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17 Sep, 2014 by David
I am a lawyer and represented plaintiffs in a breach of contract case. We used Houchins to help w/ a half-day mediation session with good results at a reasonable price. He was good at understanding the issues, getting to the point in the short time available and bridging the gap between the parties. If I ever need another mediator in Austin, I will call him.
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23 Feb, 2012 by Cassandra
Jack recently represented us in a CPS trial. It was a tricky case that involved another family as well as our own. We were terrified but Jack absolutely came through for us. Neither myself nor my husband had ever been involved in any sort of legal problems before and he was there for us every step of the way. As awful as our situation was, we thought there was no way we would lose our case because we hadn't done anything wrong. After an initial hearing (with another attorney that was friends with Jack and referred us after the first hearing), we realized just how serious our situation was. Apparently civil cases don't need the burden of proof that criminal cases do to convict, and with our children being threatened, well, there just aren't words for what we felt. Jack walked us through the entire process and his knowledge on the topic of family law was intimidating to say the least. I hope that no one ever has to experience what our family experienced but if you do, you could not place your trust in a more deserving individual. He absolutely knows what he is doing.
Just to add, I will say that we were initially put off by his office because I think we expected some nice, spacious room with a bunch of furniture that never gets used, plants all over the place, etc., and I think we called him entirely too often because of our inexperience with attorneys but he was never impatient with us and always returned our calls as soon as he was able. Oh, and for anyone familiar with CPS, even though we lost the initial hearing, our case was, for all intents and purposes, over only a month later. Even though we didn't have another hearing for 6 months, we did everything Jack asked us to which showed the Judge that we had nothing to hide. CPS allowed our children home well before the closing date of our case.
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30 Dec, 2015 by John
This is a truly outstanding lawyer with an academic knowledge of a wide variety of commercial fields and tremendous practical experience representing a wide variety of different clients. One of the very best!
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24 Sep, 2011 by Rebecca armstrong
he is smart and I trust him. he led me down the right path
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31 Jul, 2013 by Anonymous
My grandmother was being seriously mistreated at a nursing home outside of San Antonio and I was desperate for an answer. I was notified from a friend about an attorney who did work for his brother. Mr. McGill was very professional and understanding. He resolved my case within a year and ended a trying time in my life. Very thankful.
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26 Feb, 2024 by Bill happel
Outstanding service, communication, attention to detail and results. They could not have been better.
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25 Nov, 2020 by Mario montemayor
I highly recommend Doan law firm. Jimmy Doan and team are all very knowledgeable of their jobs. Everyone is professional, kind and they make you feel like your their #1 priority, they explained the process and got right to work. I would recommend them to ANYONE who came my way.
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07 Oct, 2018 by Liliana camarena
Had a great experience with this law firm. I really recommend them.
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11 Oct, 2021 by Code blox
Aber Law Firm is simply the best! If you own/ operate a SaaS company, or need legal advice relating to your software offerings, I highly recommend using this firm. Jeremy is a fantastic lawyer who is a leading expert in the field of SaaS offerings. The Aber law firm team is very responsive and provides outstanding legal support.
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18 Sep, 2020 by Alex buckles
Aber Law Firm is top notch. Jeremy is responsive, professional, and highly skilled in his profession. Most attorneys I've worked with in the past want to create custom agreements for every possible scenario. Jeremy has standard agreements on hand for common needs and tweaks them as necessary. In doing so, he may only spend 10-15 minutes on the phone with you, to talk through what needs to be tweaked. He also only bills for time actually spent. I have other attorneys that will drag their feet and try to keep me on for a full 30 or 60, when clearly the conversation has ended, then I get billed for it. Jeremy's billing transparency is almost unheard of. I'd recommend him 10 times out of 10 for any SaaS company.
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10 Apr, 2020 by Kenan rappuchi
Jeremy is probably the most responsive and efficient business attorney I've ever worked with. Possibly beyond law, to include all professional services consultants or firms I've worked with over 3 plus decades.
What I really appreciated is that he stayed on point and didn't ask a bunch of unrelated questions, or start the 'well have you thought about this' conversation - which most attorneys, experts or consultants try to pull to lure in a potential client on fear of unknowns and justify more billable time for some unnecessary advice or service that wasn't asked for.
If you need an attorney with Jeremy's area of expertise, run, don't walk to Jeremy. Your business will be better off for it.
