Lawyers map
>123
experienced lawyers
Filter by
26 Dec, 2024 by Dr asaad
I you have a legal problem ask for James Polack, he is the best in Omaha, very honest.
Dr Asaad Mahdi
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Ryan romero
I had the pleasure of working with James Polack and his team, and I couldn't be more satisfied with the level of service they provided. From the very beginning, James was attentive, professional, and truly cared about my case. He took the time to thoroughly explain each step of the legal process, ensuring I felt comfortable and informed throughout.
James' expertise and attention to detail were evident in every aspect of the case, and his commitment to achieving the best possible outcome was clear. His communication skills are top-notch, and he was always quick to respond to my questions, providing clear and concise answers.
What sets James Polack apart is his genuine concern for his clients. He went above and beyond to make sure I understood my options and worked tirelessly to represent my best interests. His professionalism, combined with a personal touch, made all the difference.
If you're looking for a knowledgeable, dedicated, and compassionate attorney, I highly recommend James Polack P.C. Law Office. They will provide you with excellent legal representation and peace of mind.
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Weather man
Very helpful and knowledgeable
Read more
09 May, 2023 by Mina
He helped with a name change. He was quick to respond, super helpful and made it easy as pie. I highly recommend him for anything. Hes very smart and charming as well.
Read more
27 Jan, 2023 by Crystal
Taylor helped me with my contracts. He had a challenge because it was an area he never worked in. My contracts are beautifully done and easy to understand!
Read more
27 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I'm happy for having hired Taylor to represent me. He is respectful, professional, and a human being, which was the very first reason I chose to work with him. I had conversations with some other attorneys, and did feel some of them handle clients more like something rather than someone. I'm extremely grateful that Taylor was highly responsive and responsible when an unpredicted time-sensitive item came up and needed to be tackled. It was resolved greatly thanks to Taylor's help. I'm also glad that all the valuable help came with a reasonable price.
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Maura marcos
Mr. Williams is the most efficient and honest lawyer. 💯 recommended
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Chalandria james
Patrick was very helpful and gave me a number of options. I highly recommend him!!
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Dustin teeter
Excellent communication.
Excellent time management.
Excellent law office.
Read more
29 Jan, 2025 by Cade moore
Remarkable service! Not to mention was a tremendous help to me while the staff was very helpful all around as well.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Jim b
Outstanding service and extreme expertise. They truly truly and sincerely care about their client.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by Manuel campos
Tom was very helpful & easy to work with , got me the best result! Highly recommend
Read more
24 Jan, 2025 by Maura marcos
Mr. Williams is the most efficient and honest lawyer. 💯 recommended
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Chalandria james
Patrick was very helpful and gave me a number of options. I highly recommend him!!
Read more
22 Nov, 2024 by Dustin teeter
Excellent communication.
Excellent time management.
Excellent law office.
Read more
04 Apr, 2016 by Tom
I own a small business in Omaha and Kirk has assisted in filings and represented me for over 2 years. He is reliable and very thorough. Highly recommended.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Kurt stange
Firm is AWESOME! I worked with Spencer Murphy. He was on point, focused, cost conscientious, great attorney, great experience. Highly recommend.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Dasher's carpet cleaning
We used Baird Holm to setup registered trademarks for us. Definitely would recommend.
Read more
08 Jul, 2024 by Dorsay einung
13 Aug, 2022 by Earl starkey
24 Feb, 2020 by Scott o'dell
15 Nov, 2019 by Mary mather
29 Jul, 2022 by Dwight busjahn
24 Mar, 2022 by Gary
Very understanding lawyer very intelligent I recommend him to everybody that needs a little help
Read more
20 Aug, 2020 by Kelly mccurry
Mr. Naatz is the best Attorney I've ever worked with, I am a small business owner and deal with attorney's all the time, i had a dispute with one of my rentals nieghbors, I was facing 5 Phelonies Mr. Naatz managed to get all 5 dropped, at a resonable cost!
