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27 Apr, 2022 by C brown
Mr Gray is very pleasant. He listens to concerns completely & focused on the matter at hand with a plan to back it up. When I talked to him, he discussed different view points & tactics. He didn't sugar-coat things. He was straight forward & even recited different laws & statues as he went over possible scenarios. He made us feel much better because he thinks things through. He was punctual & actually early when meeting up. We are confident knowing we have someone who cares & knows the law.
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13 Jul, 2021 by Melanie
Sean is an intelligent fighter who offered a free consultation. I found him by referall after hitting bottom from numerous other phone calls with other attorneys. That phone call with him gave me hope. He was fair in price and determined. He gave me insight. He was able to accomplish so much for my husband! He gave us details and answered every call and text I sent even if it was Sunday. We appreciate his approach and his style. He is the best and will recommend him every time!
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09 May, 2021 by Antonio hipps
03 Aug, 2023 by M
Bryan and his staff kept me well informed and assisted me every step of the way.
Bryan's team is not like the big box groups in the area. They are personable and treat you as a person rather than a number. They addressed my concerns in a fast professional manner and everyone of them had been resolved. They know and understand the law to the T.
Thank you Bryan and team for making the process seamless and complete.
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19 Jun, 2023 by Constance
Thanks to the diligence and patience of Bryan and his staff, we were able to enter into and complete our 5 year bankruptcy. Bryan is thoroughly knowledgeable about the intricacies of bankruptcy law, and he insured we understood the process every step of the way. Thanks to him, we were able to see, and eventually reached, the light at the end of the dark tunnel.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Vicki
Bryan helped us through a difficult time. His staff is very good. We would recommend him to anyone needing an attorney. Explained each step in the process to make sure we understood what was next in the process.
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22 Apr, 2023 by Shawn
One of the best lawyers I’ve ever spoken and had the pleasure working with courteous respectful and honest very nice She took care of my issue with a creditor and made them responsible for there mistakes if I had to do this again I’d want her as my attorney ! I’ was very satisfied with the outcome of my case her communication was excellent making sure you knew what was going on My case did not take long to be settled! Again very satisfied with the results! Thank you again Emily and I will always refer you to anyone who is going to need representation!
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18 Jun, 2021 by Pollie
EMILY GOMEZ is the true depiction of a GREAT LAWYER
So much more then a good lawyer
SHE IS A GREAT LAWYER
Great in the fact that Emily owned my problem and engenders the belief that she would do everything to help me succeed
Emily is more then just capable and expected to do a good job. She will do what she says she will do by being early-fully prepared. She personalized our relationship by recognizing my unique style interest and my needs Emily want far beyond what a good lawyer would do. That to makers her as a GREAT LAWYER
My issues with the bank that unlawful took my monies have been resolved
Emily’s knowledge of law, abilities to act and finalization of my bank issues have led me to the conclusion that
SHE IS A GREAT LAWYER
I recommend Emily for your legal issues
She is more than a good lawyer
EMILY GOMEZ IS A GREAT LAWYER
Thank you Emily
God Bless
P
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22 Sep, 2020 by Linda
Recommended to anyone in debt over their head!! Emily is the best for many reasons. 1. She charges a flat rate. Many attorneys charge for a percent of the debt. In my case this would have costed me thousands more than what I paid Emily. 2 She is the most knowledgeable person I know and I've spoken to other attorneys who understand the rules but not as good as Emily. 3 she's gotten me much more than I can ever imagine on cases where I owed debt. Because of her knowledge of the law and rules against the way certain letters are worded, she has gotten me money on these cases. I would recommend Emily to anyone dealing with debt or financial hardship. She's amazing
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03 Aug, 2016 by Jim
We we're on the verge of losing our building and our livelihood, But David Valenciks knowledge and professionalism with the state, federal, and local court system was able to relieve from a very, very dire situation!!!
I can't say enough nor thank him enough for his dedication and personal convictions to our case!! Highly recommend David Valencik to all that may be in a similar hardship situation.