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27 Oct, 2022 by Brent rayfield
Kareen and his team are the real deal. Their extensive knowledge of law helped us in our real estate transaction. We cant thank them enough.
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29 Apr, 2022 by Nicholas cornwell
14 Jan, 2020 by Sarah simmons
08 Jul, 2024 by Paul whinnery
13 Jan, 2025 by Clement pantalone
Asia Scott is an amazing personality and personal injury attorney.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Elliott richter
Hopefully I'm never involved in a serious car accident, but if I am, I know I'm giving Austin Lopez a call. Rest assured he'll make sure you and your case are treated with the care it deserves. Highly recommend!
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10 Jan, 2025 by Clete donovan
Highly recommend anyone injured or in need of a personal injury attorney to reach out to Austin Lopez at this law firm. He’s knowledgeable, down to earth, and will guide you every step of the way!
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09 Jan, 2025 by Kyle sullivan
They didn't take the time to actually read my email, just flat out sent me a cookie cutter rejection. Which really shows their "commitment". Not worth your time.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Debbie graham
Although Michelle Cheng was always professional and responsive, I felt she could have been a lot more aggressive with our case. I feel as though she settled and gave advice based on prior cases and scenarios. Our doctor had admitted his guilt, so had she been more demanding and aggressive, we could have possibly received more.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Rushik tank
We did get in touch with few attorneys via phone call, but Mr. Robson stood out and was our favorite. We directly talked with him on the phone for more than 30mins and were ready to sign with him. The next day we met with him. Even though we didn’t mutually agree and sign, Mr.Robson spent almost 2 hours with us and provided valuable advice to help us with the case. This tells me a lot about him as a person and how helpful he would be if we were to sign with him. I 100% recommend him to everybody.
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09 Jan, 2025 by Kyle sullivan
They didn't take the time to actually read my email, just flat out sent me a cookie cutter rejection. Which really shows their "commitment". Not worth your time.
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06 Jan, 2025 by Debbie graham
Although Michelle Cheng was always professional and responsive, I felt she could have been a lot more aggressive with our case. I feel as though she settled and gave advice based on prior cases and scenarios. Our doctor had admitted his guilt, so had she been more demanding and aggressive, we could have possibly received more.
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06 Dec, 2024 by Rushik tank
We did get in touch with few attorneys via phone call, but Mr. Robson stood out and was our favorite. We directly talked with him on the phone for more than 30mins and were ready to sign with him. The next day we met with him. Even though we didn’t mutually agree and sign, Mr.Robson spent almost 2 hours with us and provided valuable advice to help us with the case. This tells me a lot about him as a person and how helpful he would be if we were to sign with him. I 100% recommend him to everybody.
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10 Jan, 2025 by Evelyn b
Keith took the time, dedication, and was able to truly understand my issue and what I am going through. His guidance will prove to be invaluable as he made suggestions no one else considered or offered, which is truly appreciated. He sees the big picture. Thank you!
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25 Oct, 2024 by El pablo
I truly recommend this law office, the amount of hospitality and information they provide are above and beyond . They empathize with their clients as opposed to having sympathy, 5 starts for sure !!
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03 Oct, 2024 by Stephanie rhemann
Kim and Keith are a remarkable team. Their dedication, compassion, and expertise helped me navigate a trying time with ease. I am deeply grateful for their assistance and the top-notch service of this law firm.
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09 Feb, 2025 by Barry haynie
Kyle Robbins and Anna White were very helpful throufhout the steessful probate process. Their staff updated me throughout and kept me informed. I couldn't recommend Robbins Estate law any higher.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Stacy gomez
We worked with Robbins Estate, specifically with Lorenza Cigarroa, who was extremely thorough and knowledgeable and took the time to answer all our questions. We appreciate her extensive experience, curiosity, and guidance in the process.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Joshua welch
Our experience with Mr. Strickland for estate planning was first-rate. 10/10 recommend, A++
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23 Jan, 2025 by Tim morris
29 Oct, 2024 by Ismael cantu
I reached out to this firm for representation...what a outstanding group of professionals. Responded immediately, professionally, caring and with a purpose. What a great group of people.
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20 Sep, 2024 by Melanie jaco
I had a consultation with Mr.Shannon, he was fantastic. He was kind, patient, and genuinely listened to everything I had to say. It was clear that he truly cares about his clients. He is sharp, attentive, and on point. I appreciated his attentiveness and the guidance he shared during our consultation.
