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28 Jan, 2025 by Gohar petrosyan
Their team is professional and knowledgeable. Highly recommend!
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25 Jan, 2025 by Irina kurbanova
24 Jan, 2025 by Nargiza ibragimova
The best lawyer I ever met! Professional, skilled, intelligent and very nice!
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05 Nov, 2024 by Rumdy lazos
Since I have my accident
Brain Orlow and his team
Been helping me every step with case
They. Are concerned about client
Make sure they have good access to doctors appointments
And financial support
For me i will hire this firm again
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04 Oct, 2024 by Michael foster
They provided me with excellent service.
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04 Oct, 2024 by Gedalia schwartz
19 Apr, 2023 by John olivieri
Refuses to pay his bill after numerous attempts to collect for services rendered
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17 Apr, 2023 by Lasirton bryant
08 Apr, 2023 by Cole mckinney
13 Dec, 2024 by Alex mathew, cpa
Rachel was an absolute pleasure to work with for the closing of our home. She walked us through every step of the process and was there to answer any questions we had and get things moving when they hit snags. She made the actual closing process so smooth and easy that we were done within 30 minutes. We would highly recommend her to all of our friends and family and will certainly keep her in mind for any future legal needs!
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08 Nov, 2024 by Jincy thadathil
It was a pleasure working with Rachel on the closing of our home. She is both approachable and kind. We were especially grateful for her prompt responses and attentiveness. Thank you for being so helpful throughout this process!
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06 Nov, 2024 by Anish kokkattil
Dear Rachel and team,
Thank you, for making the legal aspect of our house purchase, a breeze. We were a little nervous, as you would have noticed. Thank you for putting us at ease and patiently answering our questions.
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14 Dec, 2024 by Adrian
I've had an fantastic experience, I was helped right aways, they were super helpful and understanding with everything I asked. Kept me updated and everything.They helped me fight a speeding ticket that I got in upstate NY and got me the result that I wanted, which was 0 points! Had no issues communicating, very professional! Highly recommend it! Don't hesitate. My mother and I are super happy! And will definitely recommend these guys to our friends and family. Thank you again!
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13 Dec, 2024 by Gianni greco
I got my dismissal for a ticket that i reveived while i was riding my motorcycle between lanes. A ticket received 5 years ago. Court outcome has been postponed for 5 years in a row and it finally got dismissed. Miss Ortiz and the whole firm are just specialist in TVB matters. Do not hesitate to contact them if you received traffic tickets.
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05 Dec, 2024 by Jurga ciutaite
I got two tickets and the court date was rescheduled dozen of times over the period of 5 years. During that time, not once a representative from the office gave me attitude or did not return my phone call. Highly professional people work in that office and today I received the notice that both of my tickets were dismissed. I am so grateful for all the support during the time and so relieved. Thank you so much for your help! I truly appreciate it!
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25 Aug, 2021 by Anonymous
I consulted with Ron on a bankruptcy and student loan issue. Come to learn later he has had his own issues with taxes.
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29 Mar, 2018 by Michael
I would highly recommend using Ronald Kim as your bankruptcy attorney. Not only is he very knowledgeable but he has also given us hope and a feeling of ease so that my wife and I can move forward towards and better and less stressful life for our future.
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24 Jul, 2017 by Megan
Highly recommended! Ron handled my case with tenacity and professionalism. I highly recommend him for any sexual harassment case. He made me feel comfortable and backed me up the entire way. His secretary also handled all appointments and calls with accuracy and great customer service.
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22 Nov, 2020 by Anonymous
I feel like Natasha doesn’t try hard enough to help her clients fighter for their home. A friend of mine is struggling to save her home and can’t seem to get anything done for a better mortgage it’s so sad.