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07 Jul, 2016 by Bobbie braddock
David is an excellent attorney. He was very respectful to us and our situation. He worked hard for us and saved our home, rental properties, and many other personal items. He made a horrible time in our life manageable. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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16 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
I have worked extensively with Attorney Valencik and his firm on a variety of bankruptcy and insolvency matters. Attorney Valencik has consistently demonstrated extensive knowledge of the law in these areas. Additionally, he routinely formulates and implements creative, cost-effective strategies to implement the objectives of his clients.
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07 Aug, 2019 by James
I was being harassed and sued by a company that I didn't know anything about or even had heard of I was frightened almost to death after speaking with Mark he assured me that he could help me he represented me and it was bye bye.
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17 Jan, 2019 by Nancy
Thomas Papadakos and attorney Moynihan handles a case for me from a creditor which save me over 3000$
They only had to go to the magistrate once and it was resolved in my favor !!
Try them ; they are skilled at helping clients avoid unfair debt collection practices and fees.
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09 Aug, 2018 by Emily
Attorney Moynihan is wonderful and truly cares about his clients. Recently he helped me get some errors off of my credit report that were there after my old cable company refused to terminate service when I asked and reported me delinquent. We filed a lawsuit, got the errors off, and got compensation for the stress I went through. He also helped me last year when I started receiving someone else's medical bills due to mistaken identity. We filed a lawsuit and made the debt collectors leave me alone. I couldn't be more pleased with his services!
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19 Feb, 2017 by Bill peterson
Terrific bankruptcy lawyer who really helped me out big time in Pittsburgh. Thanks again!
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05 Jan, 2017 by Sara
I consulted Mr. Robleto concerning some financial difficulties I had experienced a few years ago. He guided me in the right direction, and fortunately, bankruptcy was not in my best financial interest. I believe his ethics as well as expertise benifitted me beyond what I can say.
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06 Apr, 2015 by Marie
Earlier this year I engaged Robleto Law, PLLC for business services and highly recommend this firm. I worked directly with Mr. Robleto, who was able to resolve my matter in a very timely manner. He is very knowledgeable within his trade and researched anything that branched into another area of law in order to verify the information and advice he was providing me, was indeed accurate.
In addition to being well schooled and experienced in law, Mr. Robleto had an extraordinary social etiquette; the opposite from what I expected from a lawyer. He was a fantastic listener, patient (I’m not well versed in legal jargon), timely for appointments, and exceptionally speedy with returning my calls and emails. It was evident from his demeanor that his clients are very important to him. When working with Mr. Robleto, he made me feel as though I had his full attention and was his most important client.
Upon entering into my legal agreement with Robleto Law, PLLC, I was expecting a lengthy, drawn out, expensive process. I was pleasantly surprised when Mr. Robleto was able to finalize my matter within a few weeks and even happier to acquire the totality of my final bill. It became evident that this firm operates differently than its competitors. I highly recommend utilizing Rrobleto Law, PLLC for any business related services.
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26 Jun, 2019 by Hang
My friend had introduced Mrs Thornton to me, she an excellent lawyer.
She went above and beyond and educated me to overcome things need to be done.
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25 Mar, 2015 by Chris
Crystal was very informative and worked with me on my tough case. I would highly recommend her for assistance in bankruptcy matters,
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23 Aug, 2014 by Pam
In a stressful time, with my finances and emotions stretched to the maximum, Attorney Duchene's calm analysis of my alternatives and simple, insightful advice made it possible to make a decision based on real choices and not despair. She walked me through all the steps that I would need to take, the consequences of the decisions I faced, and what I could expect all along the way. She didn't judge me by the mistakes I had made and made it possible for me to stop and respond rationally. There's no one I would rather have on my side in a crisis.
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04 Jun, 2014 by Sharon
John Lacher is by far the most knowledgeable, professional lawyer who handled my bankruptcy with the utmost care. Years later, I had a question regarding this and he not only took my call, but assured me that it was handled under my bankruptcy. He is an amazing attorney! Look no further if you are considering bankruptcy!
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
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03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by M.j. vee
We have seen Carol over the last few years several times. She is courteous, knowledgeable, and very helpful . We are confident in the service she provides.