Read more
02 Dec, 2024 by John allman
22 Apr, 2021 by John berry
Heather Voegele is a a great litigator whom I have known for more than a decade. She is sharp and tough and has built a great team with high standards and a lot of talent.
Read more
25 Jan, 2023 by Nathan dallon
15 Nov, 2021 by Abigail chapman
11 Oct, 2021 by Paul witt
Alex is awesome
Read more
11 Oct, 2021 by Paul witt
Alex is awesome
Read more
11 Oct, 2021 by Paul witt
Alex is awesome
Read more
13 Nov, 2024 by Vicki klein
13 Nov, 2024 by Haciel molinar
I just wanted to take a moment to express my gratitude for all the support and guidance Allie provided throughout my lawsuit. Her assistance has been invaluable, and I truly appreciate everything she and her team have done to help me navigate this hard process and very stressful situation my daughter and I were put through.
I feel confident that with Allies help, we have achieved a positive outcome that will make things easier in the long run. Thank you once again for all your hard work and dedication Allie
I will definitely contact them again if I need further assistance with my case.
Thank you again for everything.
Read more
13 Nov, 2024 by Sarah karas
I was so afraid that I would never have my children. Tara was so patient, and understanding with everything in my situation. There were times that I think her fight was stronger then mine. I am so grateful and will always refer anyone to Hightower Reff Law
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Brittne morris
Very impressed with the hard work and dedication of Seth at Liberty Law Group! After he has helped out a few friends, I’ve learned that he actually spends the time understanding his clients goals and educates them on what their options are to achieve these goals! In the end, he has proved himself to be an attorney that refuses to back down when your justice is on the line. If you are looking for a down to earth attorney who isn’t scared to take things to a trial he is absolutely your guy!!!
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Jonathan marquez
I had a great experience with my lawyer, David Ceraso. From the beginning to the end of my case, David was there to make sure that I was well informed about the proceedings of my case. Great communication and great insight was provided. I was very impressed by the outcome of my case. Great job by David Ceraso. Definitely worth it.
Read more
20 Dec, 2024 by Erica eagle
15 Nov, 2024 by Mary boyd
01 Oct, 2024 by Nan t
I highly recommend this firm. I spent quite a while attempting to complete the application on my own, but eventually gave up. I contacted a few firms, but Cavanaugh was the only one with both immediate availability and a willingness to help with the initial disability application. Turning it over to Cavanaugh Law Firm was a huge relief, as I was really stressed about the application.
I had numerous questions throughout the process, but neither Kathleen Smith nor Mary Kellogg ever sounded annoyed, which I truly appreciated. The application process went extremely smoothly and was surprisingly quick. They kept me updated every step of the way, and I have absolutely no regrets about choosing Cavanaugh.
Read more
05 Aug, 2024 by Paul nave
Cavanaugh Law Firm
Patrick Cavanaugh, Kathleen Smith did a wonderful job with my case. In fact, I'd say it was above and beyond wonderful. I am exceptionally pleased. Kathleen Smith especially as she worked all the details. She was very dedicated to helping me through the entire enrollment process. She gave great advice and guidance for filling out forms required, handled and followed up with the Social Security Administration. She returned my emails and answered my questions quickly. All this got me my benefit so fast. I was like WOW! Literally, within a month I received my benefit and within another month, received approval for my disability benefit. I have no doubt that without their help, I would still be waiting for my benefit not to mention the frustration with going at it by myself. I highly recommend the Cavanaugh Law Firm. If you're thinking about asking for help DO IT WITH THEM!
Paul Nave
July 2024
Read more
25 Dec, 2024 by Eric wilmoth
Channing Burd is the Johnnie Cochran of Goosmann Law
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Amanda summers
Andrew Braun represented me through my divorce. I have been very impressed with him. He is very honest which I value. He has guided me through and has taken the time to make things easy to understand. I’m happy with his work and with the outcome.