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24 Nov, 2024 by Mike kimo pfeifle
Called me back immediately. Resolved my traffic case and had it dismissed. Was at my side the whole way. Will use her for my estate planning also.
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07 Nov, 2024 by Javi b
Really appreciate the work that David and team put into my case. Being my first offense, I was completely scared of all the unknown. But both David and Karina took the time to ensure me that they had my best interests at heart throughout the entire process. Time, attention, and detail provided by this team is 100+.
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04 Nov, 2024 by Iván díaz
Excelente servicio de chamber,dan seguimiento paso a paso en tu caso,te explican a detalle el proceso de tu caso,disponibilidad de su tiempo y muy amables
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08 Feb, 2024 by Jason ramon-duque
08 Feb, 2024 by Armandina valdez
Quick, efficient, and professional.
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08 Feb, 2024 by Slayter waters
Jesse has helped me on more than one occasion. He was very professional, organized and communicative at all times. I highly recommend him.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Revan
Russel Frost is the Lawyer that took me seriously when no one else would. My case was regarding personal property of a lower value amount that caused other lawyers to scoff at it, because it wasn't high dollar enough for them to care. Additionally, I was located in another State while the person I intended to sue was in Texas. Which is why I needed a lawyer based in Texas to bring my issue forward.
I had sent my property out of state to a specialist to be repaired, since local services weren't up to the task. My property was being withheld and not being returned to me after paying for the repair and diagnostic services. The person holding my property had constantly ignored any text messages, emails and phone calls I sent for over two months and I finally decided to go for legal action.
I paid for a consultation and presented my issue and evidence.
Literally while on the phone, Mr.Frost immediately got to work drafting demand letters while we talked, and had them sent to the other party same day. Guess what, I got my stuff back within days of them being made aware of the letter.
I was prepared to go the distance and take my issue all the way through civil court, we had intended to present additional claims, and monetary compensation on top of it, but thankfully we were able to resolve my issue peacefully, and avoid the slugfest that is the legal system.
I can't recommend Mr.Frost and his team enough, he stuck up for me when no one else would, his rates for consultation and the whole ordeal were absolutely affordable, and had great attention to detail and communication. If you need legal help, please consider him to fight for you. He and his team will make you proud!
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30 Sep, 2024 by Chandri bacon
"pay me upfront" for a case im not sure if i can handle"
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01 May, 2024 by Don houdyshell
I enthusiastically recommend the Law Office of Russell Frost. They proved to be fast, friendly, and efficient. I needed help securing a rather large sum of money that was due me and Russell Frost was able to resolve this for me 100% to my satisfaction. You can’t ask for more than that.
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18 Oct, 2024 by Derex
objection!
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11 Oct, 2023 by Charles edward andrew lincoln iv
10 Jun, 2023 by B d
Nice
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23 May, 2017 by Joe
William Peckham has represented our business for over 30 years. He is always there when we need him. His advice, counsel, and positive action have been invaluable for our family. I can highly recommend Bill Peckham to get the job done.
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22 May, 2017 by Jim
I have had the great pleasure of employing Mr. Bill Peckham as my attorney for both personal and business transactions for over 35 years. I find him professional and exceedingly thorough. His follow up is wonderful as I am sometimes lax on getting things done. He is a positive force to the profession.
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20 May, 2017 by Mike
Bill Peckham has been our corporate attorney since 1987. He is a powerful attorney and has been extremely successful for us. He is an intricate part of our businesses. We trust Bill as our legal council and adhere to all his advice. He is very aggressive and an extremely knowledgable corporate attorney. I highly recommend Bill for all your legal issues. He is a Bulldog and the best attorney in Austin, TX.
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28 Aug, 2009 by Miranda
I greatly appreciated Erik's stable and nurturing personality during my distressfully nightmarish legal ordeal. I had a serious legal issue with a close family member involving property and children. I was able to transfer this burden to Erik and his capable staff and they guided us to a very welcome and agreeable conclusion.
I highly recommend Erik Cary.
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23 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Mr. Cary took care of my divorce in a professional manner - he explained everything to me, served my wife with papers quickly and took care of the hearing and paperwork as quickly and painlessly as he said he would. Also, his staff was helpful and answered my questions when he was not available to take my call and he called me back quickly - that's very important, as another lawyer I had never called me back until I called her multiple times.
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14 Apr, 2009 by Anonymous
Although I did not understand the direction of the case at first, Erik's plan was well thought out and he took into consideration the best possible outcome in my lawsuit. The process was long but Erik explained the details of each step as well as my options based on the responses from the opposing council and the Court.
