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Alexander Jerome Douglas, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in Rochester, NY with 850 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,67
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
5.0
6 Reviews
Google Maps
4.8
844 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Feb, 2025 by Nick capostagno
Google Maps
star star star star star
20 Jan, 2025 by Helaine rhem
My experience with William Mattar’s Law Firm was a great experience, because everyone worked together and answered my questions to the best of their ability when I couldn’t get in contact with the person that I was calling for, and I am so grateful that my case was successful and I want to thank everyone that is a part of William Mattar’s Law Firm, because everyone work hard and got the work done, sometimes there may be obstacles, that is out of their control, and it’s no fault William Mattar’s Law Firm, because they want to close the case just as much as we want it closed, so I want to thank everybody that is a of William Matter’s Law Firm, I am grateful to all of you for your hard work, and I want to give a special thank you to Randy Melber and Stacy. I will recommend others to William Mattar’s Law Firm without a doubt.
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15 Jan, 2025 by David grandberry
John did an amazing job and was very helpful and knowledgeable. He explained every detail of what he was doing as he proceeded with my case. Definitively a very knowledgeable and great person to work with
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David Lee Rasmussen, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 1 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
David was successful in representing our firm when we purchased a hospital that had been in bankruptcy. Complicated case that he stayed on until it was completed. Very good to work with.
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Robert Brian Gitlin, experienced Debt Collection, Real Estate attorney in Rochester, NY with 7 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
7 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
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22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
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13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
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Julia Jane Henrichs, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 7 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
7 Reviews
star star star star star
12 Oct, 2024 by Christopher wall
Hughes Matthews Legal Group from Rochester, New York is a good legal place to find attorneys for car accidents. They cover many different claims on injury and the whole legal process. They have many lawyers with extensive knowledge for any case.
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star star star star star
22 Jul, 2024 by Eunice krauss
Working with our attorney and his staff has been an easy and straight forward process. From the very initial phone call that my wife and I had with them, we felt assured that they were able to cover our needs. They addressed the details involved with our car accident case with ease and made sure we didn't miss any step along the way. I appreciate all of their hard work and I wouldn't hestiate to recommend this law firm to anyone who needs a car accident attorney!
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13 Mar, 2023 by David everett
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Michael J. Kieffer, experienced Business, Car Accident attorney in Rochester, NY with 3 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
3 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2020 by Rando gomini
Professional and very knowledgeable in his field.
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20 Jan, 2020 by Marc daniels
Incredibly helpful, understandable, responsive and knowledgeable. I highly recommend Paul Whittaker Burbank!
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01 Oct, 2017 by Lynnette
Amazing person. Great response times on any questions.
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Mark H Stein, experienced Debt Collection, Real Estate attorney in Rochester, NY with 120 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,51
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
120 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2024 by Mark hammond
Peter Rogers provided excellent representation for my personal injury case. Peter and his associates at Lacy Katzen, treated us with respect and kindness. Peter is very professional and has a record of success including my case.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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David D. Macknight, experienced Debt Collection, Real Estate attorney in Rochester, NY with 120 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,51
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
120 Reviews
star star star star star
08 Oct, 2024 by Mark hammond
Peter Rogers provided excellent representation for my personal injury case. Peter and his associates at Lacy Katzen, treated us with respect and kindness. Peter is very professional and has a record of success including my case.
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16 Aug, 2024 by Torii eley
Clair from this law firm was very rude and I don’t understand how she is working in law firm her communicating with her. Client is very disrespectful. I could barely get a word out because all she wanted to do was hear her voice. I was trying to get a breakdown and understanding of my payments and she wasn’t trying to hear anything that I had to say which I find is very rude and discriminating of my work situation and what I’m able to afford and payments at this time I do not recommend this law firm at all
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14 Aug, 2024 by Deborah cayetano
Professional, clear about the details, and respectful as an Elder Lawyer
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Vikram Singh Vilkhu, experienced Debt Collection, Foreclosure attorney in Rochester, NY with 76 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
34,46
star star star star star
4.5/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.4
74 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
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08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dileo
Michael was my lawyer In family court. He was professional and very knowledgeable. Always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner. Michael went above and beyond, would highly recommend!
