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05 Dec, 2024 by Ashley wolcik
Incredibly rude customer service. Call me a liar when I called to inquire about help. Steer clear.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Paulina dominiak-bienias
25 Nov, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
05 Dec, 2024 by Ashley wolcik
Incredibly rude customer service. Call me a liar when I called to inquire about help. Steer clear.
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02 Dec, 2024 by Paulina dominiak-bienias
25 Nov, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
09 Dec, 2023 by Shigeaki kitaoka
01 May, 2022 by Pavlina kasparkova
When you need partner for IP in USA. Great choice.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Tickwise 3 moms organics
These guys are AMAZING! As a small women owned business, the daunting trademark/patent world was completely foreign and overwhelming to us. Amster, Rothstein and Ebenstein and everyone on their team took the time to explain (and made sure we understood) every step in the process. They have been more than professional, they actually care about our business and our success. Thanks guys for helping out our small business and making it the success that it is
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09 Dec, 2023 by Shigeaki kitaoka
01 May, 2022 by Pavlina kasparkova
When you need partner for IP in USA. Great choice.
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24 Jun, 2021 by Tickwise 3 moms organics
These guys are AMAZING! As a small women owned business, the daunting trademark/patent world was completely foreign and overwhelming to us. Amster, Rothstein and Ebenstein and everyone on their team took the time to explain (and made sure we understood) every step in the process. They have been more than professional, they actually care about our business and our success. Thanks guys for helping out our small business and making it the success that it is
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26 Apr, 2024 by Mike caliolo
*Zero stars is not allowed, so I was forced to give one star without my consent.
Greedy, corrupt, and deceitful ... and they aren't even successful lawyers. They sold their souls for nothing.
Management has frequently allowed children and ex-employees to roam the office which contains sensitive data and unlocked checks. They are constantly understaffed due to the tremendous turnover rate, and often make serious mistakes due to negligence and incompetence.
Be very wary when dealing with them, I have witnessed a lot of red flags.
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17 Sep, 2023 by Bibi duck
17 Sep, 2023 by Randall doiley
26 Dec, 2024 by Elie ngoukelibi
The dishes and glasswares were extremely dirty to the point I couldn’t use it myself - I got to work I turned their kitchen into a mirror everything super clean even the employees and guess noticed the differences - I will not leave dishes stay unwashed overnight to avoid food and drink poisoning but to the manager it’s not important because I was mistreated by one of his third party server and he came and immediately removed me from my long term gigs - clearly he doesn’t know the importance of clean dishes when offering catering services - the kitchen doesn’t have a 3 sinks comportments and for sure nothing is being sanitized because they use 2 small domestic dishwashers. For sure anything being used right now is dirty especially plates and mugs ( I even turned all mugs super clean no coffee stains or lipstick) but the man got rid of me because I challenged a server who said I don’t know what I was doing. His decision was based on discrimination because I refused to go permanent with the company
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18 Nov, 2024 by Ben pasch
Abhorrent, unprofessional, immoral.
Despite multiple email, Zoom, and verbal conversations regarding my preferred pronouns, Department Managers refused to respect my preferences, openly and loudly referring to me by the gender they decided they knew better than me. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for the LGBTQIA2+ Community. Additionally, multiple comments were made by Department Managers that they hated coworkers, internal and external, because their Indian. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for people of color.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Lauren kasmir
Sydney was amazing! I only have my earlobe pierced and came in for a nostril piercing. She was so welcoming in making me feel comfortable and at home. She was very precise in her location and I am so satisfied!
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08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
14 Jan, 2025 by Gail stead
Justin is the best! Takes care of everything you need and does it fast! Our family has been using them for over 15 yrs.
