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13 Aug, 2015 by A. martinez
I was injured in a bad accident. I called the law offices, and was helped immensely. Mr. Moret referred me to get treatments with a doctor, get MRI's of my back. He was able to secure a great settlement through arbitration. I would highly recommend his office to anyone
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10 Apr, 2011 by Scared consumer
This attorneys office keeps harrassing me over advertising that never ran I was the victim of green mag menus to go and National Advertising Center they breached the contract and now the law office of Gilbert Moret calls me and threatens me often, I have tried to contact Mr Moret personally and he will not return my calls or letters.
I would stay away from his office
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14 Jan, 2011 by John
Seek the help of Gilbert A. Moret if you have been injured in an accident in West Covina. They are very knowledgeable and professional! I highly recommend them to anyone who needs goor lawyer!
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09 Feb, 2024 by Anonymous
There is a reason an attorney of this type markets himself as a "Christian". He feeds off his need for power/narcissistic fuel and takes advantage those who he sees as beneath him. After years of dedication to Tom Brownfield (previously known as Smart Law under Dean Smart), my family member was not paid for over 6 months of work. Not only have both Tom and his wife, Terrie, refused to pay my family member, but they adamantly deny that they have any wrongdoing of forcing an employee to wait over a year to be paid for 6 months of office work. Tom continues to travel out of state, including Nevada, and spend money on his new vehicles. All the while, my family member is unable to physically track down Tom to seek any compensation because he only lists his office address and is working from other states, including Nevada. Tom Brownfield is not fit to be a bankruptcy attorney for the "Christian" community, let alone anyone who is trusting, naive, and kind-hearted. Tom has made the statement to my family member that he has been "short on funds" for well over two years. How is a 'successful' OC attorney short on funds, anyhow? I will only remove or update this review after Tom has fully reimbursed my family member. Until then, Tom, you know what you need to do to prevent this from escalating to the State Bar of CA.
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03 Jan, 2020 by Christal skilling
23 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Please be more personable. Your posts are public. She will respond, which is appreciated, but does no substance in her responses and then gets upset when flaws are pointed out, that she could easily work on instead of berating me that she offered a free low-value response. Responding for free gives you leads. Learn to be kind and help others. They will probably be more likely to seek you out effortlessly.
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17 Feb, 2023 by Girlie
I contacted the legal firm last minute and they were by far, the friendliest. I very much appreciate the knowledge and support I received.
Attorney Yelena took on, an extremely difficult case. She worked tirelessly to make sure that the truth was told and presented with utmost care and professionalism.
Although we faced challenges, she has stood by and guided me through the entire lengthy process. She gave all the time and attention that was needed to be successful.
I would like to thank Attorney Yelena and her team for all the hard work and for handling my case with such expertise, and most importantly, for making the entire process easy!
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01 Apr, 2022 by Alexander
This Attorney is a victim of an angry questioner that refused to identify themselves. As an attorney, this smacks of falsity.
Ms. Gurevich is a fine Attorney that faced the music and has done right by her license. Do not be dissuaded by the one poor review, of a person that didn't identify themselves or hire her.
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30 Mar, 2024 by Kathy boland
Adrian McKay refused to respond to my emails and she refused to provide me with a fee estimate in spite if multiple requests.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Kelley d. russ
It's an amazing office, great people to work with, and was a phenomenal experience for me. If you're looking for great service from a law firm, this would be a great choice.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Marcelo lopes
30 Mar, 2024 by Kathy boland
Adrian McKay refused to respond to my emails and she refused to provide me with a fee estimate in spite if multiple requests.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Kelley d. russ
It's an amazing office, great people to work with, and was a phenomenal experience for me. If you're looking for great service from a law firm, this would be a great choice.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Marcelo lopes
11 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
I have known Kathy Lombard for more than six years and I have the highest regard for her both personally and professionally. She assisted my friend and I in starting a theatrical company and was encouraging and helpful throughout the process. In fact she introduced us to a regional theater artistic director who hired us for our first (and to date only) production. I am eternally grateful to Kathy Lombard for her industry experience, expert advice and guidance, and would highly recommend her.
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09 Apr, 2014 by Lth
Kathy has been the lawyer for both my husband's entertainment company and my production company. We have worked with her for over 10 years. She has advised us on all kinds of contract issues and has even stepped outside the entertainment realm to help us complete our estate planning. She is the most honorable/law abiding person I have ever met. I highly recommend her!
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05 Apr, 2014 by Anonymous
Ms. Lombard made fundamental contractual errors in representing me and was dismissive regarding my concerns. I am displeased with her legal services and have sought counsel elsewhere.
