very friendly...answered my questions and always showed me the appropriate level of respect for his clients.
Read more
03 Mar, 2016 by Brian
George and his staff were very pivotal in assisting me with my situation. George and his were extremely professional and attentive to my questions and concerns and always responded quickly. I would highly recommend George and his team.
Read more
26 Oct, 2023 by Thomas malmberg
The absolute worst unaccountable talk talk people who lost one million of the estate by being absolutely clueless, slow, ignorant self-satisfied little things.
An estate cannot take nearly 4 years to clear. Your relatives need a life and not this company.
Read more
14 Sep, 2022 by Ron lee
Impeccable firm.
Read more
24 Jun, 2022 by John leeheart
Been here for years now, the building and location are great!
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.