Joyce and Vitelli.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Brittany tkac
From the very first time we talked with crystal and sometimes Bethany they took care of every need, concern, and obstacles! They explained everything to us in our terms so we clearly understood every step. Always got back in reasonable timely manner. They drafted a divorce didn’t matter the other party refused to sign. Every single motion got returned in the mail (anything to make this more difficult) so we also had the pleasure of dealing with CSI serving papers for us at least 5 times and again very fast and easy to work with! We have friends that started a divorce before us and ours is final and they are still in the process! Also at the end we were crunched on time trying to sell a house (couldn’t until we had the paper) and again crystal said I don’t care if I have to walk it over to the judge we will get this done! They did not disappoint any obstacle they quickly had the next step in motion!
THANK YOU CRYSTAL
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22 Sep, 2024 by Marc duchin
17 Sep, 2024 by Charles mupamombe
12 Jun, 2024 by Brett montgomery
I had a very good experience working with Beth Shovlin on the closing of a house recently. She was very knowledgeable, and easy to understand when it came to "legal speak". I appreciate all the hard work she did to make this closing seamless, and being so flexible with meeting with me. I recommend working with Beth for anyone who has real estate needs.
Thanks Beth!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Dominic reale
If I could give a 0 stars I would. I do not recommend using this law firm unless you want to have a disaster happen to you . I hired this law firm to sell a popular piece of property in heart of downtown Pittsburgh. The Attorney that was assigned to me, Beth Shovlin has zero knowledge of the law , i don'teven know how she is a attorney , she doesn't understand any of the laws and gives horrible legal advice. Beth admitted making a huge blunder and just quit during the negotiations and kept the retainer. Which is a disgrace. Beth cost me tons of money to fix what she admittedly got wrong . I even paid double the amount of retainer fee that the firm was asking to have the property sold asap . Beth Shovlin was so awful. If she had any integrity, she would have resigned at the beginning & sent me to a transactional lawyer. If you want a gaint disaster on your hands and incomplete transactions, and incompetent lawyers representing you then hire this law firm . They have zero understanding of the real estate laws .
Beth Shovlin should resign as a attorney because she doesn't know anything about anything. As mentioned I had to hire another attorney to rectify the contract. Total waste of time . There are plenty of better options out there then this Law firm . This law firm is a total waste of time and money. Highly recommend staying far away from this Law firm .
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14 Sep, 2023 by J h
Beth is very kind and professional!
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12 Jun, 2024 by Brett montgomery
I had a very good experience working with Beth Shovlin on the closing of a house recently. She was very knowledgeable, and easy to understand when it came to "legal speak". I appreciate all the hard work she did to make this closing seamless, and being so flexible with meeting with me. I recommend working with Beth for anyone who has real estate needs.
Thanks Beth!
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07 Nov, 2023 by Dominic reale
If I could give a 0 stars I would. I do not recommend using this law firm unless you want to have a disaster happen to you . I hired this law firm to sell a popular piece of property in heart of downtown Pittsburgh. The Attorney that was assigned to me, Beth Shovlin has zero knowledge of the law , i don'teven know how she is a attorney , she doesn't understand any of the laws and gives horrible legal advice. Beth admitted making a huge blunder and just quit during the negotiations and kept the retainer. Which is a disgrace. Beth cost me tons of money to fix what she admittedly got wrong . I even paid double the amount of retainer fee that the firm was asking to have the property sold asap . Beth Shovlin was so awful. If she had any integrity, she would have resigned at the beginning & sent me to a transactional lawyer. If you want a gaint disaster on your hands and incomplete transactions, and incompetent lawyers representing you then hire this law firm . They have zero understanding of the real estate laws .
Beth Shovlin should resign as a attorney because she doesn't know anything about anything. As mentioned I had to hire another attorney to rectify the contract. Total waste of time . There are plenty of better options out there then this Law firm . This law firm is a total waste of time and money. Highly recommend staying far away from this Law firm .