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13 Mar, 2024 by Shannon hinckley
His name is no longer on the sign, but I met with him several times six years ago and 2 weeks ago at this office. Joe Liccardi is a crook. Six years ago he took $500 from my boyfriend to file a will and provided me a signed copy along with the receipt for receiving $500 cash, and kept the original in the office. I was there when the will was signed. Upon his passing last month I contacted and met with Joe with the copy he gave me in hand. Not only did Joe act as if we had never met, he also denied having the original will, which I witnessed him telling one of his assistants to "file (it) and shred the old one (will)" on the very same day it was signed, witnessed, notarized, provided me a copy and received $500 cash. My boyfriend and I were both there. He did NOT provide us the original, if he did what would be the point of providing us a copy? How can they not have it in their files? My signed copy lists Joe as the executor, how can he not have it? Everyone knows the standard rule is to keep all files for at least seven years? Now my daughter, NOT me is being robbed of her inheritance. Something Shady is going on. I'm currently in the process of probating my father's estate with another firm, this is not foreign territory for me. Please don't insult my intelligence. Please take your business elsewhere.
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14 Mar, 2023 by Rhett butler
Helpful.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Jeff bessmer
We had two issues:
1. We had our closing on our house purchase and our attorney just.. never showed up. We waited 45 minutes and thankfully their team scrambled to have someone else put everything together for us, but we never found out what happened. I hope they were ok!
2. They agreed to pay our taxes as part of escrow, but mistakenly didn't pay it and sent us a check instead. Thankfully they admitted the mistake, but when I asked them to pay the late fee the county charged us they just
...stopped responding.
We won't be working with them again in either personal or business capacity.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Debbie hall-ryan
I would highly recommend this law office. We have used them a couple of times and they are professional, prompt, caring and very helpful. Excellent office.
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24 Jul, 2024 by Loafus crambuckle
Blonde middle aged lady with the bad fake lashes at the front is a major grouch and makes coming here a dreadful experience. I’ll change my review once she’s finally gone. (Which probably won’t take long)
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21 Nov, 2023 by Carol margolis
03 Feb, 2022 by R.j. calale
Very impersonable.
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06 Dec, 2021 by Michael warren
A very warm and inviting office. Immensely knowledgeable and helpful staff which made my process easier.
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16 Apr, 2024 by Jared sharfman
I paid them to Greive my taxes. It was never done.
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12 Feb, 2024 by Nick
Absolutely horrible customer service. No one calls you back or answer any questions. Would give them zero stars if option was available
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02 May, 2021 by Lance williams
Can't say how good or bad they are but response from their online form and no answer when calling the listed number.
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27 Nov, 2023 by Anonymous
This lawyer stole money from a veteran owned minority business
I would stay away from this shady organization
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28 Sep, 2018 by Chevy
When ever you call in - its like going through a investigation being cross examined by the receptionist , The filtering process was very unprofessional not to mention she seemed like she was exiting her car with baby noises in the background . At $ 450 a hour , if someone doesn't have the understanding to at least put up a professional front then how likely would he be once he is hired . ??
What with all the secrecy and the call filtering ,
Chevy
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12 Aug, 2018 by Anonymous
Our company has been in business for many years and have used many lawyers alan sasson and his team have surpassed our expectations by miles. we will use him for all our business needs in the future and so should anyone who needs a go-getter type boutique law firm
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26 Dec, 2024 by Elie ngoukelibi
The dishes and glasswares were extremely dirty to the point I couldn’t use it myself - I got to work I turned their kitchen into a mirror everything super clean even the employees and guess noticed the differences - I will not leave dishes stay unwashed overnight to avoid food and drink poisoning but to the manager it’s not important because I was mistreated by one of his third party server and he came and immediately removed me from my long term gigs - clearly he doesn’t know the importance of clean dishes when offering catering services - the kitchen doesn’t have a 3 sinks comportments and for sure nothing is being sanitized because they use 2 small domestic dishwashers. For sure anything being used right now is dirty especially plates and mugs ( I even turned all mugs super clean no coffee stains or lipstick) but the man got rid of me because I challenged a server who said I don’t know what I was doing. His decision was based on discrimination because I refused to go permanent with the company
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18 Nov, 2024 by Ben pasch
Abhorrent, unprofessional, immoral.