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18 Jan, 2022 by Peter
This attorney dug his heels in and fought the Establishment. Knows his law that is for sure. He made the defendant's corporate attorneys look like complete amateurs. A good attorney who helped get my life back on track so very indebted to this attorney. Nice guy too.
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22 Nov, 2012 by Xavier
Fantastic attorney that helped me win much more that I imagined.
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10 Nov, 2011 by Anonymous
THIS LAWYER PROMISED ME THAT I COULD "BEAT THE COLLECTION AGENCY" I WAS DEALING WITH. INSTEAD, THEY SUED ME & IT COST ME A LOT MORE MONEY THANKS TO THIS GOLDSTEIN "BOTTOM FISHER"
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11 Jul, 2023 by Anonymous
He was my collection attorney who could not renew --fill out a simple form to renew my judgment.
That judgment is gone/destroyed.
It can not be collected.
Also, I was never told it was destroyed. After 3 years. I found
out on my own.
He also had a good address to collect money and never used that address to collect.
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20 Aug, 2014 by Jeremy
I've had the privilege of knowing and working with Alex for several years. I've always found him to be very knowledgeable and responsive and he's done excellent work in the collections arena. I'd recommend him to anyone needing creditors rights and collection work handled.
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06 Feb, 2019 by Dick
My young daughter was mistreated at a local hospital and she asked for my help in locating an attorney to represent her in an alleged malpractice lawsuit again the hospital and its two surgeons. After a lot of searching, we opted to retain Mr. Borison who appeared to be a very competent attorney. He agreed to take my daughter's case, and she formally retained his services. He appeared to be very professional and compassionate about my daughter's mistreatment. After gathering the medical reports and other pertinent facts, he issued a professionally written demand letter to the hospital and doctors and told us that he would have to wait for their response. After several months of no activity, he called my daughter and told her that he did not realize that CA had a two year statute of limitations for filing a medical malpractice action in the Superior Court. Further, he told her that because of not filing the action timely, that she would not be legally able to pursue further recourse against the hospital or the two surgeons. He offered no compensation or other relief to my daughter, other than to say he was sorry. I wrote Mr. Borison asking him to consider compensating her for his oversight. He never responded. We are consulting with other attorneys concerning other options now to get my daughter the compensation she so deserves for almost losing her life (according to her family doctor) at the hands of the hospital and doctors. Not understanding the statute of limitations appears to be a serious oversight. I am a licensed (by the United States Treasury) enrolled agent representing clients before tax agencies nationally and internationally. Being intimately familiar with statutes of limitation are an integral aspect of my profession. It was reasonable for my daughter and I to expect the same of Mr. Borison. Unfortunately, we were wrong in believing this. My daughter and I have spoken with other attorneys who have confirmed the statute of limitations, and affirmed that my daughter has no legal grounds to pursue recourse against the hospital or the doctors.
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05 Nov, 2010 by Alphonso
I have worked with a number of Lawyers over the years as a Corporate Executive. I was absolutely amazed by Mr.Borisons’ compassion and professionalism. He’s been extremely responsive to our legal matter and has gone beyond the call of duty. We feel like we found a diamond in ruff, he is a winner and highly competent. I look forward to the resolution of our case.
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01 Oct, 2024 by Thomas
I was referred to Bruce via the Orange County California State Bar Association.
I came to Bruce in the late afternoon with a rushed legal matter that had a next day deadline to respond.
Bruce not only took the time to listen to my prospective case with me being rushed & emotional , he also narrowed down the precise actions we needed to take and laid out a winning game plan.
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16 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy is something else. Called him for help. He didn’t want to hear it. Unwilling to explain the process to right a transaction that had gone sideways. Complete tool.
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30 May, 2019 by Juan
Excellent attorney. He helped with bankcrucy. Now, I own nothing and moving forward
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30 Mar, 2024 by Kathy boland
Adrian McKay refused to respond to my emails and she refused to provide me with a fee estimate in spite if multiple requests.
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29 Oct, 2023 by Kelley d. russ
It's an amazing office, great people to work with, and was a phenomenal experience for me. If you're looking for great service from a law firm, this would be a great choice.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Marcelo lopes
16 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
I wrote the previous review out of anger. Jim is truly a stand up guy. I regret my post.
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06 Feb, 2021 by Anonymous
We thought we would require an attorney for a trust. He asked us for $2,200 to review the documents. We paid him, then a month goes by and we get a bill for an extra $750, he marked for charges such as emailing client and talking to client as being extra costs. The day we needed him for representation (a Friday), he said that he would be out of office Thursday evening til the following week.
