Lawyers map
>31
experienced lawyers
Filter by
08 Jan, 2025 by Angela turner
Mr. Scott and staff was very informative, and he worked my case to the very end.I would highly recommend Mr. Scott to any one that is looking for a honest and trust worthy attorney.Thank You, for the hard work you put into my case.
Read more
29 Dec, 2024 by Katelynn andrus
I highly recommend Amber L Cain for family law matters. Before choosing a lawyer, I had several consultations and I felt that she was the most genuine and sincere. Her pricing is extremely fair as well. She gave several referrals for other services when needed. She responded to my emails and calls in a timely fashion and when my matter was resolved I received the rest of my retainer without any issues! Definitely glad I choose to work with her!
Read more
16 Dec, 2024 by Joel gainey
Ms. Cain is a responsive, knowledgable and stalwart attorney. I retained her for a high-conflict custody case that would end up taking 18 months and the involvement of child development specialists to navigate; she was with me every step of the way, effectively moving the ball forward.
Against the backdrop of heightened stress, her ability to manage client expectations and engage both parties with practical solutions and a cool head was remarkable. Ms. Cain has an exceptional instinct for when and how to be strategically flexible, versus when to draw "red lines". My family, children and the coparenting relationship with my former spouse would not be in the positive place it is today without her support and expertise.
Read more
20 May, 2018 by Jessica
After dealing with a previous attorney that was well below satisfactory, Jon blew me out the water. He goes above and beyond for his clients, asking questions, filling motions most attorneys wouldn’t think of. This is an attorney that does his due diligence, and doesn’t rip you off! I am very greatful for Jon and everything’s he’s done for me thus far.
Read more
12 Aug, 2015 by Todd
Jon helped me thru a trying time with settling issues with insurance companies during my fight with cancer. During troubled times everyone needs a person with this kind of professional integrity to work toward a fair and justified outcome. Jon kept me informed during the entire process and advised me of my rights. Highly recommend Mr. Bethune to anyone with a legal need.
Read more
26 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Jon Bethune is an excellent lawyer. Always available and easy to talk to. He takes his time to explain everything in detail in terms that the average person can understand. Jon is caring and works hard for his clients. He's knowledgeable and very professional. I'm so glad we found him. He's the best! I would highly recommend him.
Read more
12 Apr, 2022 by Gray timmons
15 Feb, 2022 by Paul coughlin
21 Aug, 2020 by Amy
13 Feb, 2025 by Tonya harmason
I live in a town called Plaquemine LA. A very corrupt town. A town where every black man is guilty in the eyes of the judicial system. A system that is ran by certain families, and a whole lot of unfairness and corruption and injustice. My nephew was arrested on a murder charge here in Plaquemine. He told his mother that he wanted John Fuller & Associates to represent him on this charge. His, mother went and retained John Fuller as his attorney. Living in a town such as Plaquemine, and knowing how corrupted the system and town is. John Fuller came to Plaquemine and he represented my nephew. He let my nephew decide his faith. When I say my Family are forever grateful and Thankful to the Fuller Law Firm. It gave me great pleasure to hear, officials in Plaquemine saying Fuller is the best.
Thank you
John Fuller and Devin Jones
Read more
09 Feb, 2025 by Marty gibson
Paige is fast, professional, and understanding. Couldn’t ask for a better experience!
Read more
07 Feb, 2025 by Alberta jarreau
31 Jan, 2025 by Harold torrence
Mr. Hadley is an excellent lawyer and I highly recommend him.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Patsy
Oliver Hadley is a knowledgeable, caring, professional attorney, who is devoted to provide quality, professional legal services to his clients. He graduated from Tulane University Law School which is the top Law school in New Orleans.
Read more
22 Jan, 2025 by Ernestine hadley
I would recommend Attorney Oliver Hadley to anyone in need of a lawyer. I have found him to be very professional and knowledgeable.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Boris simpson
After hearing about the CLJA in 2023, I realized that I was one of those veterans stationed at Camp Lejeune doing the time period mentioned. I have suffered from several illnesses associated with the contamination. After searching out a law firm to handle my claim, I decided to go with Timothy Young Law Firm. The firm has been very helpful by keep me informed of what’s going on with my claim. I feel that they got my back by trying to get me the best result when the Navy decided to settled my claim. I would recommend Timothy Young Law Firm to anyone looking for great legal representation.
Boris Simpson
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Lindsay brunet
The Young Firm is amazing. They make you feel heard and understood. They have been so helpful and supportive since the first call. Definitely 10/10!
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Brandeon alexander
You guys are the best at what y'all do, and I would like to thank you all for everything you’ve done and continue to do..