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13 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Natasha Meruelo and her staff handled our case flawlessly. We found Natasha to be highly knowledgeable, efficient, dependable and excellent in regards to communication and speed of response to inquiries. Additionally, we found her to be genuinely kind and caring while helping us through a challenging and difficult time in our lives. I would recommend Natasha to anyone facing bankruptcy; you will not find a more professional attorney with kindness to boot.
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21 Feb, 2018 by Sam
She's a 10 star lawyer. Walked me through every step of the process. She kept in constant contact. Answered every question I had. She was there early for both my hearings. Always polite and professional. Highly recommend Natasha Meruelo.
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07 Oct, 2021 by Andrew natale
05 Oct, 2019 by Yvette janis
07 Oct, 2021 by Andrew natale
05 Oct, 2019 by Yvette janis
07 Oct, 2021 by Andrew natale
05 Oct, 2019 by Yvette janis
24 Sep, 2024 by Emanuel molina
They worked so professional and quick with my wife settlement. They kept her updated with the status of her case every single month. So quick, responsive and attentive. They’re the lawyers you need for any case you have. 100% recommended so satisfied with the amount the got us. They push for the most you can so you will definitely be satisfied when that settlement gets to you!
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28 Aug, 2024 by Mike blue
Horrible Lawyer. Disrespectful and unwilling to be cooperative with you as a client. Undeserving of a single star
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24 Aug, 2024 by Arthur keasley
The Best Law Firm in the World. Very Professional and took care of me very well. Give them a call if you are ever injured.
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29 Dec, 2024 by Dannielle spencer
These guys are real winners. They market for medical malpractice but it’s unlikely that you’ll actually be able to speak to anyone or that they’ll take your case because they are “too small” according to what I was told in a text message. They also don’t provide any type of referrals or references.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Curtis chan
Without sharing specifics of our wrongful death case, I will say that the team at Morelli took on our family's case when other firms declined. They believed us and persevered (including through the pandemic) with the case. While it took a few years, the Morelli team was able to reach a settlement for our family to be compensated for our loss. The Morelli team was empathetic and responsive to our questions and needs. While I fervently hope that such a thing never happens to our family again, I would not hesitate to re-engage Morelli for future legal needs.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Francesca midollo
Morelli law firm treated me with respect 🙏 helping out with family members from another state .I appreciate the time and honesty phone conversation. Can't thank you enough for everything .
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16 Dec, 2024 by Raj heeralall
Tucker lawyers is the one of a kind...caring, kindness and most of all...they listen..cant believe how well i was treated...Mr Tom Durand is very professional and very respectful...would recommend them to anyone...wouldn't
go anywhere else
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18 Nov, 2024 by Yahaira vargas
04 Oct, 2024 by Francisco velazquez
Good law firm. I recommended!
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16 May, 2016 by Steve
George has assisted me in various legal matters over the last 2 years and has used his expertise and experience to relieve the burden and tension related to the cases I've had. The results were favorable. Thanks to George and his amazing disposition. I highly recommend you meet him before making a decision on an attorney.
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12 Jun, 2013 by Athena
Great job negotiating my lease
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12 Jun, 2013 by Manny
He saved my house and eliminated my credit card debt
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29 Oct, 2024 by Donald burdick
Went with my sister to support her. Mr Ehrlich was very nice and compassionate. It's too bad that he's retiring soon, as I would definitely hire him for legal purposes.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Talk about it
The worst experience in life with this attorney. She was a court appointed law guardian for my son, he’s four years old. This attorney either doesn’t like black people or just have something against men. The judge put an order in telling me and my son’s mother that neither one of us can take my son out of the capital region. I show Ms. Katz proof that my son was taken outside of the capital region, her response in court on the record “So he was out of town with his mother is not a big deal” this was disrespectful toward the judge, myself and my son. Also the hospital provided a doctors note saying my son doesn’t have health insurance, Ms. Katz said “That doctors note doesn’t say that” I had to have Albany Medical Center provide another doctors note. Never seeing or talking to my son, allowing my son to get burned by his mother as well never addressing the issue. My son was left on the school bus for 1 hour and 30 minutes one day while his mother was In Florida. So many illegal things was done to me and my son.
