Lawyers map
>93
experienced lawyers
Filter by
07 Nov, 2024 by Linda williams
We retained Kristen to assist with my sister's divorce. She was informative as to the options open to us. She prepared and submitted court documents in a timely manner. Any questions that arose during the process were addressed. Her fee was reasonable. I would highly recommend retaining Kristen for your legal needs.
Read more
05 Nov, 2024 by Terina dallas
Kristen is absolutely amazing! I did not have the best of circumstances at that time and it was used against me. Kristen saw it for what it was and helped me fight for the truth. She was straightforward and honest about possible outcomes. She is strategic in her approach and pushed back at all the right times. The compassion Kristen showed while helping me fight my battle is irreplaceable and I had an amazing ending to my case! Should I ever need it, I 100% would work with Kristen again!
Read more
07 Aug, 2024 by Karra krug
I am grateful for Kristen and her services. Kristen represented my family cases for approximately 4 years. The overall case is complex needing representation with several components multiple times. Kristen was the 4th attorney that I had. The first was for the divorce; I wish I knew about Kristen then. I would have retained her immediately and likely never had to go through what I did. Kristen was up against a 'shark' of an attorney, who represented my ex. Kristen handled everything with grace and tact. There where moments when she presented the ugly truth to me in a kind way. Her knowledge and professionalism is unmatched. The only reason that I have new representation is because I moved across the country. She provided me with guidance to transfer my case. She also has great communication. I never felt that I was left hanging and wondering.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by James tusha
I can’t thank Feldman Royle enough for their outstanding work on my case. From my very first meeting with Bret Royle and David Ernest Ahl, I knew I was in excellent hands. They took the time to listen, reassure me, and thoroughly walk me through each step of the process.
Throughout the entire ordeal, the team was incredibly organized, responsive, and supportive—always keeping me informed without overwhelming me with unnecessary details. Their dedication and expertise ultimately led to a successful resolution of my case, and I’m grateful beyond words.
If you’re looking for lawyers who genuinely care, are highly knowledgeable, and will fight tirelessly for you, I highly recommend the Feldman Royle team. Their professionalism and compassion set them apart, and they truly are the gold standard in legal defense.
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Jessica collins
I've used Tracy in the past and she was amazing! So when I needed her help again, I did not hesitate to contact her office. Both Tracy and her paralegal, Joelle are knowledgeable, thorough, patient, and extremely helpful. Tracy genuinely cares about her clients and I will forever be grateful for her legal advice and support.
Read more
14 Dec, 2024 by Gladis garcia
28 Nov, 2024 by Michael harding
They didn't even give me a callback. I left a message months ago requesting they review a case covered by my employer's legal plan.
Avoid.
Read more
06 Nov, 2024 by Randee pena ribon
I am extremely grateful with Christy Thompson and her legal team. Without a doubt, they will help you understand the complexities of a personal injury case and will work hard to ensure you receive the best possible outcome.
Read more
30 Oct, 2024 by Edens holistic connection
Attorney Lamb was quite professional, and gave very good advice concerning my situation.
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Clara kent
07 Aug, 2024 by Ashley vu
21 May, 2024 by Colin
Bruce Brown is one of the best attorneys in Arizona. He is excellent in the courtroom and he has won all my cases. Furthermore he got me $28,000 in attorneys fees. Now my entire family uses Bruce.
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Jewan singh
Excellent services always available to answer my question and concerns. I can't thank him enough for all the hard work.
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Radha singh
Really good support. Knowledgeable, able to understand my personal situation well and quickly and provide guidance
Read more
11 Jan, 2025 by Sedaine 67
They are very professional, amazing with communication. I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND going to them for your legal needs. If I could give them more than 5 stars I would!
Read more
11 Sep, 2024 by Veronique
The death of my mother was very hard in many ways, but the loss of my stepfather/ Dad of 30yrs was devastating to say the least. I truly thought nothing could be worse. Then my step siblings and his ex-wife decided to try to make me and my nephew into thief's and horrible people.
I never would have believed that the court's would have allowed this whole thing to go as far as it did. Allegations and blatant lies, not proof, but it did.
If it hadn't been for Davis and Doug I honestly think they might have gotten away with it, since I'm a step daughter, FYI: Stepdaughter I found to be something of a "bad thing" automatically.
Thank you for listening and fighting for us. Thank you for not allowing my dad to be misrepresented as well, even though that was a byproduct, I know he would be thankful as well.