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07 Dec, 2024 by Derrick blocker
I would recommend Evans Family Law Group to help you through the tough times of divorce!! Shara and Nichole were very helpful on getting the job done. They answered all of my questions and responded to all me emails promptly. Thank You Evans Family Law Group for helping me out!!!!!
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26 Nov, 2024 by James nowotny
Evans family law group provided excellent service and were very educational throughout a very difficult process that took over a decade to resolve.
Avery and Nichole made a great team and very communicative as my case approached resolution.
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10 Nov, 2024 by Angel hernandez
I hired Evans Family Law in the middle of my case, after a reset and a crappy lawyer (marble law) not doing anything at all and throwing 6k down the drain. Shara Dixon came in like rambo and dominated the half ass stuff done by my first lawyer. She came in ready to fight and she got me my son!
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11 Jul, 2024 by Matt trevena
I sought legal counsel for a business client in a landlord/tenant dispute and Richards Rodriguez & Skeith were responsive and knowledgeable.
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20 Dec, 2023 by Chase hamilton
20 Dec, 2023 by David perl
15 Jul, 2024 by Liset cruz
Brindaran trabajo
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07 Apr, 2021 by A d a
No help
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11 Oct, 2024 by Rebearth productions
It took me awhile in contemplation on whether or not I should write this review but seeing others' writing, I see that I owe it to myself and others to speak on Mr. Brian Bernard. I was first introduced to him by a good friend of mine who was actually upset with him that he had spent $500 on his daughter's behalf and received no service. He said he was upset with Mr. Bernard for not doing anything and he, his daughter, and his daughter's mother had reached out to him several times and Mr. Bernard became upset. They parted ways but I decided to give him a chance because I felt that any grievance over $500 is DEPLORABLE because I am a pre-law student and I understand that attorneys charge anywhere from $250 to $1000 an hour for their time.
I talked this attorney for the first time last October and he was the cheapest attorney of them all. When I talked to him again this year, the price went up because I needed him to travel I was still good with it because it was 5k and it was cheap for what I needed him to do. He hastened me to get the money and said if you don't hurry, your parental rights will be terminated. Within two months, I had half of his money and a brand new apartment. I gave him the money, knowing he would not do any work without all of it. I made a good faith payment was what I called it. The first time I had ever heard him "bubbly", he called me and appointed me his paralegal. He said he would begin "making a file".
For the next month, he had me collecting my own documents. The paralegal did nothing but sort them in an app. I accepted that because he didn't have to start at all ... I tried to get a loan for the rest of his money and got denied. The loan company stated I had "filed bankruptcy". A couple Fridays ago, I told Bernard how badly I wanted to get him his money but that it appeared that someone had filed bankruptcy in my name and that would prohibit me. I asked him to perform a nationwide search and told him I would pay him for his time. He obliged mentioning nothing of payment. He said he would do it the following Monday
Monday morning rolled around and I woke up to a text, an email, and an app notification from his paralegal, demanding the rest of his money. I texted Bernard about it and he didn't respond. The week went by and I called his assistant to see what was up. I texted her on our group chat and also called his paralegal to no avail. Suddenly his assistant called me and apologized, stating that it was all a misunderstanding and the alerts take place every 2 weeks. She said Bernard could do my search for $750 as it would allow him 3 hours. He has 25 years of legal experience and I knew the search only takes minutes even for a beginner. It was a PRICE GAUGE. She assured me no more alerts would be made and we hung up.
Funny thing is, I had never gotten the alerts in the MONTH I had worked with him. Not ONE...so if they were every two weeks, they would have alerted me at least once right? Plus, who charges someone almost A GRAND to perform a search when they are having issues getting the INITIAL money they owe to GET THEIR KID BACK. I asked for a refund last Saturday and havent gotten a single text, call, or email. I paid him $2000 to be his paralegal for a month and to be presented false hope that he was on my side. What do I think? Well, I think he is money hungry and unconcerned with your personal problems. I think he located the OC in this case and used the documents I collected for him to sell me out, making me think that ALL THE SUDDEN, he was willing to work for half the money, up front. I also think he tried to sucker the money he didn't get from my friend out of me....but who am I ... Just a paralegal in training, on the Dean's List in school, and a double major in Business.