I highly recommend
Read more
03 Jun, 2024 by Shaun vetick
Brad Marsicek did an excellent job for me with my custody case. He provided excellent advice and represented me very well.
I highly recommend him.
Read more
17 Dec, 2024 by Dj gonzalez
If you are seeking an attorney in Sarpy County NE, and your judge is Stefanie Martinez, then I would suggest Donald Roberts, because Martinez will sign off on whatever Donald writes for your divorce decree. I'm assuming Don Roberts represented Stefanie Martinez in one or both of her own divorce cases, but the judge has no integrity or ethics and will favor in Don Roberts. So, Men, if you are going against Donald and or in Martinez's courtroom, then you are doomed.
Read more
05 Jan, 2023 by Shelby hardesty
Don Roberts is an amazing lawyer. He helped me with custody of my son and I couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome. I didn’t feel like just a client. He truly cared about the well being of my son and his safety. I would recommend him to anyone I know. His work is incredible!
Read more
01 Jan, 2023 by Vickie tiffin
Highly recommend
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Melissa chase
Nick Faletti is an awesome attorney!!!!! He listens to my problems and helps me in any way he can possible!!!!!
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Andrea acevedo
They wanted $250 for a 1-hour consultation before they would EVEN SCHEDULE. I had already filed the divorce complaint pro se (on my own), received an answer, written my own parenting plan, and taken the parenting class before I ever contacted them. I tomdthem clearly in my consultation request I just needed limited scope representation. THAT IS INSANE, PEOPLE! Find a different lawyer/law group. This one is clearly just out to take your money.
Read more
24 Dec, 2024 by John white
I lost my dog, my kids, all my personal belongings, half of my military pension, half of my VA disability pay (which is actually against federal law), lost all of my GI Bill, and never got to see or talk my kids again, even while paying child support. I am happy to take a polygraph for anyone that doubts or disputes this statement. Thank you for your service!
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
31 Jan, 2025 by Nathan kennedy
Case was a slam dunk, would've won the trial hands down. Charged 1,900$ upfront, was told it would cover everything but the trial. Pre trial plea bargain was basically no jail time and all the charges go away a year later, he told me i wouldn't be charged for the set aside that's written into the court order. Today, after the year has passed, i am being told it's another 750$ to do the set aside?? Scummy.. very scummy. Possibly a mistake due to a high work load, but this is not a new case and the services were already paid for upfront. It's like they forgot about their own word entirely, and now they are not interested in upholding the court order from the judge (set aside was written into the court order by the judge)
Read more
05 Dec, 2024 by Dalton dillow
Mark helped me with a family law case and he did not fall short. He was reliable, cordial, set proper expectations, and gave it to me straight, the entire time. I truly appreciated working alongside someone whom was humble, immersive and truly team-inclusive.
For those who think it's a losing and biased battle for the kiddos; Mark and Krista will set you straight.
Thank you again Mark for everything, and the success achieved.
Read more
25 Aug, 2024 by Aaron hughes
He helped me in case and after that case I had some issues and he did not bother to respond. I felt disappointed that I thought the attorney and I built a relationship that he could be reliable to my concerns in the future. How would you feel about that as a client?
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Peggy kuta
The girls, Jessica and Cheryl were great at answering my questions and were always quick to respond. Katie was great too. Then Jeremiah was by my side the whole way. Thank you all for handling my bankruptsy case. Would highly recommend this business to anyone. Thank you all.
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Mishka
After facing a daunting lawsuit and mounting debt, I felt overwhelmed until I discovered Steffens Law Offices. Their team, highly rated and recommended, guided me through the bankruptcy process with exceptional expertise and genuine care. The filing was successful, lifting a massive burden off my shoulders. I'm now able to enjoy life without the constant stress of debt. The staff was not only professional but also incredibly supportive and understanding. Choosing Steffens Law was one of the best decisions I've made during this tough time.