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Patty
Mr. Bauer is handling my brother's estate and he is quick to return calls, answer questions and assure us things are moving forward in settling the estate. Very pleased with his professionalism and great attitude!
Read more
10 Sep, 2024 by Anonymous
Davis did great in my opinion. Was quick to answer and address anything that was needed or asked of him.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Nomin t
I am so happy with Kelly law Team. Especially Mr. Kelly for taking his time and talking and listening to me firsthand.
Jordan and Sophie and Kayla. Every one was so patient and kind with me. So professional, always there when I call. I cannot say thank you enough for these wonderful people who helped me when I needed the most.
Thank you ladies you are the best, I would 💯 recommend. Trust me they know what they are doing.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Alicia vozza
Kelly Law Team, John Kelly and Trent, my paralegal were great throughout my entire process. I had many minute details involved in my case and they made sure everything was taken care of for me. They fought to get me amount that I felt my case was worth. Trent communicated with me continuously and it made me feel a great amount of transparency. I had no idea what I was getting into with a large car accident but they made everything easy.
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Janet d.
Clifford Frisbee and his staff were top notch in experience, understanding of the law, and communication. I truly appreciate their responsiveness and guidance throughout the legal process. The team did an excellent job of keeping me up to speed on progress and next steps. Highly recommend this group to anyone looking for legal advice and representation. 5 Stars.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Nomin t
I am so happy with Kelly law Team. Especially Mr. Kelly for taking his time and talking and listening to me firsthand.
Jordan and Sophie and Kayla. Every one was so patient and kind with me. So professional, always there when I call. I cannot say thank you enough for these wonderful people who helped me when I needed the most.
Thank you ladies you are the best, I would 💯 recommend. Trust me they know what they are doing.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Alicia vozza
Kelly Law Team, John Kelly and Trent, my paralegal were great throughout my entire process. I had many minute details involved in my case and they made sure everything was taken care of for me. They fought to get me amount that I felt my case was worth. Trent communicated with me continuously and it made me feel a great amount of transparency. I had no idea what I was getting into with a large car accident but they made everything easy.
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Janet d.
Clifford Frisbee and his staff were top notch in experience, understanding of the law, and communication. I truly appreciate their responsiveness and guidance throughout the legal process. The team did an excellent job of keeping me up to speed on progress and next steps. Highly recommend this group to anyone looking for legal advice and representation. 5 Stars.
Read more
05 May, 2015 by Richard
Steve did a very good job for me. He kept me up to date on everything and am very happy with the way he handled my case. You can't go wrong with him as you lawyer.
Read more
21 Feb, 2015 by David
I only knew him for a short time, but Steven Davis helped me significantly allowing me to get on with my life. I'm glad to have known him.
Read more
21 Feb, 2015 by Brandon
I was very pleased with the service I received from Steve Davis. He was very thorough in his explanation of my rights, choices, and possible consequences. I would definetly recommend his services to others.
Read more
08 May, 2013 by Anonymous
I've worked with several attorneys throughout the years. Shortly after hiring Mr. Rutila to handle a case related to a commercial lease dispute, I decided to consolidate all my legal matters under his care. The reason is simple. Mr. Rutila is the most thorough and conscientious attorney I've ever worked with. He is a dedicated professional who genuinely has his clients best interest in mind at all times. Always going the extra mile and displaying the patience and understanding for what my specific needs are, Mr. Rutila has been a pleasure to work with during some very challenging times. In short, he has made my life much easier knowing that the multitude of legal issues I'm facing are completely under control. I give my highest recommendation to Mr. Rutila and only wish more attorneys operated at his level - unless, of course, they are opposing counsel.
Read more
23 Jul, 2008 by Anonymous
Augustus Shaw & Shaw & Lines performed first rate work for my Association. Mr. Shaw is honest and a good person. I would highly recommend him.
Read more
09 Sep, 2014 by Robert
Mr. Brechner accepted my case and handled it with unquestionable effectiveness. His partner Mr. Arboleda is also someone I would recommend and found them both to be exactly what a client could hope for from an attorney. Hiring Mr. Brechner led to an outcome that was greater than I had expected. Because of the complexity of the kind of cases Mr. Brechner handles I would advise anyone that it is money well spent when hiring him. If you are considering not hiring an attorney for a case such as Mr. Brechner handles, your decision could cost you a lot more. Be prepared to supply a lot of financial information. it will be a lot of work on your part to get this information, but don't avoid doing it. The process is very involved but you will come out so much better from his services.
