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08 Aug, 2024 by Lisa morris
05 Jul, 2024 by Richard forensky
Consulting Ethan Tidwell was an absolute godsend during my complex divorce case that involved the nightmare complexities of custody issues, finances, and an abusive/vindictive ex-spouse who falsely spread accusations about me during the divorce in an attempt to secure sole custody and leave the state with my children. And prevent my children from having a relationship with their father. Whenever Ethan was available for consultation, he was consistent in providing extremely valuable, honest, and reliable information. I was impressed in how I could ask Ethan any question and he always had an answer right away backed by extensive knowledge, objective facts, and a strong understanding of the inner workings of family court. He is also able to remember facts well and can regurgitate granular details from our conversations of months prior. This gave me confidence in speaking to him about my case. His guidance helped me in not only the legal aspects of my case but also in maintaining a positive bearing during what was one of the most emotionally-difficult periods of my life. Ethan has a good grasp of knowing what is important and what isn't, which often provided relief for me on many occasions when I was overstressed out about something. He gave solid guidance prior to my custody/fact finder evaluation. Ethan was always available in some form or fashion, which is rare with busy attorneys. If Ethan was in trial or mediation, he would always make a transparent attempt to let me know what he was doing whenever he was available to do so. And after he would reach back out, which speaks to his ability to juggle many cases at once. I have personally witnessed how he works hard around the clock. I remain more than impressed in how he continued to provide support for my case despite sometimes having to travel long distances within the state of California to represent his clients in other counties/jurisdictions as not all of his cases remain solely in Los Angeles. Additionally, Ethan is a family man and somehow has found a balance between being an active father and supporting me during my divorce. To me, this speaks to his time management, character, and credibility of being an attorney who cares despite all that life will throw at one in their personal life. I have a lot of respect for him not only as a professional, but also as a friend. Thank you Ethan!
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23 Mar, 2024 by Chris leach
Hiring Boyd law was a very wise investment that paid off big time!! I had the pleasure of working with Joshua Fabian for 10-months who was kind, caring, savvy, diligent and highly effective in securing excellent outcomes, both in discovery and at trial.
Joshua's team Ashley, Rick and Sammy were super helpful and very responsive throughout the entire process. Joshua truly cares about his clients, he plays fair and his skills inside the courtroom was a pleasure to watch.
Joshua successfully protected my family from opposing parties attorneys fees requests! I am beyond grateful for being able to have Joshua litigate my case and hiring Boyd Law was the best decision I could have made! Thank you to the entire Boyd Law family, I am extremely grateful. Chris.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Lisa morris
05 Jul, 2024 by Richard forensky
Consulting Ethan Tidwell was an absolute godsend during my complex divorce case that involved the nightmare complexities of custody issues, finances, and an abusive/vindictive ex-spouse who falsely spread accusations about me during the divorce in an attempt to secure sole custody and leave the state with my children. And prevent my children from having a relationship with their father. Whenever Ethan was available for consultation, he was consistent in providing extremely valuable, honest, and reliable information. I was impressed in how I could ask Ethan any question and he always had an answer right away backed by extensive knowledge, objective facts, and a strong understanding of the inner workings of family court. He is also able to remember facts well and can regurgitate granular details from our conversations of months prior. This gave me confidence in speaking to him about my case. His guidance helped me in not only the legal aspects of my case but also in maintaining a positive bearing during what was one of the most emotionally-difficult periods of my life. Ethan has a good grasp of knowing what is important and what isn't, which often provided relief for me on many occasions when I was overstressed out about something. He gave solid guidance prior to my custody/fact finder evaluation. Ethan was always available in some form or fashion, which is rare with busy attorneys. If Ethan was in trial or mediation, he would always make a transparent attempt to let me know what he was doing whenever he was available to do so. And after he would reach back out, which speaks to his ability to juggle many cases at once. I have personally witnessed how he works hard around the clock. I remain more than impressed in how he continued to provide support for my case despite sometimes having to travel long distances within the state of California to represent his clients in other counties/jurisdictions as not all of his cases remain solely in Los Angeles. Additionally, Ethan is a family man and somehow has found a balance between being an active father and supporting me during my divorce. To me, this speaks to his time management, character, and credibility of being an attorney who cares despite all that life will throw at one in their personal life. I have a lot of respect for him not only as a professional, but also as a friend. Thank you Ethan!
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23 Mar, 2024 by Chris leach
Hiring Boyd law was a very wise investment that paid off big time!! I had the pleasure of working with Joshua Fabian for 10-months who was kind, caring, savvy, diligent and highly effective in securing excellent outcomes, both in discovery and at trial.