I don't recommend!
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12 Jul, 2024 by G gigi
26 Mar, 2024 by Al charvel
Do not hire this lawyer, this guy Sergio is nothing but a thief and a crook he will take your money and run and not represent you right! Do you research and go somewhere else??
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29 Feb, 2024 by Greysy
First of all front office is rude and they never call back
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11 Jul, 2022 by Rose merree
Update
Better Business Bureau complaint against Severson & Werson due to Joel C Spann lying went UNANSWERED. Stay away from this law firm.
It has no problem with its attorneys committing deformation of character. 28 U.S.Code 4101.
Joel C Spann helped Bank of America commit
18 U.S.Code 371.
Joel C Spann from Severson & Werson is lying to everyone to protect Bank of America.
In 2016 Bank of America stole from the United States & lied to judges faces to cover that up.
I told the 2016 White House. It sent everything to the CFPB. Cases were opened & investigations were started.
When the 2017 CFPB took everything over, it closed all the cases.
I sent the full details to the Biden Harris administration. That resulted in the FTC filling a complaint against the CFPB with the CFPB.
I also forwarded the communications Joel C Spann
sent to me to the CIA.
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08 Nov, 2019 by Another face
#rachet
Buried my parents this past weekend. I needed $475 to finish paying for the arrangements. On Friday I got an Arbitration Award against this bank. They have 30 days to pay the award. Checked with a lender to sell the award so i can settle up on the funeral cost and need their attorney to simply verify the facts and get the info for the eventual funds transfer. Their lawyers (#Severson&Werson) silently said FY! Wait had this bank not taken my money in the first place I wouldnt need them now. So i cant even get a loan to pay for the burial?
Just plain Rachetness! There are evil people in the world.
The attorney LASZLO LADI could care less about anything or anyone outside himself. Thank you Jesus for social media!
#WellsFargoBank
Take all the time you need. Hope you decide to appeal!
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07 Jun, 2019 by Rra construction
Our construction company, RRA Construction, had to sue a non-paying client and Thomas came as a referral from another attorney for our case. If you are going through or have gone through a case, then you would know how imperative it is to be armed with a winning attorney. Even though we were stressed out of our minds, Thomas reassured us. He helped keep us calm throughout the process. RRA Construction was impressed with Thomas's extensive knowledge and in utilizing his services, we have become a better company in the end. We have Thomas to thank for helping us with our case.
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15 Jul, 2019 by Raven chaplin
Alison went the extra mile with my case and helped me and my husband have a positive outcome. She was honest, up front, and reasonably priced. I highly recommend her to anyone who wants a caring, thoughtful, and responsive attorney.
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11 Jun, 2017 by Siroj salamov
27 Aug, 2022 by Sami ansari
I hired Kimberly Mayhew to handle my trust that was unethically changed by my stepmother. She made it seem like we had a good case at first but after charging us an obscene amount of money for going over less than 50 pages of docs, she told us we didn’t have a solid case. She then had the audacity to charge us for our free consultation. When I asked her to explain why, she never responded. Definitely wouldn’t recommend hiring this bottom feeder.
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29 Jan, 2020 by K coronado
09 May, 2017 by Frank creede
Handled my father's trust with speed and accuracy during a difficult time. The best!
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12 Mar, 2024 by Heung kim
22 Aug, 2023 by Kreyer family trust
This man is a horrible lawyer, as far as I’m concerned he is a criminal, and a bully - he billed my family over $80,000 and didn’t fight to present crucial evidence when it came down to the wire..
He is a liar, a megalomaniac, a horrible person, and I would absolutely NOT recommend him unless your willing to waste tens of thousands of dollars to listen to him lecture and insult you while telling you crucial evidence is worthless. He abandoned me twice during hearings he promised to appear for, as he said he would not leave me out to dry - yet abandoned me day of the trials/hearings and I lost horribly due to his malpractice and misrepresentation of his skill set
I went in on my own for trial and was ten times more effective than he was in all three years of his representation combined!
I will gladly share more information with anyone considering hiring Wallace. Unlike him, I’m not scared to present it. He has threatened to sue me for defamation when he knows he’s failed me as an attorney - the only thing he did well was a deposition - which Yorker a ton of evidence he never presented.
This man is a joke and a hot head - do not waste your money or energy depending on him to do the honest Abe ethical thing.
Feel free to message me for further detail and evidence.
I’m reporting him to the bar and trying to recover the money wasted on this man’s ego.