Read more
20 Jan, 2025 by Jacqueline bosque-diaz
After many years of procrastinating our trust, we finally called Paula. During our on boarding call she was very patient with our questions and concerns. She made the process very simple to understand, giving us some peace during a very overwhelming process.
Highly recommend her and her team!
Read more
14 Jan, 2025 by Catherine michl
Paula updated our trust as a restatement of what had been originally prepared by another firm. She took the time to answer all of our questions and also provided answers to common questions that we hadn’t thought of ourselves. She was both professional and personable and we plan to continue to use her to keep our trust up to date.
Read more
19 Dec, 2024 by Michael williams
I must first apologize for submitting my review so late. However, I must express how excellent the service we received from Paula Hannah's law firm was. Paula and her team are truly outstanding. From our first contact, Paula made the process easy for us with her detailed yet friendly approach, making everything much more manageable.
Our first meeting, conducted via Zoom, was highly informative. Paula guided us in achieving our goals, helping us clearly understand what we needed to do. I highly recommend Paula's services if you seek someone knowledgeable, responsive, and pleasant throughout the journey.
She is a true professional and a fantastic representative of her craft.
Michael & Gladysbell Williams
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Cori e.
I hired the firm to pursue action with my HOA. They did an excellent job of representing me. Justin Fouts is a great attorney and I recommend him if you need legal counsel.
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by Tyler chang
Absolutely amazing experience with David on a brief phone consultation. This firm is one of the few, if not the only one that gives free consultations if you just want quick legal advice.
I didn't know how thorough he would be due to the consultation being free, but it was better than any consultation I've used in the past!!
Incredibly friendly guy and easy to talk to. I will definitely use this firm for any future needs.
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Eric naddy
07 Nov, 2017 by Steven
I can't begin to say how much Don and Yash came through in the clutch! It's never fun having to go to court against your landlord, but these 2 backed me up every step of the way. I felt completely at ease with Don taking over during the trial and everything worked out in the end. I would highly recommend Don and his entire firm when dealing with landlord-tenant issues.
Read more
27 Jul, 2015 by Anonymous
Only one thing, he thought my court time was 2:30 and it was 2 pm. Freaked me out but, he got there on time. Friendly and easy to talk too. Yes, i'll recommend him to other people and have.
Read more
05 Jun, 2015 by Amy
Don was an enormous help! He was on top of everything. He always kept me informed and handled everything effortlessly. Thank you Don for lifting such a weight off my shoulders.
Read more
05 Feb, 2025 by Silvia escalante
De acuerdo a mi experiencia con el Sr. Rascon. Agradezco profundamente con el profesionalismo y humanidad que manejó mi caso hasta el final exitosamente y está de mi parte altamente recomendado y confiable. Muchas gracias señor Rascon.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by William smith
Great attorney. Highly recommend.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jonathan cox
05 Feb, 2025 by Silvia escalante
De acuerdo a mi experiencia con el Sr. Rascon. Agradezco profundamente con el profesionalismo y humanidad que manejó mi caso hasta el final exitosamente y está de mi parte altamente recomendado y confiable. Muchas gracias señor Rascon.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by William smith
Great attorney. Highly recommend.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jonathan cox
05 Feb, 2025 by Silvia escalante
De acuerdo a mi experiencia con el Sr. Rascon. Agradezco profundamente con el profesionalismo y humanidad que manejó mi caso hasta el final exitosamente y está de mi parte altamente recomendado y confiable. Muchas gracias señor Rascon.
Read more
28 Jan, 2025 by William smith
Great attorney. Highly recommend.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jonathan cox
17 Jan, 2025 by Nomin t
I am so happy with Kelly law Team. Especially Mr. Kelly for taking his time and talking and listening to me firsthand.
Jordan and Sophie and Kayla. Every one was so patient and kind with me. So professional, always there when I call. I cannot say thank you enough for these wonderful people who helped me when I needed the most.
Thank you ladies you are the best, I would 💯 recommend. Trust me they know what they are doing.
Read more
17 Jan, 2025 by Alicia vozza
Kelly Law Team, John Kelly and Trent, my paralegal were great throughout my entire process. I had many minute details involved in my case and they made sure everything was taken care of for me. They fought to get me amount that I felt my case was worth. Trent communicated with me continuously and it made me feel a great amount of transparency. I had no idea what I was getting into with a large car accident but they made everything easy.