Read more
10 Jan, 2025 by Andrea romero
I was struggling with making payments and felt swamped by debt. After seeing how wonderfully Steffens Law Offices helped my boyfriend, I decided to seek their help too. Their team was incredibly supportive and guided me through the process of getting out of debt efficiently. Thanks to their expertise and kindness, I now see a bright future ahead, free from the overwhelming burden of debt. Their impact on my life has been profoundly positive, and I'm truly grateful for their assistance!
Read more
17 Sep, 2024 by Aaron kroeger
Hugh helped me through my custody case for my 2 year old son and did an amazing job. He took a huge amount of stress off my shoulders. Not only was he very professional but also very affordable and extremely responsive! Would recommend to any friend or family member
Read more
09 Mar, 2023 by Chad shaw
I have called a couple times and talk to him on the phone about some legal advice.and he was always honest with me he the best in Nebraska
Read more
02 Mar, 2023 by Roberto romero
Los mejores
Read more
26 Sep, 2024 by David majo
Best regards to this law office. I highly recommend whoever need anything about immigration and citizenship to go to this office.
Read more
18 Jul, 2024 by Daniel reyes
16 Jun, 2024 by David majo
29 Dec, 2024 by Tyler keup
Woody Bradford and his Son are both very professional and knowledgeable- would definitely recommend this firm to anyone for their reputation speaks for itself!
Read more
19 Aug, 2024 by Marsullous jones
The atmosphere, the encouragement from the environment you'll see
Read more
29 Feb, 2024 by Julie jones
Mr. Whitted was so kind and helpful as we negotiated a difficult situation after my uncle passed.
Read more
15 Nov, 2024 by Van argyrakis
05 Jun, 2024 by Angela lewman
I have had the pleasure of working with Angela Schmit since 2019. At that time, she owned her own practice and served as my business attorney. Later she joined Koukol Johnson Schmit & Milone where she assisted me with a very complex, nuanced and contentious civil litigation.
When Angela made the transition from private practice to Koukol Johnson Schmit & Milone, she and I had several conversations surrounding the transition and why she felt it was the right fit. Angela shared with me that she felt that the values of her new firm were very much aligned with her own, that she respected the existing partners of the firm greatly, and that the firm had very intelligent associates that were being trained up.
As my matter required additional support, I had the pleasure of working with both Michael Milone and Sara Larson from the firm. I quickly realized why Angela was so excited to work with this group. I found everyone that I worked with at Koukol Johnson Schmit & Milone to be highly professional. The attorneys that I interacted with were highly knowledgeable, intelligent and thoughtful in their approach to my case.
While the outcome of the case was not what I had hoped for, I do appreciate that everyone I worked with at this firm conducted themselves professionally and ethically even when I could not say the same for the opposition. I never once felt like I was being guided in a way that was contrary to my own ethics or moral compass, the team really listened to my concerns and passionately advocated for my interests. I do and will continue to highly recommend Angela Schmit, Michael Milone, Sara Larson and their team to anyone searching for effective, honest and ethical counsel.
Read more
16 May, 2024 by Jacob hausman
After spending 10 years building my business, I was ready to sell but had no idea where to start—until I met Wendy Wussow. I contacted the law office where my former attorney had retired, and they connected me with Wendy. From our first interaction, I was impressed by her responsiveness, honesty, and incredible work ethic.
Wendy began by asking what was most important to me and then followed up to ensure we were on the same page regarding details and costs, with no hidden fees. In fact, she charged me much less than the retainer, which was a pleasant surprise.
When I found a buyer—a publicly traded international company—Wendy went above and beyond. She worked tirelessly, often late into the evenings and over weekends, always ready to jump on a call or respond to an urgent email. Throughout the entire process, she looked out for my best interests and navigated the complex negotiations with skill and precision.
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.