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08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
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Paul L. Goldstein, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 109 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
30,70
star star star star star
4.6/5
Google Maps
4.6
109 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Dec, 2024 by Derrick spatorico
THE BEST!
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25 Nov, 2024 by Raeona cashae
My personal injury attorney was Anna Robbins for my car accident. She handled everything so professionally, she was very straightforward and kept me updated throughout the process. From handling medical bills to ensuring a timely and efficient case, she did an excellent job. If I need legal representation for bodily injury in the future, I am definitely going right back to Anna.
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18 Nov, 2024 by Marilyn specksgoor
Brett did a good job on my behalf. Make it easy for me,I didn't have to travel downtown to finalize my case.
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Steven Edward Feder, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 11 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
28,99
star star star star star
4.3/5
Google Maps
4.3
11 Reviews
star star star star star
14 Jul, 2023 by Tasha
Spoke with the lawyer for two seconds and he had a horrible attitude. No thx, I suggest people choose someone with better service skills for the amount of money they get payed.
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star star star star star
03 May, 2023 by Pat kendall
The legal process was smooth and uneventful of any problems!
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30 Aug, 2022 by Janet ennis
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Patricia A. Blair, experienced Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 74 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
26,25
star star star star star
4.4/5
Google Maps
4.4
74 Reviews
star star star star star
25 Nov, 2024 by Libbi martino
The service I received was so terrible I have filed an official attorney grievance with the 7th Judicial District as well as a complaint to the New York Bar Association. My attorney Alex Serles was grossly unprepared for my hearing and utterly incompetent. Even the judge and District Attorney were angry with his lack of preparedness for my case that morning. The judge was going to cancel the hearing as a result. Which would have been another hardship for me having come a long distance travel out-of-state. So instead, my attorney just threw me under the bus to get the hearing done that morning; even after the judge said he had no other option but to “sentence me with all punishments having nothing to go on”, based upon my attorney’s lack of preparedness and gross incompetence. The District Attorney also expressed her anger that Alex Serles had not even updated her on my case in preparation for my hearing. The Senior Management Partner (attorney) as well, was not at all caring nor compassionate regarding the gross negligence I received from my attorney Alex Serles. I cannot warn future clients enough to not hire this firm to represent you. It was an over $5500 thousand dollar expensive lesson for me to learn. “Buyers Beware!”!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by David mack
While working for Mr. Witmer in an investigative capacity as a N.Y. State license private investigator.... In the last 5 years, In criminal matters, I've worked on more acquittals with Mr. Witmer than any other lawyer who I currently work with.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
08 Jul, 2024 by Allison dileo
Michael was my lawyer In family court. He was professional and very knowledgeable. Always responded to my calls and emails in a timely manner. Michael went above and beyond, would highly recommend!
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Sandra Eckert, experienced Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 292 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
20,43
star star star star star
3.7/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
3.7
291 Reviews
star star star star star
15 Jan, 2025 by Ryan kaddah
Google Maps
star star star star star
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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Michael J. Beyma, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Christopher K. Werner, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Meghan Marie Lynch Abate, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Paul Stephen Groschadl, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Glenn Michael Fjermedal, experienced Debt Collection, Real Estate attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Carl Alfred Steinbrenner, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Robert Daniel Hooks, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Anthony Joseph Adiutori, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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John Kevin McAndrew, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Devin Lawton Palmer, experienced Debt Collection, Litigation attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Ellis Michael Oster, experienced Appeals, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Lori B. Green, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Joseph E. Mitchell, experienced Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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David P. Case, experienced Debt Collection, Foreclosure attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Jeffrey Wentworth Baker, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Michael S. Schnittman, experienced Debt Collection, Foreclosure attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Samuel Paul Merlo, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Rochester, NY with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. What is the likelihood of success in my case?
    Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes.
  4. 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.
  5. 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).
  6. 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.

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