Read more
13 Jan, 2025 by Janet d.
Clifford Frisbee and his staff were top notch in experience, understanding of the law, and communication. I truly appreciate their responsiveness and guidance throughout the legal process. The team did an excellent job of keeping me up to speed on progress and next steps. Highly recommend this group to anyone looking for legal advice and representation. 5 Stars.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Evan elliott
Brian is professional and has a vast knowledge of the legal system. He and his team are clearly dedicated to their practice.
Read more
19 Nov, 2024 by Calvin matin
Brian did an absolutely amazing job handling my case. The odds were definitely stacked against me regarding the outcome for my DUI but Brian was able to land the best possible outcome, and instead of me being charged with a DUI he was able to get it dropped and have the court rule in my favor. He was extremely professional and very communicative regarding my case. 10/10 I would recommend Brian to anybody fighting a DUI case!
Read more
07 Nov, 2024 by John parpheniuk
Brian is the best. Very professional and knowledgeable of the law in Arizona. He gets results and is always available.
Read more
22 Jan, 2019 by Jonah
Michael took time out of his busy day to make room for me right away drafted a letter and genuinely cared about my situation.
Read more
17 Jul, 2018 by Jarrett
Michael helped me get my earnest money back 21 days after a home inspection was done on the house I was going to purchase! I thought I was not going to get anything. But a letter and advice from Michael was just what I needed! Hire him he is GREAT!!!
Read more
26 Mar, 2014 by Jason
Anyone looking for a collection attorney who knows the ins and outs of collecting judgments, needs to contact Michael J Fuller. He is very professional, has 30 plus years experience and does just what he says he will do.
Collecting on a judgment from some one who does not wish to pay is challenging in and on it's own. Having Michael Fuller assist you makes it that much better. His website states that the goal is to get the person to go to bed at night with you on their mind and wake up with you on their mind and he accomplished just that.
It is important to note that it is a process and can be a lengthy one at that. Having the patience and the fortitude will always achieve results.
Michael went above and beyond to get the judgment debtor backed into a corner so that his only options were to pay. I cannot thank him enough for all of his hard work and his calm demeanor throughout the whole process.
Anyone needing to collect a debt, be sure to give him a call and set an appointment. Collecting a percentage of a debt owed is much better than collecting nothing on a debt owed.
Read more
06 Jan, 2024 by Kelly goodnow
Going Ivy is amazing! Erin is so supportive, and really cares about all her students! Her tutoring worked so well, and I got into all my top schools!!! I highly recommend for others!!!
Read more
14 Jul, 2022 by Brody goodnow
Amazing
Read more
17 Dec, 2021 by Sheela sethuraman
It is an honor to provide a review for Erin Goodnow and her GoingIvy service! What makes Erin unique is that she truly listens to the student and understands what their aspirations and interests are. Then she helps them present the best version of themselves. She has remarkable insights and truly sees this process as a partnership - with the entire family. She helped my daughter identify which aspects of her activities to highlight and how to tell her story in a unique voice. She has a very calming and soothing disposition which worked perfectly with my daughter's personality. She would respond to emails and drafts within 12 hours, sometimes even sooner. We would have been lost without her. And I am proud to say that without any 'hooks' my daughter got into her first choice - an HYPSM college. We will be back again for our second daughter. Can't imagine going through this journey without Erin by our side!
Read more
06 Jan, 2022 by Shane
Mr. Zimmerman is very knowledgeable and effective. Did a great job representing me and my legal rights.
Read more
03 Jan, 2025 by Steve moses
Taylor J. Gustafson was referred to me through a different firm who wasn’t able to take on my Commercial Lease Negotiation and I am so thankful for them matching me with Taylor. Taylor was easy to talk to, diligent in his communication, superb team player and an effective negotiator resulting in a great outcome for my new start up company, Swysh Den Basketball. I highly recommend Taylor and the whole firm at May, Potenza, Baran & Gillespie, P.C. and appreciate them for taking me on as a Client and providing a high quality service.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by Mimas beauty college
I worked with Taylor Gustafson for my lease negotiation, he made tons of edits that the landlord accepted. Only i provisions were not accepted out of like 20ish or so. That's an amazing acceptance rate of terms in my opinion. Helped me realize the terms that were not favorable for me. I, 1000% recommend this lawfirm and Taylor. I'll be giving his information to all yhe students in my school.
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Tyler w.