Joshua's team Ashley, Rick and Sammy were super helpful and very responsive throughout the entire process. Joshua truly cares about his clients, he plays fair and his skills inside the courtroom was a pleasure to watch.
Joshua successfully protected my family from opposing parties attorneys fees requests! I am beyond grateful for being able to have Joshua litigate my case and hiring Boyd Law was the best decision I could have made! Thank you to the entire Boyd Law family, I am extremely grateful. Chris.
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08 Aug, 2024 by Lisa morris
05 Jul, 2024 by Richard forensky
Consulting Ethan Tidwell was an absolute godsend during my complex divorce case that involved the nightmare complexities of custody issues, finances, and an abusive/vindictive ex-spouse who falsely spread accusations about me during the divorce in an attempt to secure sole custody and leave the state with my children. And prevent my children from having a relationship with their father. Whenever Ethan was available for consultation, he was consistent in providing extremely valuable, honest, and reliable information. I was impressed in how I could ask Ethan any question and he always had an answer right away backed by extensive knowledge, objective facts, and a strong understanding of the inner workings of family court. He is also able to remember facts well and can regurgitate granular details from our conversations of months prior. This gave me confidence in speaking to him about my case. His guidance helped me in not only the legal aspects of my case but also in maintaining a positive bearing during what was one of the most emotionally-difficult periods of my life. Ethan has a good grasp of knowing what is important and what isn't, which often provided relief for me on many occasions when I was overstressed out about something. He gave solid guidance prior to my custody/fact finder evaluation. Ethan was always available in some form or fashion, which is rare with busy attorneys. If Ethan was in trial or mediation, he would always make a transparent attempt to let me know what he was doing whenever he was available to do so. And after he would reach back out, which speaks to his ability to juggle many cases at once. I have personally witnessed how he works hard around the clock. I remain more than impressed in how he continued to provide support for my case despite sometimes having to travel long distances within the state of California to represent his clients in other counties/jurisdictions as not all of his cases remain solely in Los Angeles. Additionally, Ethan is a family man and somehow has found a balance between being an active father and supporting me during my divorce. To me, this speaks to his time management, character, and credibility of being an attorney who cares despite all that life will throw at one in their personal life. I have a lot of respect for him not only as a professional, but also as a friend. Thank you Ethan!
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23 Mar, 2024 by Chris leach
Hiring Boyd law was a very wise investment that paid off big time!! I had the pleasure of working with Joshua Fabian for 10-months who was kind, caring, savvy, diligent and highly effective in securing excellent outcomes, both in discovery and at trial.
Joshua's team Ashley, Rick and Sammy were super helpful and very responsive throughout the entire process. Joshua truly cares about his clients, he plays fair and his skills inside the courtroom was a pleasure to watch.
Joshua successfully protected my family from opposing parties attorneys fees requests! I am beyond grateful for being able to have Joshua litigate my case and hiring Boyd Law was the best decision I could have made! Thank you to the entire Boyd Law family, I am extremely grateful. Chris.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Lisa morris
05 Jul, 2024 by Richard forensky
Consulting Ethan Tidwell was an absolute godsend during my complex divorce case that involved the nightmare complexities of custody issues, finances, and an abusive/vindictive ex-spouse who falsely spread accusations about me during the divorce in an attempt to secure sole custody and leave the state with my children. And prevent my children from having a relationship with their father. Whenever Ethan was available for consultation, he was consistent in providing extremely valuable, honest, and reliable information. I was impressed in how I could ask Ethan any question and he always had an answer right away backed by extensive knowledge, objective facts, and a strong understanding of the inner workings of family court. He is also able to remember facts well and can regurgitate granular details from our conversations of months prior. This gave me confidence in speaking to him about my case. His guidance helped me in not only the legal aspects of my case but also in maintaining a positive bearing during what was one of the most emotionally-difficult periods of my life. Ethan has a good grasp of knowing what is important and what isn't, which often provided relief for me on many occasions when I was overstressed out about something. He gave solid guidance prior to my custody/fact finder evaluation. Ethan was always available in some form or fashion, which is rare with busy attorneys. If Ethan was in trial or mediation, he would always make a transparent attempt to let me know what he was doing whenever he was available to do so. And after he would reach back out, which speaks to his ability to juggle many cases at once. I have personally witnessed how he works hard around the clock. I remain more than impressed in how he continued to provide support for my case despite sometimes having to travel long distances within the state of California to represent his clients in other counties/jurisdictions as not all of his cases remain solely in Los Angeles. Additionally, Ethan is a family man and somehow has found a balance between being an active father and supporting me during my divorce. To me, this speaks to his time management, character, and credibility of being an attorney who cares despite all that life will throw at one in their personal life. I have a lot of respect for him not only as a professional, but also as a friend. Thank you Ethan!