Thank you Young firm!!
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Boris simpson
After hearing about the CLJA in 2023, I realized that I was one of those veterans stationed at Camp Lejeune doing the time period mentioned. I have suffered from several illnesses associated with the contamination. After searching out a law firm to handle my claim, I decided to go with Timothy Young Law Firm. The firm has been very helpful by keep me informed of what’s going on with my claim. I feel that they got my back by trying to get me the best result when the Navy decided to settled my claim. I would recommend Timothy Young Law Firm to anyone looking for great legal representation.
Boris Simpson
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Lindsay brunet
The Young Firm is amazing. They make you feel heard and understood. They have been so helpful and supportive since the first call. Definitely 10/10!
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Brandeon alexander
You guys are the best at what y'all do, and I would like to thank you all for everything you’ve done and continue to do..
Thank you Young firm!!
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Boris simpson
After hearing about the CLJA in 2023, I realized that I was one of those veterans stationed at Camp Lejeune doing the time period mentioned. I have suffered from several illnesses associated with the contamination. After searching out a law firm to handle my claim, I decided to go with Timothy Young Law Firm. The firm has been very helpful by keep me informed of what’s going on with my claim. I feel that they got my back by trying to get me the best result when the Navy decided to settled my claim. I would recommend Timothy Young Law Firm to anyone looking for great legal representation.
Boris Simpson
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Lindsay brunet
The Young Firm is amazing. They make you feel heard and understood. They have been so helpful and supportive since the first call. Definitely 10/10!
Read more
16 Jan, 2025 by Brandeon alexander
You guys are the best at what y'all do, and I would like to thank you all for everything you’ve done and continue to do..
Thank you Young firm!!
Read more
27 Jul, 2023 by Yvain bryant
10 Nov, 2021 by Jerramu trench
Bobby is 1 of the most loyal humans I’ve ever met !!!!!!! Keeps his word and all the way involved in his cases ….. he’s always honest and has always over exceeded my expectations!!!!! Thanks Bobby for being my family’s #1 go to guy ❤️💯🙏🏿
Read more
28 Oct, 2021 by Glen andrews
Bobby is more than your attorney he’s someone who puts personal interest in your life . He actually cares about you I know this personally as we have navigated some very rough seas together Bobby has never abandoned Ship ! He’s a fighter & will Fight for you . At the highest Recommendation I urge you Call Bobby Hortsburg
Red Beans & Ricky Yours
Glen David Andrews a 15 year client of Mr. Hortsburg
Read more
27 Feb, 2025 by Chuck ferguson
I have used Elizabeth several times to help me with a few legal issues. She successfully negotiated several contracts with my bisiness. She represented me on a minor domestic matter. She also helped me with some traffic problems. I appreciate that I can always call her for advice or a question. If she cant talk to me right away then scheduling a time to talk is always easy. I respect her dedication and hard work. She is not shy when it comes to fighting hard for a client. If you want a lawyer who will communicate with you and explain everything in clear terms, then I recommend you call her law firm.
Read more
26 Feb, 2025 by Chevy thompson
Working with Elizabeth Carpenter and her law firm has truly saved my life, which in the past was entirely unmanageable. In 2020 while I was in active addiction I made the grave mistake of falling into the wrong crowd of people that unfortunately involved me in a high profile case in Jefferson Parish. By some miracle she and her law firm were able to help me retain most of my freedoms and continued to fight for me through the process of probation and ensuring that I got the help I needed to achieve a sober life. She still continues today to help me in the fight to rebuild my life one step at a time. Today I am a free man thanks to Elizabeth!
Read more
25 Feb, 2025 by Debbie tye
This is long and i apologize, but this needs to be seen.
I received a ordinance violation ticket last year and hired Elizabeth after an issue with our previous attorney. She said she would do some research and let us know our options. She never contacted us back, so unless we called her there was no communication. Everytime we asked what was going on, she had nothing. WE did the research, WE did all the footwork. When my trial came she was still not prepared. The DA questioned the officer involved and he had no clue who I was and then assumed I was actually someone else. When Elizabeth went to question him she did not ask any questions regarding what the officer said and bumbled through the entire questioning. Ultimately I was found guilty for a charge that I never did.
My husband in his frustration through this
( his review is here as well anthony beck) contacted her several times regarding the fact she never did any research, or contacted us, she would get short and overly defensive with him. He did tell her flat out that during this time she did nothing which is the truth.
In court she told me he was a "scary, horrible abusive man" and she "feels sorry for me".
She responded to his review with half truths and messaged me demanding he remove his review, again saying that she feels sorry for me living with "such a horrible abusive man" which he is definitely not.