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12 Mar, 2024 by Heung kim
22 Aug, 2023 by Kreyer family trust
This man is a horrible lawyer, as far as I’m concerned he is a criminal, and a bully - he billed my family over $80,000 and didn’t fight to present crucial evidence when it came down to the wire..
He is a liar, a megalomaniac, a horrible person, and I would absolutely NOT recommend him unless your willing to waste tens of thousands of dollars to listen to him lecture and insult you while telling you crucial evidence is worthless. He abandoned me twice during hearings he promised to appear for, as he said he would not leave me out to dry - yet abandoned me day of the trials/hearings and I lost horribly due to his malpractice and misrepresentation of his skill set
I went in on my own for trial and was ten times more effective than he was in all three years of his representation combined!
I will gladly share more information with anyone considering hiring Wallace. Unlike him, I’m not scared to present it. He has threatened to sue me for defamation when he knows he’s failed me as an attorney - the only thing he did well was a deposition - which Yorker a ton of evidence he never presented.
This man is a joke and a hot head - do not waste your money or energy depending on him to do the honest Abe ethical thing.
Feel free to message me for further detail and evidence.
I’m reporting him to the bar and trying to recover the money wasted on this man’s ego.
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13 Oct, 2024 by Rachelle smith
04 Sep, 2024 by Jorge martínez
Nunca abren no se para que es publico si no abren y aveces lis necesita la gente pero nunca ayudan por que siempre esta cerrado no valen madre
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05 Aug, 2024 by T m
10 Mar, 2015 by Jaimie
I retained Matthew J. Webb to represent my company as a creditor in a bankruptcy case. It was a slam dunk case, yet he still filed the wrong documents, missed the statute of limitations and almost got my company and I sanctioned. I had to hire a new attorney who could not fix Matt's mistakes. As a result my company lost over $10,000.
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11 Mar, 2014 by David
Matt took us all the way to trial and won. Many times my family wondered whether the painful litigation, lasting several years, was worth the effort. This process is full of grief. In our instance, the defendant was held in contempt by the court for refusing to appear, show cause or produce records. Our litigation involved fraud by concealment in a commercial real estate transaction & a substantial amount of money - $100's of thousands of dollars. In the 1st instance, the court charged the defendant w/ contempt and fined him $50. $50 bucks ! That's less than a parking ticket. I think the 2nd contempt of court penalty was $75 bucks. The 3rd was a few hundred dollars. How the defendant could thumb his nose at the court & get away with this was a disheartening experience. Regardless, Matt took us all the way to a bench trial where the defendant was finally judged and found guilty of fraud. Without Matt's calm & confident demeanor my family would have given up because of what we perceived as the futility of the process. Matt is a great attorney who will go to trial if necessary.
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13 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
Provides straight forward Bankruptcy services only. If you are having difficulties with your lender, this attorney can not help you. We came very close to losing our home literally by the skin of our teeth. We were so frustrated, that we sought the help of a different attorney who is well versed in Mortgage Law. Our new attorney saved our home by obtaining a very affordable loan modification that protects us for the next 24 years and he got us clean out of bankruptcy with our debts dismissed.
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26 Sep, 2024 by Henrik thørring
I had an excellent experience with Glancy Law. The attorneys were professional and handled my case with great expertise and dedication. They were always available to answer my questions and kept me informed throughout the process. I highly recommend their services.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Josh cante
06 Sep, 2024 by Rebecca miller
I highly recommend this firm - responsive and assisted me in a knowledgeable and professional manner.
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08 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
In the beginning, it was great. He was eager to help us and everything seemed to be going well until he signed us up. It took him forever to file the bankruptcy case and repeated emails/calls for status updates were ignored. It's as it was one way communication attorney... he wouldn't respond to any of our requests for updates; he only re-contacted us at the end of the process... not happy with the lack of updates and help after the case was over, but he did win the case in the end.
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05 Jan, 2025 by Amy hedges
They stole my money and never returned it. I switched banks and missed one payment to them without realizing. As soon as I found out I paid the missing payment. I declined auto pay as I only owed them one payment; they stole a second. The only way we could ensure they didn’t take more was to cancel my card as compromised. I worked with Hal who then assigned Chris as my worker. I think I still have the texts in case they ever start that class action against them that I have been waiting to join. Steer VERY far away from this company!
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03 Dec, 2024 by Ashley l.
They just pay anything for a debt that was never verified. I signed a retainer and they came after me for imaginary money.
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03 Dec, 2024 by Adriana rodriguez
I have a collection and iv tried to call and pay it numerous times and they hang up every time , then they keep calling me and leave voicemails all with someone different name every time .
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Discover the ideal lawyer
You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code
FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a 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.
