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06 Aug, 2024 by Keith
Jeff is the kind of lawyer you want to find and have to help you through the bankruptcy process. The depth of the information he provides is staggering at times (in a great way), and he will always answer every question you can throw at him, usually in minutes. He gives you a detailed timeline of the process, what to expect, what he recommends and advises to do, and is always in constant contact so that you don't feel overwhelmed or alone in dealing with what can be an embarrassing experience. He is an excellent lawyer and I would recommend him to anyone!!
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31 May, 2024 by Anthony
Jeff kept me informed about everything that was happening in my case. He would respond to my questions the same day, often within minutes. I didn't really know what to expect when filing for Bankruptcy. Attorney Hagen's expertise made this an extremely smooth experience. I would give him ten stars but I'm only allowed to give him five. I got a fresh start again thanks to you!
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25 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous
I was forced to file Chapter 7 after being left with overwhelming medical debt after the passing of my wife. Not only was Jeff extremely professional in taking care of every last detail with immediate response and top notch advice, he was also caring and compassionate with regard to my situation. I highly recommend his services.
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06 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Stella was excellent in the BK process of mine from the start till the end. She is very knowledgeable & hands down the best BK lawyer in town. She is prompt with her responses & also very personable. All aspects of my BK procedure went very smoothly. I recommend her to anyone that is looking for a great bankruptcy attorney.
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25 May, 2022 by Tess
At the start of the pandemic, my business was forced to close and my mother was simultaneously diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease which left me no choice but to file for bankruptcy. My accountant referred Stella stating she had a very calming demeanor and he was confident she would be a positive spirit to help me through the difficult times I was going through. From the first phone call, I was CRAZY ABOUT HER!!! Stella worked diligently on my case; she left no stone unturned and in my personal opinion (I've never filed bankruptcy before) she went above and beyond the call of duty to make sure I was treated fairly. She took the stress away due to calls from creditors by absorbing all negative communication on my behalf; accepted documents at all times of the night or day and was there for me during a couple of tearful days when I just felt overwhelmed dealing with the bankruptcy, business failure, and my mom's medical diagnosis. One significant thing I want to mention - there was a lien on my property and out of nowhere, Stella remembered and filed a motion to make sure it was addressed before the charge off which saved me from possibly paying a company nearly 30K!!! I still don't know how she remembered such an isolated detail but thank God She Did!!! When my bankruptcy was charged off, I was actually sad because that meant I wasn't going to hear from Stella again....but I still email her monthly just to stay in touch because at the end of the day, she gave me a fresh financial start and I owe my new clean financial status to her! If you need a bankruptcy attorney who is smart, professional, well organized, compassionate, and just a great person - I HIGHLY recommend hiring Stella Havkin. She's the BEST!!!
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25 Jan, 2019 by Nellike
Stella is AMAZING! She very successfully completed a Chapter 13 Filing for me recently and I HIGHLY recommend her for anyone considering Bankruptcy 7 or 13. She is always very responsive and on top of everything. The bankruptcy process can be complicated and confusing and she always makes sure to explain everything in great detail so you are able to follow the process. She is HONEST and CARING and deserves 10 Stars! I will definitely be using Stella Havkin again for my future Estate Planning needs. I'm very pleased with such wonderful service!
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09 Jun, 2015 by Anonymous
I had a horrible situation where the apartment manager of my complex used his financial means to coerce someone into committing perjury and submitting a false declaration against me to get a restraining order to kick me out of my building. The apt. mgr had hired a federal prosecutor and was out to ruin my life, but Fadi and his team would not back down and we ended up settling outside of court. Fadi cares about his clients and not only is he a shrewd lawyer, but he's also a good man and I will be forever grateful. I always refer him.