Despite multiple email, Zoom, and verbal conversations regarding my preferred pronouns, Department Managers refused to respect my preferences, openly and loudly referring to me by the gender they decided they knew better than me. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for the LGBTQIA2+ Community. Additionally, multiple comments were made by Department Managers that they hated coworkers, internal and external, because their Indian. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for people of color.
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14 Oct, 2024 by Lauren kasmir
Sydney was amazing! I only have my earlobe pierced and came in for a nostril piercing. She was so welcoming in making me feel comfortable and at home. She was very precise in her location and I am so satisfied!
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Elie ngoukelibi
The dishes and glasswares were extremely dirty to the point I couldn’t use it myself - I got to work I turned their kitchen into a mirror everything super clean even the employees and guess noticed the differences - I will not leave dishes stay unwashed overnight to avoid food and drink poisoning but to the manager it’s not important because I was mistreated by one of his third party server and he came and immediately removed me from my long term gigs - clearly he doesn’t know the importance of clean dishes when offering catering services - the kitchen doesn’t have a 3 sinks comportments and for sure nothing is being sanitized because they use 2 small domestic dishwashers. For sure anything being used right now is dirty especially plates and mugs ( I even turned all mugs super clean no coffee stains or lipstick) but the man got rid of me because I challenged a server who said I don’t know what I was doing. His decision was based on discrimination because I refused to go permanent with the company
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Ben pasch
Abhorrent, unprofessional, immoral.
Despite multiple email, Zoom, and verbal conversations regarding my preferred pronouns, Department Managers refused to respect my preferences, openly and loudly referring to me by the gender they decided they knew better than me. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for the LGBTQIA2+ Community. Additionally, multiple comments were made by Department Managers that they hated coworkers, internal and external, because their Indian. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for people of color.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Lauren kasmir
Sydney was amazing! I only have my earlobe pierced and came in for a nostril piercing. She was so welcoming in making me feel comfortable and at home. She was very precise in her location and I am so satisfied!
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Elie ngoukelibi
The dishes and glasswares were extremely dirty to the point I couldn’t use it myself - I got to work I turned their kitchen into a mirror everything super clean even the employees and guess noticed the differences - I will not leave dishes stay unwashed overnight to avoid food and drink poisoning but to the manager it’s not important because I was mistreated by one of his third party server and he came and immediately removed me from my long term gigs - clearly he doesn’t know the importance of clean dishes when offering catering services - the kitchen doesn’t have a 3 sinks comportments and for sure nothing is being sanitized because they use 2 small domestic dishwashers. For sure anything being used right now is dirty especially plates and mugs ( I even turned all mugs super clean no coffee stains or lipstick) but the man got rid of me because I challenged a server who said I don’t know what I was doing. His decision was based on discrimination because I refused to go permanent with the company
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Ben pasch
Abhorrent, unprofessional, immoral.
Despite multiple email, Zoom, and verbal conversations regarding my preferred pronouns, Department Managers refused to respect my preferences, openly and loudly referring to me by the gender they decided they knew better than me. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for the LGBTQIA2+ Community. Additionally, multiple comments were made by Department Managers that they hated coworkers, internal and external, because their Indian. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for people of color.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Lauren kasmir
Sydney was amazing! I only have my earlobe pierced and came in for a nostril piercing. She was so welcoming in making me feel comfortable and at home. She was very precise in her location and I am so satisfied!
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Elie ngoukelibi
The dishes and glasswares were extremely dirty to the point I couldn’t use it myself - I got to work I turned their kitchen into a mirror everything super clean even the employees and guess noticed the differences - I will not leave dishes stay unwashed overnight to avoid food and drink poisoning but to the manager it’s not important because I was mistreated by one of his third party server and he came and immediately removed me from my long term gigs - clearly he doesn’t know the importance of clean dishes when offering catering services - the kitchen doesn’t have a 3 sinks comportments and for sure nothing is being sanitized because they use 2 small domestic dishwashers. For sure anything being used right now is dirty especially plates and mugs ( I even turned all mugs super clean no coffee stains or lipstick) but the man got rid of me because I challenged a server who said I don’t know what I was doing. His decision was based on discrimination because I refused to go permanent with the company
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Ben pasch
Abhorrent, unprofessional, immoral.