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by Chris leach
Hiring Boyd law was a very wise investment that paid off big time!! I had the pleasure of working with Joshua Fabian for 10-months who was kind, caring, savvy, diligent and highly effective in securing excellent outcomes, both in discovery and at trial.
Joshua's team Ashley, Rick and Sammy were super helpful and very responsive throughout the entire process. Joshua truly cares about his clients, he plays fair and his skills inside the courtroom was a pleasure to watch.
Joshua successfully protected my family from opposing parties attorneys fees requests! I am beyond grateful for being able to have Joshua litigate my case and hiring Boyd Law was the best decision I could have made! Thank you to the entire Boyd Law family, I am extremely grateful. Chris.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Lisa morris
05 Jul, 2024 by Richard forensky
Consulting Ethan Tidwell was an absolute godsend during my complex divorce case that involved the nightmare complexities of custody issues, finances, and an abusive/vindictive ex-spouse who falsely spread accusations about me during the divorce in an attempt to secure sole custody and leave the state with my children. And prevent my children from having a relationship with their father. Whenever Ethan was available for consultation, he was consistent in providing extremely valuable, honest, and reliable information. I was impressed in how I could ask Ethan any question and he always had an answer right away backed by extensive knowledge, objective facts, and a strong understanding of the inner workings of family court. He is also able to remember facts well and can regurgitate granular details from our conversations of months prior. This gave me confidence in speaking to him about my case. His guidance helped me in not only the legal aspects of my case but also in maintaining a positive bearing during what was one of the most emotionally-difficult periods of my life. Ethan has a good grasp of knowing what is important and what isn't, which often provided relief for me on many occasions when I was overstressed out about something. He gave solid guidance prior to my custody/fact finder evaluation. Ethan was always available in some form or fashion, which is rare with busy attorneys. If Ethan was in trial or mediation, he would always make a transparent attempt to let me know what he was doing whenever he was available to do so. And after he would reach back out, which speaks to his ability to juggle many cases at once. I have personally witnessed how he works hard around the clock. I remain more than impressed in how he continued to provide support for my case despite sometimes having to travel long distances within the state of California to represent his clients in other counties/jurisdictions as not all of his cases remain solely in Los Angeles. Additionally, Ethan is a family man and somehow has found a balance between being an active father and supporting me during my divorce. To me, this speaks to his time management, character, and credibility of being an attorney who cares despite all that life will throw at one in their personal life. I have a lot of respect for him not only as a professional, but also as a friend. Thank you Ethan!
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by Chris leach
Hiring Boyd law was a very wise investment that paid off big time!! I had the pleasure of working with Joshua Fabian for 10-months who was kind, caring, savvy, diligent and highly effective in securing excellent outcomes, both in discovery and at trial.
Joshua's team Ashley, Rick and Sammy were super helpful and very responsive throughout the entire process. Joshua truly cares about his clients, he plays fair and his skills inside the courtroom was a pleasure to watch.
Joshua successfully protected my family from opposing parties attorneys fees requests! I am beyond grateful for being able to have Joshua litigate my case and hiring Boyd Law was the best decision I could have made! Thank you to the entire Boyd Law family, I am extremely grateful. Chris.
Read more
08 Aug, 2024 by Lisa morris
05 Jul, 2024 by Richard forensky
Consulting Ethan Tidwell was an absolute godsend during my complex divorce case that involved the nightmare complexities of custody issues, finances, and an abusive/vindictive ex-spouse who falsely spread accusations about me during the divorce in an attempt to secure sole custody and leave the state with my children. And prevent my children from having a relationship with their father. Whenever Ethan was available for consultation, he was consistent in providing extremely valuable, honest, and reliable information. I was impressed in how I could ask Ethan any question and he always had an answer right away backed by extensive knowledge, objective facts, and a strong understanding of the inner workings of family court. He is also able to remember facts well and can regurgitate granular details from our conversations of months prior. This gave me confidence in speaking to him about my case. His guidance helped me in not only the legal aspects of my case but also in maintaining a positive bearing during what was one of the most emotionally-difficult periods of my life. Ethan has a good grasp of knowing what is important and what isn't, which often provided relief for me on many occasions when I was overstressed out about something. He gave solid guidance prior to my custody/fact finder evaluation. Ethan was always available in some form or fashion, which is rare with busy attorneys. If Ethan was in trial or mediation, he would always make a transparent attempt to let me know what he was doing whenever he was available to do so. And after he would reach back out, which speaks to his ability to juggle many cases at once. I have personally witnessed how he works hard around the clock. I remain more than impressed in how he continued to provide support for my case despite sometimes having to travel long distances within the state of California to represent his clients in other counties/jurisdictions as not all of his cases remain solely in Los Angeles. Additionally, Ethan is a family man and somehow has found a balance between being an active father and supporting me during my divorce. To me, this speaks to his time management, character, and credibility of being an attorney who cares despite all that life will throw at one in their personal life. I have a lot of respect for him not only as a professional, but also as a friend. Thank you Ethan!