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11 Mar, 2024 by Trina vanguilder
Ms. Jo Katz has been the best attorney I could've ever asked for!! I have had a very long, annoying and nastiest case and Ms. Jo had handled everything perfectly. She was always accessible, open, 100% honest and upfront with her advice. She had made my life so much easier and I am very great full. Thank you so much Ms. Jo!!!!
~Trina~
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12 Dec, 2024 by Doug r.
Mr. Sternberg was my lawyer for a bankruptcy filing. From the first phone call I had with him, he explained options and quickly responded to any emails, questions, or concerns I had and did so professionally. He was very helpful and made the process go smoothly. I'm very happy I chose him to represent me in this matter.
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04 Dec, 2024 by Kitta sengkeomanivong
John was nice and helpful, he helped with bankruptcy. His assistant was also great to work with!
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11 Oct, 2024 by Janice piccolo
Excellent lawyer took the time and explained everything. Payments were easy and affordable.
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24 Nov, 2024 by Karen sylvester
Falcon Rappaport & Berkman LLP and in particular Richard Weltman helped our family through an unusual and difficult legal real estate issue. In the end he managed a brilliant settlement which kept our family from losing our apartment. Throughout the process Richard Weltman focus on all the details of our case with an enormous empathetic capacity which translated into solid legal advice. We cannot thank him and his staff for their outstanding work that lead to a brilliant end to our13 years of threats of litigation which would have had our family out on the street. Richard Weltman is a one-of-a-kind outstanding lawyer!!
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06 Jun, 2024 by Spockstein adventures
My Employer went with this firm during 2020 For my immigration services to file the 485 Application, They charged 3X than any other competent law firms but they delayed my application delays and costed me 4 years and nothing helped. They were supposed to send on 10/22 but sent on 10/30/2022 because they sent along with other applicants but we paid more fee. we fed hefty fee for bad advices and we regret going with this law firm.Hope this helps to others(It was only one application from our firm and paid as good as 3 you can understand the pain)
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26 Feb, 2024 by Jayoung song
I received a lot of help from Yu Yeong lawyer and everything was resolved quickly. I am so thankful
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12 Jun, 2012 by Connie
Mr. Grossman is a man of integrity. He cares for the needs of the client and what is best for the client. Everything that had to be done in our case was done in an EXCELLENT manner. Should you ever need a bankruptcy attorney, visit his office at Fraley & Fraley in Sacramento. Throughout this bankruptcy ordeal, the one good thing that came out of it was meeting him and the entire staff at Fraley & Fraley. Unlike other attorneys, they truly care about their clients
I WOULD RECOMMEND ANDREW GROSSMAN & STAFF AT FRALEY & FRALEY TO ANYONE NEEDING AN ATTORNEY
(A previous attorney had mis-handled our case so badly. The office of Fraley & Fraley was a God-send, that cleaned up the mess)
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18 May, 2011 by Margaret and bill
My husband and I were sick about having to file bankruptcy,but we had really run out of options. We called Fraley and Fraley and met with attorney Andrew Grossman. He listened and was very helpful. He put our minds at ease and kept us well informed. While I do not recommend getting yourself in this situation, I am telling you and anyone out there who will listen that Attorney Andrew Grossman is the best.
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14 Apr, 2011 by Anonymous
I went through a foreclosure this year and the holder of the 2nd mortgage is trying to collect. Andrew Grossman was extremely knowledgeable about my case he gave me free advice. He printed out forms for both my taxes and for my legal case. He recommended against bankruptcy and spelled out clearly why the mortgager had no real case against me. Free advice and no pressure for him to take my case. He was honest, knowledgeable and helpful. He deserves a perfect score and i would recommend him to anyone.