06 Sep, 2015 by Sally lidinsky
I hired Adam to assist us with a significant business transaction. Several things stood out about Adam. I was impressed by how thorough he was. His responsiveness was lightning-quick in a fast moving situation. I felt like we were his first-priority – Adam even rearranged his schedule to accommodate us. His advice and work were excellent. His efforts helped us achieve a fast and favorable closing.
Read more
13 Dec, 2024 by Craig lambert
We searched for quite a while to find someone who was very experienced, client friendly, knowledgeable, and willing to work with us. Lisa and her staff exceeded our expectations and was great to work with. We wouldn’t hesitate to recommend her in the future.
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Lyndsi sherman okh
David Uffens was great! He helped answer all of our questions and was really easy to work with. Highly recommend him for your legal needs!!
Read more
06 Dec, 2024 by Leila ali-akbarian
I own and operate a small primary practice in Tucson. Lisa Paine has been our lawyer for the past 5-6 years, and she has been remarkable. She is personable, timely, and has done a wonderful job including helping us establish our LLC, developing business
and consulting contracts, and other various legal needs we have over the years. She is a gem to work with. I highly recommend her for that service. Additionally, my husband and I hired her to complete our will and trust. She helped us navigate difficult decisions and created a very important document that will protect our family in the future. I also highly recommend Lisa for estate planning. Her price point is fair as well.
Read more
16 Nov, 2024 by Denis wolowiecki
I was in need of an experienced attorney to advise and support me following an unexpected job loss. I felt seriously wronged - with impacts on both my reputation and my income. I received several recommendations from professional colleagues and also did my own research, speaking to four attorneys in the process. By far, Chris Houk and Isa Ramirez at Houk Law were my top choice. Chris gave me excellent and constructive advice from the outset, he took the case, was explanatory with his recommendations, and he negotiated a positive outcome. Isa provided timely, well-informed, and professional support with the administrative details. Her follow-through was excellent. Thank you to both Chris and Isa. I appreciate your help.
Read more
21 Aug, 2024 by J p
I am in a difficult situation with an employer i have been employed by for almost 2 decades. They were awesome until l recently had more health issues and tried at every opportunity to punish me for it even in violation of the law. Chris really helped me understand my options. Knowing my rights and his understanding of the law has helped ease some of the stress from disability discrimination and a hostile work environment. Thank you Chris.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Karen j nechville
25 Jun, 2024 by Miss jordan
Seems like a reputable law firm with good reviews, however the staff hired is a direct reflection of the company, and their current front desk receptionist Kayla Bates came to my place over the weekend in my parking lot smoking weed and threatening to fight me and asking me if I want to come downstairs and get beat up over a man. A woman she knows is pregnant. What type of professionalism is that? I called and spoke to the executive team Holly and Tammy and was assured they would address the issue with said staff.
Read more
08 May, 2024 by Karen j nechville
03 May, 2024 by Michael navarro
Very helpful I'm so great full for all there help!
Read more
04 Nov, 2024 by Jeff johnson
They lie about taking sepsis cases (septic shock deaths in this case). The first trip to the hospital in February my wife contacted staph and it turned sepsis while in there that alone is on the hospital. Then 6 months later she ended up back in the hospital for suspected infection due to her CRP and ESR both being well over 100 and she had a history of infections like staph, Osteomyelitis, pseudomonas all in that 6 month period but the hospital didn't run a thorough battery of tests and the issue that put her in the hospital turned sepsis then she went into septic shock and died due to not running enough tests to find the infection that started all this.The hospital didn't even take her off the long term IV antibiotic to do an accurate blood culture and antibiotics will cause a false negative for bacterial infections.
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Jada warrell
John and Bill took my case with the upmost professionalism and attentiveness to every detail. I will definitely be using them again if I need any legal help in the future.
Read more
22 May, 2024 by Landon wagner
John Ager is very professional and attentive. He is active and always reliable. A caring individual that I will always respect.
Read more
29 Apr, 2024 by Cori e.
I hired the firm to pursue action with my HOA. They did an excellent job of representing me. Justin Fouts is a great attorney and I recommend him if you need legal counsel.
Read more
23 Apr, 2024 by Tyler chang
Absolutely amazing experience with David on a brief phone consultation. This firm is one of the few, if not the only one that gives free consultations if you just want quick legal advice.
I didn't know how thorough he would be due to the consultation being free, but it was better than any consultation I've used in the past!!
Incredibly friendly guy and easy to talk to. I will definitely use this firm for any future needs.
Read more
05 Feb, 2024 by Eric naddy
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.
