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31 Dec, 2024 by Jamie fair
They helped me resolve a 2 year ordeal and I'm eternally grateful. Alan Prowser is the best.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Emerie casnel
Michael Thompson lacks empathy and is very rude ending calls and becoming aggressive on recorded calls. Terrible experience. Manipulated staff member that does not exceed expectations.
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15 Nov, 2024 by Tamara davis
Michael Thompson is very verbally combative when trying to call in for assistance. He decided to hang the phone in which I had to call back for no assistance. Poor customer service and quality care.
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02 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
The worst attorney you could hire I wouldn't even consider him an attorney. He's a con artist using the attorney privilege to take money from clients and never having any intentions of actually doing anything for them. His license was suspended in TN in 2023 for misappropriation of funds (stealing) and license in VA was suspended in 2024 for misconduct ( failure to not provide any services and lying about it) . He has another complaint against hin in TN that is pending.
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08 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Will not call you back and never answered phone messages. Been in jail for almost a year and he hasn’t made a plea to judge for dismissal after three years .
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25 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
This attorney represented me during my case.
I was very dissatisfied with his service.
Specifically the fact that he would not return phone calls (for weeks at a time) and made false promises.
I also found his assistant to be very rude and dishonest.
At one point, I witnessed his assistant pick-up and hang-up the phone on other clients to avoid taking their call.
I also witnessed Samuel White's assistant advising other clients that Mr. White was out of the office despite the fact he was sitting right beside her. I assume he uses this tactic as well to avoid clients.
Overall I was very dissatisfied and I would not recommend this attorney to anyone.
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19 Jun, 2024 by Highland country
04 Jun, 2024 by Jeff's detecting and variety channel
I highly recommend Regina Shepherd she always takes the time to meet face to face for a meeting upon request she is very informative and always takes the time to return your calls...she worked very hard on my case she is a great attorney
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15 Feb, 2024 by Tessa stines
08 May, 2014 by Anonymous
I retained Pam to represent me for an order of protection and a divorce filing. For both hearings she would not return calls or meet with me until one day prior and so was not well prepared for the case. When we did meet, she gave me a list of twenty or so documents to come up with by the very next day, in triplicate, which I was unable to do. When I emailed her documents she would frequently say she never received them and she showed up to court late and without any evidence. She would file things without consulting me so I never knew what was going on in my case. She suggested strategies that sounded good but then never followed through with them. She consistently responded to my voice mails and emails by emailing me with "so it sounds like you're saying…" and then following with the exact opposite of what I had said. I would not recommend this attorney.
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01 Oct, 2012 by T.j.
I hired Pamela ( she goes by Pam ) Spicer for my divorce, and to say the least, she was great. She returned my calls, she met with me when I needed to, she did what she said she was going to do, and her legal fee was reasonable. Aside from this, I was very satisfied with how my case turned out.
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14 May, 2011 by Kelly
I have hired Ms. Spicer to represent me in two different matters. The first was a divorce and she went above and beyond the call of duty. She was accessible all the time, she was very fair on her fee, and in the end my cae came out wonderful. I then hired her again on a child custody issue, and it went just as well. I would definitely recommend her to anyone.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Mark jones
Cornelius Bostick is an absolutely terrible attorney and should be disbarred immediately. I paid him over two thousand dollars to represent me in a child custody matter during the spring of last year. Prior to us having the first court hearing in September 2024 I constantly reached out to him to figure out what was the status of my case and he wouldn't respond back to me until days later. When we did speak on the phone he would always rush me off the phone as if he had more important matters that took precedence over my case. He also acted as if he never knew what was going on in regards to my case for example he was supposed to have my son's mother served with custody paperwork in the summer of 2024 however when I called him to find out whether or not she was served he was unsure. The only way I found out that the processer served her was because my son mother called me and stated that she had been served. I'm very displeased with his mediocre service, during my first court appearance he failed to prep me properly prior to court which caused the judge to become very irritated with me due to the fact I wasn't fully prepared for the questions that the judge was asking of me and because of him I was tardy for court simply because he gave me the wrong teams virtual link in which he acted as if it wasn't a big deal . It was so disappointing, and embarrassing to say the least that we had to stop the court proceedings so that he and I could go in a separate room to discuss why he didn't inform me of the questions the courts were asking me prior to court. While he and I was having a sidebar while court was being conducted I asked him how come you didn't prepare me for court his exact words to me was Well We Here Now! At that point I relived him of his duties instantly and hired a new attorney. Due to Bostick incompetence and lack of caring I would highly suggest not to hire him to represent you on any court related matter you would be better off saving your money and representing yourself. It appeared to me that he works for the other team and not you.