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14 Sep, 2023 by J h
Beth is very kind and professional!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Dr crisatina pennybaker
Watch this judge today extremely fair judge
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04 Jul, 2023 by Elle damon
04 Jun, 2023 by John abram
To be continued
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10 Sep, 2024 by Doug ament
I use Elliot and Davis for all my legal needs. Eric Davis always takes the extra time and makes sure I have no questions and I appreciate that more than you can know. I have been exceptionally pleased with their service.
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09 Sep, 2024 by Robert burack
Incredibly helpful team of smart, communicative lawyers who have helped my business with a number of contractual issues over the years.
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07 Sep, 2024 by Jacqueline sakala
Mr. Elliott is handling a serious injury claim for my friend, but he also helped me with a claim against my former landlord and made sure I was fully protected. I would strongly recommend him to anyone needing a lawyer.
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26 Apr, 2024 by Annette
Don was able to maximize the amount of time we needed to get settled in a new home. He answered all our questions in a timely manner. We could not be more thankful! A job well done!
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08 Sep, 2023 by Dr crisatina pennybaker
Watch this judge today extremely fair judge
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04 Jul, 2023 by Elle damon
24 Oct, 2024 by Dana rizzo
From the experience I had with John Morris, I would not recommend to anyone. I was told at the beginning of my son’s divorce that should be know more than $3000. Only because he doesn’t have any assets at all nor did his ex wife. There are no children involved. Two years later after the ex finally decided to sign the paper work, we get an invoice of an additional $3500 dollars. They said he spent 16 hours on a divorce that had no assets, absolutely no property and no contest. It was just sitting on his desk waiting for the ex to sign. My son was charged $6500 for this. This is unethical.
Read more
03 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin vranish
Garrett Trettel turned a very unfortunate situation into as positive an experience as it could've been. He was polite, friendly, knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and he really helped me get back on my feet. I really appreciate all the hard work from everyone here, especially Garrett. Thank you.
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27 Sep, 2024 by Xinyan “shannon” ye
Attorney Phil DiLucente was absolutely amazing to work with. He was not only knowledgeable and professional, but also genuinely caring and compassionate. Phil went above and beyond to help our family during a difficult time, and we are so grateful for his guidance and support.
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26 Mar, 2023 by Amanda watters
12 Jun, 2021 by Dean coates
Craig was a wonderful lawyer he took care of everything I needed👍👍
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29 May, 2021 by Ron deer
Professional, gives you the time you need and doesn't let people take you for granted. Great team.
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22 Aug, 2017 by Mac ballet
Mr. Roteman was very precise, thorough and direct in his consultation which I learned a lot from and appreciated very, very much.
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02 Jun, 2016 by Mark
I have had the distinct honor of having Mr. Roteman be involved in what is, more than likely my worst business financial disasters in my 35 year of being in business.
From the 1st consultation thru the entire process, having his experience, tenacity, knowledge of the law was only exceeded by the compassion he exudes to his clients in truly their time of need.
Ron Roteman should be your only choice when it counts and the chips are truly down!
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01 Jun, 2016 by Anonymous
Most of us need an attorney when something has gone wrong in our lives, business partner dispute, marriage, neighbor dispute over property, etc., etc., and what is needed at that point is a strong characteristic of an attorney to straighten out the mess. Ron Roteman, esq. fits that role. He is attentive, knowledgeable on the issues; he places himself in front of the adversary on your behalf regardless of the circumstances and all done in a very professional manner. Personalities are important when confronted with extraordinary legal situations, so you want the best. Ron handled my entire business case, while keeping me from total bankruptcy.
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21 May, 2024 by Shuichi fujimoto
Wonderful law firm
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31 Jul, 2023 by Some one
31 Jul, 2023 by A.k. bosco
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
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13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
27 Jun, 2024 by Denise ormeño
I been trying to talk to them since February every time I call the assistant writes my info and tell me okey “I put urgent and that they will call you back”now is to late to sue my work 😡😡 Worst lawyer
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13 May, 2024 by Bre nace
Helped me get a nice cash settlement rather quick! Would definitely use this company again in the future if I dealt with another lemon. They were super helpful throughout the entire process and kept us informed every step of the way.