Read more
23 Mar, 2024 by Chris leach
Hiring Boyd law was a very wise investment that paid off big time!! I had the pleasure of working with Joshua Fabian for 10-months who was kind, caring, savvy, diligent and highly effective in securing excellent outcomes, both in discovery and at trial.
Joshua's team Ashley, Rick and Sammy were super helpful and very responsive throughout the entire process. Joshua truly cares about his clients, he plays fair and his skills inside the courtroom was a pleasure to watch.
Joshua successfully protected my family from opposing parties attorneys fees requests! I am beyond grateful for being able to have Joshua litigate my case and hiring Boyd Law was the best decision I could have made! Thank you to the entire Boyd Law family, I am extremely grateful. Chris.
Read more
13 Aug, 2024 by Laura l
Highly recommend Arnaout immigration law firm. Lawyer Eman and her team was very friendly and professional.Eman compared to other lawyers friendly not aggressive , speak gentle.I had kind of hard case which nobody would take only Eman help me .She took my case seriously and win case and help me to get green card . She is lawyer from God.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Galle hettiarachchi
It’s my pleasure to express my sincere gratitude for the service I received from this law firm that I finally succeeded to get my Green Card.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Maryo metry
I highly recommend using Arnaout Law Firm . Eman and Monica did a fantastic job. They are professional and dedicated. They kept us well informed throughout the process. We are very happy with their services. We are glad that we found Eman Arnaout.
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24 Aug, 2024 by Dante pietrarca
Was just in LA, didn’t realize this guy was real and affiliated with whistlin diesel
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22 Aug, 2024 by Jeff otzen
Hart and his team will completely transform your life. I was in deep trouble (one more than one occasion) and he was able to get me the best result in the courtroom, all while changing my life for the better. Call him and follow his plan, it is definitely worth it if you are in need of/want the help.
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07 Aug, 2024 by M o
Did his magic, was not charged at all and record was sealed. End of story.
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13 Aug, 2024 by Laura l
Highly recommend Arnaout immigration law firm. Lawyer Eman and her team was very friendly and professional.Eman compared to other lawyers friendly not aggressive , speak gentle.I had kind of hard case which nobody would take only Eman help me .She took my case seriously and win case and help me to get green card . She is lawyer from God.
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10 Jul, 2024 by Galle hettiarachchi
It’s my pleasure to express my sincere gratitude for the service I received from this law firm that I finally succeeded to get my Green Card.
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24 Apr, 2024 by Maryo metry
I highly recommend using Arnaout Law Firm . Eman and Monica did a fantastic job. They are professional and dedicated. They kept us well informed throughout the process. We are very happy with their services. We are glad that we found Eman Arnaout.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Zahra dowlatabadi
Reached out to SmartLaw for a referral and was responded to in less 24 hrs.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Erik stroman
SD went above and beyond to help me over the course of 3 days to provide me the proper information I needed resulting in my ability to screen, communicate and ultimately engage with legal representation, which I was in a real hurry to secure. She is truly a person that anyone would want on their team. A++
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27 Aug, 2024 by J
MIGUEL AND HIS TEAM ARE TOP-NOTCH EXPERT PROFESSIONALS... MIGUEL QUICKLY GAVE MEE AN EXCELLENT LEAD TO AN ATTORNEY THAT DOES ELEVATOR INJURY CASES... THANKS TO SMARTLAW, I'VE BEEN ABLE TO GET THE BALL ROLLING! GRACIAS MIGUEL AND CREW...
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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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25 Jun, 2022 by Felicia ball lyons
04 Jan, 2020 by Vincent shang
25 Jun, 2022 by Felicia ball lyons
04 Jan, 2020 by Vincent shang
25 Jun, 2022 by Felicia ball lyons
04 Jan, 2020 by Vincent shang
07 Feb, 2023 by Anonymous
Called Mr. Bass many times over many weeks for help & information, he never answered his phone line even when the Receptionist forwarded my call & he never returned my call either. How horrible & uncaring & 100% unprofessional. The exact kind of Lawyer who gives other Lawyers & their sometimes very shady & deceptive industry a bad reputation. Bad & sad.
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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:
-
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:
-
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.
-
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.