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12 Dec, 2024 by Isa ragland
I tried to contact this lawyer for over 2 weeks, and he never responded to my messages. I don't think you can trust him with your case.
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06 Aug, 2024 by Timothy n warren
05 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
Mark Edmonds has handled 2 cases for me, one estate and one civil. In both cases I found Mr. Edmonds to be very knowledgeable, easy to work with and pronoun settling my cases. I would highly recommend this attorney!
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07 Oct, 2019 by Anonymous
Scheduled meetings he didnt show up for, doesnt return phone calls or emails even after filing a complaint. Probate case has dragged on for over two years. Never remembers what was discussed previously so its time spent reviewing what was reviewed before.
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04 Sep, 2019 by Shannon
has handled several evictions for me and done an outstanding job every time.
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30 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
Mr. LaPorte was hired to protect two minor children in state custody. Mr. LaPorte failed to check on the minor children, investigate alligations that put the children's lives in danger. He did not have the children's best interest at hand. His services were mediocre at best.
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13 Oct, 2018 by Kathryn
He helped me so much with my case in getting my children back. He let me know everytime something happened and made sure I understood everything. Will be using him again soon.
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23 May, 2017 by Bill
I retained Mr. McLemore after speaking with several other attorneys. I hired him b/c of the fee he quoted me. I was well pleased with the result. Not only did he get my charges dismissed he also did my expungement. I would highly recommend him.
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05 Jan, 2016 by Anonymous
This so called attorney does not represent his clients to full potential. . Scams clients and does not return calls. One of worst decisions I have made was hiring this man to represent me he should be disbarred
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06 May, 2015 by Ray
I have known Kevin Jones over 38 years. My first experience was when I worked for CIT Finance and then for Ford Motor Credit. Kevin represented Ford Credit and CIT very well and could be depended on to expidite any necessary warrants and foll,ow through with the collection process. I reccomend him highly.
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12 Jan, 2010 by Anonymous
had an account turned over to this attorney, office staff very rude and not helpful. Office being paid monthly. Checks were being returned after 6 weeks of mailing to the office. Called to verify address correct address on the envelopes. Attorney placed a wage garnishment for 6 months for triple the amount of the payment. When you call to speak to someone, not one returns calls and not very helpful when you ask questions.
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23 Jan, 2025 by Donna hampton
Tara is awesome ...... They accommodate if situations come up unexpectedly always friendly and very helpful..
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09 Dec, 2024 by Hope marstiller
I have been working with them and with any law firm they are busy but I definitely would recommend them ! Tara is super sweet and always kept communication with me through whole process . Thank you guys for everything !!
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21 Nov, 2024 by Chadwick finchum
I agree as all the other people have stated that this law firm does not reach out to you, they are unethical, they lie and submit orders that are not true and bold face lie to you in court and also outside of court. For all the violations that they’ve committed a class action lawsuit should be committed to shut this firm down.
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01 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
This young couple from the West UNITED STATES, read an apartment review for Pearl flats. Which sold it as a safe place to call home. However after driving for days and spending over $2k in travel & moving expenses. They arrived at a building which was in the middle of a ghetto. They went inside talked to a leasing agent. When the young lady walked out to her car. She was both harassed & accosted. It was a 100% breach of contract. They were scared to death to move in. When the young couple called the police. They were told of shootings & it as a known gang area. Where this apartment complex was built. They never moved in. The other Leasing agent who admitted to being carjacking at gunpoint near there. Said that the criminals were not convicted,because they were under age. (She also told them, that the apt got rented.) Almost more than 7 to 8 months later, they get anytime from this law firm claiming they owe money for something they never got. Plus fees of almost $1k to collect these monies. Is this a joke? Law firms can do this kind of stuff? No wonder, they get such a bad reputation......TERRIBLE abuse of power! SHOCKING, this is called law?????.