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23 Aug, 2024 by Jacqueline obaseki
Greetings to all 💝 I would like to share my experience with Attorney Brian Bernard.
I had Mr. Bernard saved in my contacts from a relative in jail that asked me to reach out to him (Brian) in June 2024. About 1 month later my son went to jail and the attorney that I initially reached out to wanted to help for the "low-low" price of $7,500 for a Class "A" misdemeanor with an initial payment of $2,500😂. I sent Brian a text message wanting to know how much should a misdemeanor charge of that nature cost. I was bracing myself for impact of his response (because I am extra broke😂) but his response pleased me. The conversation of the photo is attached💝 Brian had my son out within hours. I was relieved because as parents we want our children to do the right thing and be ok. The day was nearing for me to fly out of town for work, so I was pleased and burden lifted.
Moving forward to August 2024, my Aunt called me upset and stated her son went to jail and it would cost a lot of money for the bail bonds to get him released. I instantly said "Aunty call Brian, I am sure he can help and have him released the same day for a fair price💕 " She said text me his info and I will call him (In her still hurt tone). After my aunty called Brian, she called back telling me how excited she was and I could hear it in her soul💕 Then she told me some fun facts about Brian's career from their in person meet (I paid through CashApp😊 so we did not meet in person). My aunty kept thanking me. I said Aunty we Thank God for Mr. Brian Bernard.
Names to me are very important because what we are called is what we are as well as what we respond to. For example My name is Jacqueline which means "May God Protect Her" and He definitely has throughout my whole entire life💝
Brian means: High, Noble, Honor and dignity
Bernard means: Brave, Hardy and strong
Now look at this fair man walk in his purpose according to who and what he is called.💗💖💝💓
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16 Aug, 2024 by Charlie grandville
He is a great Lawyer and he handles court cases with such ease. He is definitely a current recommendation and a future recommendation.
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27 May, 2024 by Kelly jones
International "legal giant" Holland Knight has continuously refused to provide my legal files while abetting Alex "Sandy Hook" Jones's ongoing conspiracy with their former law partner Eric Taube whom they continued to advertise as a "trusted advisor" while having transcripts of Taube's inconsistent sworn statements/perjury in the hearing on my Motion to Disqualify in in U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Tex. W. D. Bank. 20-10118) when he appeared directly adverse to my interests (while concurrently representing me in ravis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-07-000618), which he directly countermanded when impeached in Travis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-18-001610, admitting that he did represent me. This fraud is not just bad for me, but it involves property that Taube conspiratorially formed in breaches of duty to me and to the entities he advised me to form, one of which he represented (without waiver or disclosure of conflict of interest (Free Speech Systems, LLC)) with Alex Jones, David Jones, and Carol Jones, whose tortious interference, fiduciary breaches, fraudulent transfers and fraud have been ongoing for over ten years. Holland Knight is based in the UK and its intentional bad acts of its and its Deputy Counsel's actual knowledge are contributory to alleged ongoing bankruptcy fraud in Tex. S. D. Bank. 22-33543. Contact me, FBI, DOJ, - Kelly Morales P/K/A Kelly Jones. I would not say these things about a massive international law firm if I could not prove it (very easily). Texas AG, Holland Knight has abetted the alleged falsification of government documents of its knowledge and fraud on the US Bankruptcy Court. Please contact me and please pursue all necessary temporary and permanent iinjunctive relieve to protect Texans from Holland Knight. The property that has been continuously defrauded of me and of the entities in which I hold interest has constituted hundreds of millions of dollars made without authority by copyright and trademark infringement, at best (and alleged copyright counterfeit, among other things.)
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25 Aug, 2023 by Gio guzman
This Attorney Neil Meinzer that works at this firm . Is a complete jerk. And unprofessional. He laughed in my face after driving three times to his office from Houston. To collect a settlement check . He abused his power as attorney and humiliated me . I will be filing a complaint with the bar . I don’t recommend this firm.
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06 Mar, 2018 by Joao
Felt overwhelmed about speaking with this attorney. I needed some legal and being from South America, it was very nerve racking trying to explain my situation to this woman. I felt ignored and patronized as though I was a child. I did not feel I could trust this persons ability in understanding and relaying my situation in court.