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25 Oct, 2012 by Majed
If you really want a direct, personal, and honest experience with a lawyer, Fadi Amer is the man to go to. I had complications with my insurance claim after I had gotten into a car accident. I ended up trying a few different attorneys before I ended up with Mr. Amer. From the very beginning, I was warmly welcomed to the firm (with lots of smiles and care), and was able to see Mr. Amer, not too long after my arrival. He had already looked into my case, and immediately started to go over it with me detail by detail, explaining everything along the way. In all honesty, what made him stand out was how upfront he was with the situation and at the same time I can really see that he is a caring person. Despite Mr. Amer's professionalism, he still made me feel very comfortable to the point where I felt as if I have known him for years. Also, what I really liked was the fact that he followed up with case almost immediately and constantly, making sure that all my questions were answered. Plus his first consultation is super cheap. Give him a call, I guarantee you that you find a lawyer that will be as helpful, professional, and caring as him.
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05 Sep, 2011 by Sandra
I was involved in a very serious car accident which left me severly injured and left with a limp. I want and saw 3 other personal injury attorneys and just hated how pushy and salesmen like they were. Fadi was 180 degrees different and actually encouraged me to see other attorneys. Everything about my experience with Law22 was excellent, and the overall result of my case was more than I expected. As soonas Fadi took over my case I felt instantly relieved and I knew that they were going to take care of me. I highly recommend Mr. Amer!
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08 Oct, 2019 by Raquel
Unfortunately I was blindsided by a lawsuit to be considered as an emergency situation but Glenn Calsada and his knowledgeable team worked everything out in a timely matter. They are professional and very helpful which made the situation easier to deal with. Highly recommended!
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08 Oct, 2019 by Raquel
Unfortunately I was blindsided by a lawsuit that was considered an emergency situation. Glenn Calsada and his knowledgeable team worked everything out! With their experience and helpful service the process was very easy to resolve. Highly recommend!
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26 Feb, 2019 by Anonymous
I recently hired an attorney and in the middle of my case she quit practicing. My case was turned over to Glenn Ward's office. I was little worried at first but their knowledgeable staff contacted me explaining all the details. I met with Mr. Lafayette Ward and other staff members and each time I was impressed with their personal attention and high quality service. On my court date Glenn Ward was present and took care of my case and my financial problems are all solved. My experience with Glenn Ward was nothing but High quality service, great customer care and personal attention to my case. I highly recommend him. Thank you Mr. Ward for a great service Your happy client
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15 Jul, 2024 by Dagher elie
I had the pleasure of working with Shant, and i could not recommend him and his law firm enough!!
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20 Jun, 2024 by Pop alot
So glad I came to Goorjian Law for my legal needs. Very professional and knowledgeable. Made the process so smooth. Thank you again
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10 Apr, 2024 by B. k.
I was involved in a car accident early last year. A friend, who had previously chosen Shant Goorjian to represent her with her accident case, gave me his office number. I was so impressed by his knowledge. He was very communicative and on top of my case till the very end. Highly recommended!
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04 Jan, 2024 by Marie kinsey
If want to lose your case.. I would highly recommend him.
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03 Jan, 2024 by Alexus bell
I'm not one to write reviews but I felt I had to save someone the time and money. I'm a single mother and hired Mr Morris back in October 2023. When I called he immediately answered but told me he was at church and would get back to me. He did indeed got back to me. I told him I really needed help and I needed an aggressive attorney dealing with my Childs father for my child custody case. I decided to go with him because he seemed trustworthy and he was the only lawyer that allowed payments towards the retainer fee. I felt so relieved to have an attorney and someone to represent me. After my contracts were signed he was so difficult to get in touch with. He never asked me questions about my case and I never heard from anyone unless I called them. He has a call center answering once you become a client and he has 2 paralegals named Amy and Kristina. I always spoke to Kristina and she said I needed to relax and that my case was a simple case. Implying that it was going to be smooth and I had nothing to worry about. When they finally filed the paperwork for me to serve my daughters father I had to keep calling them in regards to that matter also. It was a week before my case and I still hadn't heard anything back from Kristina or Mr Morris.. Coming to find out she had a death in her family and Mr Morris was on vacation in Belize. Since he was gone my daughters fathers attorney managed to get the case moved to the Whittier courthouse when we filed in LA and had them served. So now I'm the recipient and he's the petitioner. He let this other