Despite multiple email, Zoom, and verbal conversations regarding my preferred pronouns, Department Managers refused to respect my preferences, openly and loudly referring to me by the gender they decided they knew better than me. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for the LGBTQIA2+ Community. Additionally, multiple comments were made by Department Managers that they hated coworkers, internal and external, because their Indian. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for people of color.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Lauren kasmir
Sydney was amazing! I only have my earlobe pierced and came in for a nostril piercing. She was so welcoming in making me feel comfortable and at home. She was very precise in her location and I am so satisfied!
Read more
26 Dec, 2024 by Elie ngoukelibi
The dishes and glasswares were extremely dirty to the point I couldn’t use it myself - I got to work I turned their kitchen into a mirror everything super clean even the employees and guess noticed the differences - I will not leave dishes stay unwashed overnight to avoid food and drink poisoning but to the manager it’s not important because I was mistreated by one of his third party server and he came and immediately removed me from my long term gigs - clearly he doesn’t know the importance of clean dishes when offering catering services - the kitchen doesn’t have a 3 sinks comportments and for sure nothing is being sanitized because they use 2 small domestic dishwashers. For sure anything being used right now is dirty especially plates and mugs ( I even turned all mugs super clean no coffee stains or lipstick) but the man got rid of me because I challenged a server who said I don’t know what I was doing. His decision was based on discrimination because I refused to go permanent with the company
Read more
18 Nov, 2024 by Ben pasch
Abhorrent, unprofessional, immoral.
Despite multiple email, Zoom, and verbal conversations regarding my preferred pronouns, Department Managers refused to respect my preferences, openly and loudly referring to me by the gender they decided they knew better than me. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for the LGBTQIA2+ Community. Additionally, multiple comments were made by Department Managers that they hated coworkers, internal and external, because their Indian. Be warned, this is NOT a safe place for people of color.
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Lauren kasmir
Sydney was amazing! I only have my earlobe pierced and came in for a nostril piercing. She was so welcoming in making me feel comfortable and at home. She was very precise in her location and I am so satisfied!
Read more
15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
22 Nov, 2024 by Kristen bonn
If I could give negative stars then I would. It took months for them to get back to me, just to tell me they couldn't help me. There was a contract dispute and the attorney didn't even read the contract. When I discussed it with her she was telling me one thing and I said, what about section 14? She said I was wrong, but then I read it to her and she said, hold on (so she could read it). Then she wanted to add two figures when it clearly said the difference of them. She asked me if I had anything else from the company and I told her yes I sent it in. She then reviewed it.
Even though she acknowledged my facts were right, told me there was nothing she could do. I said, so it took you months to tell me that? She said she had to review the file. If she had previously reviewed the file and I still had to point things out to her then she needs better reading comprehension.
She decided she wasn't going to help me before she read my file or talked to me - incredibly unprofessional.
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23 Oct, 2024 by Tyra barton
Lack of diversity and inclusion
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08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
08 Dec, 2024 by Ryan c von sähn niarchos blavatnik romanov al saud
09 Nov, 2024 by Lexie
25 Sep, 2024 by Mohd yahiya
19 Dec, 2024 by Robert strum
17 Aug, 2024 by Sean vazquez
Elizabeth(Beth) was very helpful with construction contract advice.
Thanks Beth
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01 Aug, 2024 by B g
Horrendous experience with Melvin and Melvin. They were referred to me by my Realtor for our house closing. Very unprofessional. Closing took 2 and a half months and was delayed so much that it ended up costing us thousands of dollars. I was going to keep my options on them to myself but after receiving the closing paperwork in the mail with “inaccurate” information, I’ve decided to give a review here and on all of my Social Media apps. Attorney, after she screwed up, wrote that I requested funds to be wired to me after the sale. This is absolutely incorrect and the Attorney must know this. It’s well documented via email that she screwed up and again cost me more money to fix her mistake. I’m sure this a CYA situation. Such a silly thing to be “inaccurate” about. This Firm certainly doesn’t need anymore bad reviews but here we are. Too bad the Attorney wasn’t “accurate” in her file. ** using accurate and inaccurate in quotes because I’m sure I’d hear from them if I used the term that actually fits!