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27 May, 2024 by Kelly jones
International "legal giant" Holland Knight has continuously refused to provide my legal files while abetting Alex "Sandy Hook" Jones's ongoing conspiracy with their former law partner Eric Taube whom they continued to advertise as a "trusted advisor" while having transcripts of Taube's inconsistent sworn statements/perjury in the hearing on my Motion to Disqualify in in U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Tex. W. D. Bank. 20-10118) when he appeared directly adverse to my interests (while concurrently representing me in ravis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-07-000618), which he directly countermanded when impeached in Travis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-18-001610, admitting that he did represent me. This fraud is not just bad for me, but it involves property that Taube conspiratorially formed in breaches of duty to me and to the entities he advised me to form, one of which he represented (without waiver or disclosure of conflict of interest (Free Speech Systems, LLC)) with Alex Jones, David Jones, and Carol Jones, whose tortious interference, fiduciary breaches, fraudulent transfers and fraud have been ongoing for over ten years. Holland Knight is based in the UK and its intentional bad acts of its and its Deputy Counsel's actual knowledge are contributory to alleged ongoing bankruptcy fraud in Tex. S. D. Bank. 22-33543. Contact me, FBI, DOJ, - Kelly Morales P/K/A Kelly Jones. I would not say these things about a massive international law firm if I could not prove it (very easily). Texas AG, Holland Knight has abetted the alleged falsification of government documents of its knowledge and fraud on the US Bankruptcy Court. Please contact me and please pursue all necessary temporary and permanent iinjunctive relieve to protect Texans from Holland Knight. The property that has been continuously defrauded of me and of the entities in which I hold interest has constituted hundreds of millions of dollars made without authority by copyright and trademark infringement, at best (and alleged copyright counterfeit, among other things.)
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25 Aug, 2023 by Gio guzman
This Attorney Neil Meinzer that works at this firm . Is a complete jerk. And unprofessional. He laughed in my face after driving three times to his office from Houston. To collect a settlement check . He abused his power as attorney and humiliated me . I will be filing a complaint with the bar . I don’t recommend this firm.
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Questions? We have answers
What a Debt Collection Lawyer Can Do for You
A debt collection lawyer helps individuals and businesses navigate legal matters related to debt collection. Whether you’re a creditor seeking to recover unpaid debts or a debtor facing aggressive collection actions, a debt collection lawyer can provide valuable assistance. These lawyers help creditors pursue legal action to collect overdue debts and ensure compliance with debt collection laws. On the debtor’s side, they help defend against unlawful collection practices, negotiate repayment plans, or file for bankruptcy if necessary.
If you’re dealing with a debt collection issue, a lawyer can ensure your rights are protected and work toward a resolution that aligns with your financial or business needs.
When Should I Hire a Debt Collection Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a debt collection lawyer if you are facing any of the following situations:
-
For Creditors:
- Unpaid debts: If you’re a creditor (such as a business or individual) with unpaid invoices, loans, or accounts receivable, a lawyer can help you pursue legal action to recover the debt.
- Debtor refuses to pay: When a debtor is unwilling or unable to make payments, a lawyer can assist with filing lawsuits, securing judgments, and enforcing those judgments to collect the debt.
- Negotiating repayment plans: If you’re willing to work with a debtor to arrange a payment plan, a lawyer can negotiate and draft a legally enforceable agreement.
- Legal representation in court: If a debtor disputes the debt or countersues, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure your legal interests are protected.
- Securing liens or garnishments: A lawyer can help you secure liens on a debtor’s property or garnishments on their wages to recover the owed debt.
-
For Debtors:
- Facing debt collection lawsuits: If you’ve been sued by a creditor or collection agency, a lawyer can represent you in court and help you defend against the claim or negotiate a settlement.
- Debt collection harassment: If creditors or debt collection agencies are harassing you or violating your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), a lawyer can help stop the harassment and potentially sue for damages.
- Negotiating debt settlements: If you owe a significant amount of money but want to avoid bankruptcy, a lawyer can negotiate with creditors to reduce the total amount owed or set up a payment plan.
- Disputing a debt: If you believe a debt is incorrect or have been wrongfully targeted by debt collectors, a lawyer can help you dispute the claim and provide evidence to resolve the matter.
- Bankruptcy options: If your debts are overwhelming and you’re unable to repay them, a debt collection lawyer can help you explore bankruptcy as an option for debt relief.
Hiring a lawyer early in the process can help you protect your financial interests and avoid escalating legal issues.
What Does a Debt Collection Lawyer Do?
A debt collection lawyer provides a variety of services depending on whether they are representing the creditor or the debtor. Their responsibilities often include:
-
For Creditors:
- Filing lawsuits: A lawyer can file a lawsuit against a debtor who has failed to pay what they owe. This includes preparing and submitting legal documents, representing you in court, and pursuing judgments.