Attorney walk all over him and call the shots. Btw The judge in Whittier was a nightmare. She has terrible reviews and is bias. But At this point my anxiety is through the roof because I can't get in touch with anyone, we don't have a case to present because they still haven't asked or guided me on anything to do. He didnt tell me to start documenting anything or pulling up text! Nothing. I had to have my mom call from her number because once you become a client they screen your calls. She pretended to be interested in hiring him and guess what! He called her back. After a month of not speaking to me at all. So he finally gave me an appointment to meet him at his office to go over my case. He never wrote down any notes of asked me what the other party could have against me. Nothing! Finally court, Mr Morris showed up 30 minutes late to court! He didn't register us, when we were in front of the judge he didn't know my case. The Judge asked him what was the status quo and he turned and asked me. I almost got contempt of court because he wasn't saying anything of substance out of his mouth that I told him. They judge kept asking him what was his point. He was talking circles. It was completely embarrassing. He had no fight in court! He didn't take notes at all in court either. You are better off representing yourself. After that horrible experience, I was so distraught. I fired him the next day. He still proceeded to tell the third party who I was going through to pay for him that he rendered all my services and I still owed him 4000 dollars. I will be suing him and reporting them to the bar. He's a money hungry lazy attorney that uses his faith as a front. He doesn't care about making sure you keep your family together.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Epic fun
I had a conversation with Morris to get some clarification on a legal matter and he was very helpful and gave good advice.
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04 Jan, 2024 by Marie kinsey
If want to lose your case.. I would highly recommend him.
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star star star star star
03 Jan, 2024 by Alexus bell
I'm not one to write reviews but I felt I had to save someone the time and money. I'm a single mother and hired Mr Morris back in October 2023. When I called he immediately answered but told me he was at church and would get back to me. He did indeed got back to me. I told him I really needed help and I needed an aggressive attorney dealing with my Childs father for my child custody case. I decided to go with him because he seemed trustworthy and he was the only lawyer that allowed payments towards the retainer fee. I felt so relieved to have an attorney and someone to represent me. After my contracts were signed he was so difficult to get in touch with. He never asked me questions about my case and I never heard from anyone unless I called them. He has a call center answering once you become a client and he has 2 paralegals named Amy and Kristina. I always spoke to Kristina and she said I needed to relax and that my case was a simple case. Implying that it was going to be smooth and I had nothing to worry about. When they finally filed the paperwork for me to serve my daughters father I had to keep calling them in regards to that matter also. It was a week before my case and I still hadn't heard anything back from Kristina or Mr Morris.. Coming to find out she had a death in her family and Mr Morris was on vacation in Belize. Since he was gone my daughters fathers attorney managed to get the case moved to the Whittier courthouse when we filed in LA and had them served. So now I'm the recipient and he's the petitioner. He let this other Attorney walk all over him and call the shots. Btw The judge in Whittier was a nightmare. She has terrible reviews and is bias. But At this point my anxiety is through the roof because I can't get in touch with anyone, we don't have a case to present because they still haven't asked or guided me on anything to do. He didnt tell me to start documenting anything or pulling up text! Nothing. I had to have my mom call from her number because once you become a client they screen your calls. She pretended to be interested in hiring him and guess what! He called her back. After a month of not speaking to me at all. So he finally gave me an appointment to meet him at his office to go over my case. He never wrote down any notes of asked me what the other party could have against me. Nothing! Finally court, Mr Morris showed up 30 minutes late to court! He didn't register us, when we were in front of the judge he didn't know my case. The Judge asked him what was the status quo and he turned and asked me. I almost got contempt of court because he wasn't saying anything of substance out of his mouth that I told him. They judge kept asking him what was his point. He was talking circles. It was completely embarrassing. He had no fight in court! He didn't take notes at all in court either. You are better off representing yourself. After that horrible experience, I was so distraught. I fired him the next day. He still proceeded to tell the third party who I was going through to pay for him that he rendered all my services and I still owed him 4000 dollars. I will be suing him and reporting them to the bar. He's a money hungry lazy attorney that uses his faith as a front. He doesn't care about making sure you keep your family together.
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30 Oct, 2023 by Epic fun
I had a conversation with Morris to get some clarification on a legal matter and he was very helpful and gave good advice.
Read more Google Maps
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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