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15 Jun, 2024 by B bailey
Please run as far away from this attorney as possible. In addition to being inarticulate, my personal interactions with Mrs. Williams have lead me to believe she's dishonest and simply not good at her job.
Mrs. Williams was hired by my father's baby mother and her children to represent them in a probate proceeding. Though Mrs. Williams was not the attorney of record for the estate, she acted as the de facto spokeperson for matters regarding an estate that had been dormant for nearly a decade. Mrs. Williams did everything in the interest of her client. Kim Williams inserted herself in matters that did not involve her, including refusing to give me a copy of a Title Report to which I was entitled to receive per New York City's Surrogate Court Procedure Act. Furthermore, when I questioned Mrs. Williams' conflict of interest for handling the needs of her clients while interfering with the estate, she accused me of "threatening" her and sent me a cease and desist email. As an attorney, she was unaware that cease and desist letters must be served in person. What attorney, worth his or her salt, accuses someone of threatening them when they are unable to answer questions germane to an estate that they inserted themselves in? This is just one of many examples that show her inability to do her job well. Mrs. Williams also filed objections to me being the administrator of the estate when I never made the request of the court. Those objections cost money! One can assume reading comprehension is not her strong suit.
I have attached images of Mrs. William's 5 star review from a person who happens to share her same exact name. I've also included the email from her claiming she found my non-threatening emails threatening. Though I have redacted both of our email addresses, the emails are unedited. Please steer clear of this lawyer/real estate agent. You'll thank me later.
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11 Jun, 2024 by Majiya chai
04 Jun, 2024 by Bettye anderson
18 Mar, 2022 by Anonymous
He was not the laywer for cousin and me, too imapatient when explained what our needs were. annoying him
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04 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous
Tried calling several times for representation ,but he never responded and when I finally got someone in the phone the guy who answered was super rude and stated “Mr. Stein does not accept sales calls”.I responded “ sir I’m in need of representation this is not a sales call”. He repeated “no sales calls” and then hung up. I was totally confused by what happened,but if this is a suggestion of his services well I’d be in trouble.
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06 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
He drag my case out and lied on the phone to us our new lawyer because had fire him said this should have been done years ago but peter dragged it out don't go to him waste of 5 years
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16 Sep, 2024 by Gregory rodriguez
Great firm and I highly recommend.
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15 Aug, 2024 by Chris seck
19 Oct, 2021 by Tipp boogie
30 May, 2024 by Michael morris
Great eviction lawyer for landlords
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29 Sep, 2020 by T.j. s
If you want to get ripped off and treated very poorly and deal with a lawyer that doesn’t know what he’s doing this is the place to go!! Just ask for Scott Goldie, he’s the most incompetent, unprofessional, rude lawyer you will ever deal with.
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21 Aug, 2019 by Avery dewing
I had contacted this office and ended up having the attorney Scott B. Goldie take on my SSDI case. We met a few times and all seemed well. A year after our initial meeting I received a hearing date. I met with Goldie to check in and all seemed fine. About two weeks before the hearing he calls me and tries to get me to drop him as my lawyer. Since I had no time to find new representation I declined. He let it slip that he wasn't even aware that I was applying for SSDI and not SSI. I kept him up to date on my information and it was clear that he had spent no time reviewing my case. He sent me a letter notifying me that he was dropping my case 1 week before my hearing. I recommend seeking representation elsewhere.
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14 Feb, 2025 by Txcat sailor
19 May, 2021 by Nicole van der tuin
24 Oct, 2019 by Mby by
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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.
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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.