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31 Mar, 2015 by Patricia
Within moments I felt that I had made the right choice. I felt I was with an attorney who was very confident. She immediately gave me the feeling that my case was in the right hands. Going forward there was never a problem, most importantly follow-up was always in a timely fashion.
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11 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
When I encountered some difficulty commencing my retirement benefits, I called on Kristin to review some correspondence for me. She responded quickly and provided well thought-out legal insights. She also helped me focus my communications and craft them so that they were factual and appropriate. Needless to say, I got the results I wanted and have Kristin to thank for that. I highly recommend her work: she is a competent, well-rounded professional with keen legal insights and a drive to provide the best for her clients.
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04 Mar, 2015 by Stephanie
Ms. White's a fine attorney. She's helped me with a variety of legal matters over the years. She has always been available when I need her and helped me see my way clear multiple times. It's impressive that she worked as a New York Assistant Attorney General before going into private practice. I like the way she'll tell me if she needs to do any extra research on a subject. She's sincere, very personable, and puts you at ease. I highly recommend this attorney.
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09 Feb, 2025 by Shivani todi
Justin is extremely professional, efficient and gave us the best advice on our situation for a swift conclusion. Thank you Justin and team for!
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03 Feb, 2025 by Heather macdonald
My experience with Blitz Law Group was nothing short of outstanding. Justin Blitz handled my case swiftly with the utmost professionalism and care. I highly recommend Blitz Law Group to anyone seeking legal services for personal injury.
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03 Feb, 2025 by Michael a. williams
I had the best representation by Attorney Justin Blitz (Blitz Law Group, LLP)
Attorney Justin Blitz is the type of Attorney who drops everything and concentrates on your case.
He took his time to speak with me and understood all my concerns regarding my lawsuit and to get me the best settlement possible.
He left nothing behind and explained in easy to understand terms that I was able to follow and understood clearly.
Attorney Justin told me the truth regarding my Lawsuit and gave me all the instructions to settle my case.
Without any doubts, I recommend Attorney Justin Blitz (Blitz Law Group, LLP) for you representation.
You will not regret using Blitz Law Group, LLP
Michael A. Williams
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01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
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24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
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24 Jun, 2024 by Donald duck
19 Apr, 2024 by Dave dinkins
Alex was recommended to me by a personal judge/friend of mine.
I attest, he is a very thorough and competent professional who always had my best interests in mind. I was always informed immediately on any task that required my involvement and directed me in a highly professional and warm way. He never missed or rescheduled a meeting and always and I mean always, took my calls or called back within minutes in rare form.
What I especially appreciated about John was his confidence and knowledge of the law and unyielding pursuit of all details. If something was unknown, he would not hypothesize, but obtain the facts unequivocally. Alex is in my opinion, superior in his field, while applying a kind presence - unusual for this field.
My judge/friend was 100% correct and he is worth a 10 min chat, that may change your life...he did mine and my families.
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07 Feb, 2024 by Robin davidson
01 Jan, 2025 by Marie lieber
Attorney Dan Trunk was so caring and helpful during a most trying accident. It took almost 5 years to reach a settlement but Dan was there by my side the whole time. It was a complicated case due to separate municipalities involved. But in the end, Dan won for me! Thanks!!
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24 Dec, 2024 by Jason fairclough
24 Dec, 2024 by Manuel melena
When searching for a family lawyer Mr. Levy was a huge help.
I’m very grateful for The help,
ManuelMelena
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18 Oct, 2024 by Kadijah howell
My experience was a thousand percent great and i would recommend anybody to use this firm,very through and detailed.