- Negotiating settlements: If the debtor is willing to settle, the lawyer can negotiate a payment arrangement or reduced settlement that ensures you recover some or all of the debt.
- Securing judgments and enforcement: After obtaining a court judgment, a lawyer can help enforce it through methods like wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens.
- Reviewing contracts and agreements: A lawyer can review your contracts and lending agreements to ensure that they comply with the law and are enforceable if a debtor defaults.
-
For Debtors:
- Defending against debt collection lawsuits: If you’re being sued by a creditor, a lawyer can challenge the lawsuit, dispute the debt’s validity, or negotiate a more favorable settlement.
- Stopping harassment: If debt collectors are using unlawful practices to collect a debt (such as threatening you or contacting you excessively), a lawyer can intervene and protect your rights.
- Negotiating debt relief: A lawyer can negotiate with creditors to reduce the total amount of debt you owe or develop a manageable payment plan that suits your financial situation.
- Disputing inaccurate debts: If a debt is not valid, a lawyer can help you gather evidence to dispute the claim and prevent further collection actions.
- Filing for bankruptcy: If your debts are overwhelming, a lawyer can advise you on whether filing for bankruptcy is the best option and help you through the process.
How Are Debt Collection Lawyers Paid?
Debt collection lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways depending on the complexity of the case and whether they represent a creditor or debtor. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many debt collection lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the case’s complexity. Hourly fees are common when the lawyer is representing either party in litigation or negotiation.
- Contingency fee: For creditors, some lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover the debt. Their fee is typically a percentage of the recovered amount, usually ranging from 20% to 40%.
- Flat fee: For specific services, such as reviewing a contract, drafting a demand letter, or defending a straightforward debt collection lawsuit, a lawyer may charge a flat fee.
- Retainer: For larger or ongoing cases, a lawyer may require a retainer fee ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the expected duration.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation and understand the total cost of their services before proceeding with your case.
How Much Does a Debt Collection Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a debt collection lawyer depends on whether you are a creditor or debtor, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Most debt collection lawyers charge between $150 and $500 per hour. Complex cases involving litigation or large amounts of money may result in higher legal fees.
- Contingency fees: If the lawyer works on a contingency basis, they typically charge between 20% and 40% of the recovered amount. For example, if you recover $10,000 and the contingency fee is 30%, the lawyer would take $3,000.
- Flat fees: For simpler services like drafting a demand letter or responding to a debt collection lawsuit, flat fees may range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the work required.
- Retainers: For larger or ongoing cases, a lawyer may require a retainer fee ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the expected duration.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to avoid surprises and ensure that the services fit your budget.
Top Questions to Ask a Debt Collection Lawyer
Before hiring a debt collection lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with debt collection cases?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether you’re a creditor or debtor. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, on a contingency fee basis, or a flat fee, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Debt collection cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last, from filing the claim to recovering the debt or resolving the dispute. -
What are my legal rights?
Ask the lawyer to explain your rights as a creditor or debtor, including protections under laws like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Debt Collection Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable debt collection lawyer, take the following 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 debt collection experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in debt collection 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 debt collection cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on debt collection matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for certifications or memberships in organizations like the National Creditors Bar Association (NCBA) or other relevant associations that focus on debt collection law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a debt collection lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
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For Creditors:
- List of outstanding debts: Bring a detailed list of the debts owed to you or your business, including invoices, contracts, or other supporting documentation.
- Previous communication with the debtor: Provide copies of any emails, letters, or phone call logs showing attempts to collect the debt.
- Contracts or agreements: Bring any contracts or agreements related to the debt, as they may be critical in proving your case.
- Judgment information (if applicable): If you’ve already obtained a court judgment against the debtor, bring the judgment documents and any enforcement attempts.
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For Debtors:
- Debt collection letters or notices: Bring any correspondence from creditors or collection agencies, including demand letters and collection notices.
- Payment records: Provide proof of any payments made toward the debt, including receipts, canceled checks, or bank statements.
- Debt validation or dispute documentation: If you’ve disputed the debt or requested validation, bring copies of the dispute letters and the creditor’s response.
- Legal summons or lawsuit documentation: If you’re facing a lawsuit, bring the court summons, complaint, and any legal documents related to the case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best legal advice tailored to your needs.