Read more
27 Feb, 2025 by Chuck ferguson
I have used Elizabeth several times to help me with a few legal issues. She successfully negotiated several contracts with my bisiness. She represented me on a minor domestic matter. She also helped me with some traffic problems. I appreciate that I can always call her for advice or a question. If she cant talk to me right away then scheduling a time to talk is always easy. I respect her dedication and hard work. She is not shy when it comes to fighting hard for a client. If you want a lawyer who will communicate with you and explain everything in clear terms, then I recommend you call her law firm.
Read more
26 Feb, 2025 by Chevy thompson
Working with Elizabeth Carpenter and her law firm has truly saved my life, which in the past was entirely unmanageable. In 2020 while I was in active addiction I made the grave mistake of falling into the wrong crowd of people that unfortunately involved me in a high profile case in Jefferson Parish. By some miracle she and her law firm were able to help me retain most of my freedoms and continued to fight for me through the process of probation and ensuring that I got the help I needed to achieve a sober life. She still continues today to help me in the fight to rebuild my life one step at a time. Today I am a free man thanks to Elizabeth!
Read more
25 Feb, 2025 by Debbie tye
This is long and i apologize, but this needs to be seen.
I received a ordinance violation ticket last year and hired Elizabeth after an issue with our previous attorney. She said she would do some research and let us know our options. She never contacted us back, so unless we called her there was no communication. Everytime we asked what was going on, she had nothing. WE did the research, WE did all the footwork. When my trial came she was still not prepared. The DA questioned the officer involved and he had no clue who I was and then assumed I was actually someone else. When Elizabeth went to question him she did not ask any questions regarding what the officer said and bumbled through the entire questioning. Ultimately I was found guilty for a charge that I never did.
My husband in his frustration through this
( his review is here as well anthony beck) contacted her several times regarding the fact she never did any research, or contacted us, she would get short and overly defensive with him. He did tell her flat out that during this time she did nothing which is the truth.
In court she told me he was a "scary, horrible abusive man" and she "feels sorry for me".
She responded to his review with half truths and messaged me demanding he remove his review, again saying that she feels sorry for me living with "such a horrible abusive man" which he is definitely not.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
02 Mar, 2025 by Marlon harrell
What’s going on with my case??
Your unwillingness to return phone calls and/or give updates is ridiculous!!!!
I don’t bother anyone about anything, it’s not in my nature. But to be ignored by someone who I thought I could trust with my case is very unsettling. I brought my suit to you years ago, and I still have no resolution or knowledge of what you’re doing with the case. I’ve been through so much since I came to your office many years ago now, and you sir, well it seems like you just don’t give a damn (my opinion).
Read more
04 Jan, 2025 by Vivian conroy
I hired Sharon Williams to help me with a name change. I told her I wanted to use an attorney with experience in this sort of thing so I wouldn't have to worry about it and would get it done fast as I need to have my preferred name match for my job. She told me not to worry, that she would take care of it quickly. I initially met with her in late July, and I signed my petition in early August. it is now January and the process is not done. She has been very unresponsive, as I've texted her multiple times asking for specifics on why this is taking so long. I now haven't heard from her in a week. I've called her office multiple times with no answer and left messages. Called her phone but the voicemail box is full. The lack of communication leaves me to not trust that she is able to do the job I paid her to do in a timely manner, and feel like I've wasted my time and money for something I would have been better off doing myself. Ive spoken with people who have changed their names on their own with no attorney and most did it within a month. I am at 5 months. My passport has expired and my license expires soon which will be a major complication where I have to renew it under my old name, while I was under the impression would have been taken care of by now. I would not trust Sharon Williams with anything as important as custody or a will if she can't even properly do a name change.
Read more
14 Nov, 2024 by Shannon longmire
Charlie and Veronica were wonderful. They took a very long process and made it as stress free as possible while I was healing from injuries.
Read more
06 Jul, 2023 by Heidi sensebe
Eric and his wife, Pam, are both very knowledgeable about what they do. They were very thorough when explaining my legal matters. When I was at the office I felt like I was important. Thanks to the Person team!!!
Read more
12 Sep, 2022 by Betty riolo
I first want to compliment Attorney Eric Person’s staff, Ms. Tabitha and Pam.
This turned out to be a very lengthy and emotional case but my calls were always answered
by them and any questions I had were answered. Tabitha even wrote me a personal letter when she mailed my documents back.
I was satisfied with the outcome of my case.
Read more
11 Jun, 2021 by Keith raines
He is an old fashion attorney.
Small staff. Very attentive.
Huge huge LSU fan
Read more
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:
-
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.