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09 Oct, 2024 by Lalit k. jain
10.09.2024 Lalit K Jain Esq Lower back injured in a rearend accident caused by a car driver with $25,000 liability coverage. Invisible soft tissue injuries aggravating preexisting lower back pain made it a tough personal injury case. Visible broken bones and bleeding, etc. make them relatively easy. Zealous lawyers defending injurers will never let go easy even in open and shut cases. Yet, where there is a will, there is a way. And Ira Pearlman Esq did indeed prove it. His unique negotiation skills helped the car insurers throw in the towel: the whole $25,000.00 after initial $10,000.00 offer. It was not enough for Ira. He told me he is going to do his super best to get more from my insurer for the ongoing lower back pain and suffering that has become chronic in need of ongoing pain management, injections, etc. and is permanent knowing that broken bones do get healed and bleedings do end because they are not permanent. His legal expertise speaks for itself. Lalit K Jain Esq.
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12 Sep, 2024 by Steve wright
i just completed my construction accident lawsuit with Ira and Rob and I was very fortunate in that their office settled my case for a very substantial amount of money. more importantly, they were always there for me and communication was great
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03 Oct, 2024 by Narshama mahedeo
Very bad 👎 they just have u stuff sitting there and do nothing since 2020 I applied for and did my biometric and even get my working permit yet
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04 Nov, 2023 by A p
01 Jul, 2020 by Yousuf istajab
I would highly recommend Jennifer Wollenberg, Neaha P. Raol and Charles C. Rush, working in Washington D.C. office. I am U.S Army soldier who got stuck in U.S. citizenship process. Jennifer and her entire team helped me out to obtain my citizenship even though USCIS appeared not to help obtaining my Citizenship. These professionals are highly experienced and helpful through out the process. I am so glad to found this kind of experienced lawyers to defend my case.
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21 Nov, 2024 by Win zyl
You mess with Jones, you get the Jones.
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15 Jul, 2024 by Jonathan bell
You mess with the Jones... You get the Jones.
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23 Jun, 2024 by Glitch time
You mess with the Jones, you get the Jones
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03 Oct, 2024 by Narshama mahedeo
Very bad 👎 they just have u stuff sitting there and do nothing since 2020 I applied for and did my biometric and even get my working permit yet
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04 Nov, 2023 by A p
01 Jul, 2020 by Yousuf istajab
I would highly recommend Jennifer Wollenberg, Neaha P. Raol and Charles C. Rush, working in Washington D.C. office. I am U.S Army soldier who got stuck in U.S. citizenship process. Jennifer and her entire team helped me out to obtain my citizenship even though USCIS appeared not to help obtaining my Citizenship. These professionals are highly experienced and helpful through out the process. I am so glad to found this kind of experienced lawyers to defend my case.
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28 Sep, 2010 by Anonymous
A pleasure to work with, which sometimes is not the case with many attorneys. He respects the needs of his client and works to the cases in the best interest of his client. I recommend him without hesitation.
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30 Dec, 2008 by Anonymous
From the moment we sat down to review our contract of sale with Mr. Greco on the purchase of our home and right through to our closing Mr. Greco was responsive, informative, aware of our file and a pleasure to deal with. I would recommend him without hesitation. He is also nice to the eye.
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05 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
Richard is my go to person when I need any legal advise. I have been working with him for over 20 years. Whether for business or personal reasons, I trust Richard and I know he will always do all possible to help me with my needs. I recommend him for sure.
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05 Jun, 2017 by Paul
This is the one to go to for sage advise, based on decades of experience.
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05 Mar, 2013 by Douglas
Al represented my company in mediation proceedings facing the Lehman estate as well as in negotiations with several other Wall Street firms regarding various repurchase financing agreements, derivative contracts and other contractual matters. He grasped the business issues presented exceedingly quickly and effectively related them to the legal concepts involved despite the lack of clear precedents. He and his team built a conclusive case for us quickly when time was of the essence and provided the legal backing we needed to successfully negotiate. Moreover his style was calmly reassuring rather than confrontational. I would recommend Al's representation to any commercial client.
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21 Feb, 2013 by Todd
Alan has represented Southern Union for many years. He is always responsive, thorough and very knowledgeable. Alan has efficiently and successfully guided us through difficult issues with extremely successful results.
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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.