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10 Apr, 2024 by Valerie wallace collier
16 Jul, 2023 by Ms. k. baskin
20 Jul, 2021 by Andrew sanderbeck
08 Jun, 2021 by Joe shebetich
Honestly, I couldn't be more pleased with having attorney Robb Gavin help me with my real estate needs. I have just used him again for assistance in another real estate issue that he came through for me again! I was very pleasantly surprised how expedient and fair he was with his fees. Mr. Gavin originally asked me for a retainer to secure his services. He was so efficient with his work that he sent me back more than half his retainer. You can't be more honest than that!
Thanks Robb!
Joseph Shebetich
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21 Jul, 2022 by Umesh rao
Mr. Alex Castrodale and his team are simply the best. They are always available and responsive. They give you solid advice and did all my legal paperwork diligently, never had to do it twice. I recommend this law firm and Mr Castrodale very highly.
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01 Oct, 2021 by Denys fedorchenko
I was recommended the firm by my educational institution since, they had several successful cases with them. I had a chance to work with Alex Castradale one of the attorney who represents Immigration field. Alex, is extremely professional and knowledgeable attorney. He was always quick in response, and always was able to find a time for a call and communication. He was able to answer all of my questions, and provide a valuable advise on the case. It was a pleasure to work with him, highly recommend!
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30 Jan, 2021 by Sheina s
Extremely unprofessional and unqualified in handling legal matters; I had a better idea myself on how to draft my application. The firm included both supporting and contradicting materials in my application and the final application was poor, contradicting and carelessly crafted.
Never available for any questions or queries. The entire experience was draining, negative and of being left out in the cold. I wish I had chosen wisely and saved $$$$$.
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23 Mar, 2024 by Michael klawansky
14 Nov, 2023 by Marshall woodley
They are incredible, highly motivated attorneys relentless for their clients.
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14 Sep, 2023 by Chris c
Overpriced. Not transparent with pricing until case is closed.
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27 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
He was hired for my bankruptcy case after a divorce. He was helpful during the process. I was discharged. My case, from what I understood later on (when he was contacted) was left open after my discharge. When I finally received my retirement funds; Bankruptcy came and collected 1/3 of my retirement funds upon receipt. (I was not informed this could happen during the bankruptcy process.) I had to withdraw my retirement funds early to pay BR. After that I was right back in the same boat again - facing another hardship. Very disappointing.
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14 Jun, 2018 by Ann
I was recently divorced and on the verge of losing my home and I felt like I was at the lowest point in my life. After just one free consultation with Attorney Eisen he showed me that there was still hope. He helped me to keep both my house and my sanity. Thank you Attorney Michael Eisen for giving me my life back.
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10 May, 2017 by Peter
Friendly and responsive.
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28 Jun, 2024 by Mike sizemore
I recently had a disappointing experience with Lynch Carpenter LLP. I retained their services to review a potential claim against Harbor Freight regarding the information tracking practices on their website. Unfortunately, my experience was far from satisfactory.
From the outset, communication was sparse and uninformative. Despite the initial promise of investigating potential violations of privacy laws that could result in significant statutory penalties, I found myself repeatedly in the dark about the progress of my case.
The firm did not provide timely updates or clear explanations of the steps being taken in the investigation. This lack of transparency left me feeling uncertain and frustrated. Whenever I attempted to reach out for more information, the responses were either delayed or non-existent.
Additionally, the promises made during the initial consultation seemed to evaporate as time went on. There was little to no evidence of substantial progress, and I felt like my case was not being given the attention it deserved. Given the potential for significant statutory penalties of up to $5,000, I expected a more diligent and proactive approach.
Overall, my experience with Lynch Carpenter LLP was deeply disappointing. I would not recommend their services based on the lack of communication, transparency, and apparent commitment to my case.
Don't pay them a Penny if you value a Dollar.
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10 Jun, 2024 by Brooklyn bridges
Horrible experience they negatively impacted my case and life
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03 Jun, 2024 by Tea jane-ann
Been waiting since 2018 to settle a case. Haven’t received any information or a resolution since.
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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.