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28 Jul, 2023 by Sharon
You do not want to hire these people even after you’ve paid what you owe, they’ll send you more bills for services that were not rendered, they will take you court you can plead your case, but you won’t win unless you kept extensive records and if you email them they won’t email you back not until after the fact
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24 Oct, 2021 by Anna
Knows right from wrong, and always honest. One of the most fearless women I’ve met.
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31 Jan, 2025 by Amber neal
Assisted my mother with her estate planning. There are a good number of children and grandchildren to factor in. Deborah was fabulous to work with. She was great with making my mother feel relaxed through the estate planning process and explaining everything in great detail. Crow staff and Deborah in particular were great about making sure everyone was on the same page and were particularly accommodating on arranging appointments at an office that was convenient for my mother.
Highly recommend them for estate planning!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Tim schoonover
Kyle Shannon was exceptional, highly professional, kind and explained the entire estate planning process in detail. In addition, the support staff at Crow Estate Planning provided excellent and timely communication throughout the process.
I highly recommend the services at Crow Estate Planning!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Shari cleveland
31 Jan, 2025 by Amber neal
Assisted my mother with her estate planning. There are a good number of children and grandchildren to factor in. Deborah was fabulous to work with. She was great with making my mother feel relaxed through the estate planning process and explaining everything in great detail. Crow staff and Deborah in particular were great about making sure everyone was on the same page and were particularly accommodating on arranging appointments at an office that was convenient for my mother.
Highly recommend them for estate planning!
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27 Dec, 2024 by Tim schoonover
Kyle Shannon was exceptional, highly professional, kind and explained the entire estate planning process in detail. In addition, the support staff at Crow Estate Planning provided excellent and timely communication throughout the process.
I highly recommend the services at Crow Estate Planning!
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16 Dec, 2024 by Shari cleveland
14 Oct, 2024 by Marius thomas
So bad he has to buy debt because his practice is as garbage as he his
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02 Jul, 2024 by Robert coles
Very rude and does not reply to emails or return phone calls. Attorneys hide behind their paralegals. Claims have been filed with the Tennessee Bar Association for unethical practices.
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01 Dec, 2023 by Brandon hodge
Owed less then a $1000 and now I owe three for for late payments in the middle of being laid off.
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05 May, 2024 by Miss brown
Can’t get a hold anyone
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24 Apr, 2024 by Glenda cox
02 Aug, 2023 by Dean atcheson
The team at this location are attentive and knowledgeable. They are very easy to work with and will follow-up with you when they say they will. They will give you all the information you need and make sure that you clearly understand what your options are, very professional.
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01 Sep, 2024 by Carrie
Save yourself time and money and choose another attorney. Grayson is lazy and unwilling to do the bare minimum. Seems like it’s time for her to retire if she’s not interested in doing her job.
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30 Oct, 2018 by Michael
Ms. Cannon was professional and straightforward after I hired her to help handle my HOA dispute. However, later, she did not do what she said she would do under what was covered under my legal plan. She chose to bail out of my case despite that she gave her word that she would, at least, take the initial steps to help me out.
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13 Aug, 2021 by Michelle white
Mr Sheldon was not able to comprehend anything he just asked the same thing over and over like it was the first time he asked the question. He I incapable of doing his job seems to be suffering from dementia or something. Do not use him!!!!!!
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12 Aug, 2021 by Kim hicks
I had a terrible experience there I had to explain the situation at least 10 times and I didn't feel like he understands anything you are saying to him, very incompetent
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12 Aug, 2021 by Walter radford
He seems to be senile and incompetent he forgets conversations and blanks out does not need to be a attorney
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27 Nov, 2024 by William ellis
26 Jul, 2024 by A k
Down right rude. Cynthia is unprofessional and needs an attitude adjustment.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Dennis elmore
27 Nov, 2024 by William ellis
26 Jul, 2024 by A k
Down right rude. Cynthia is unprofessional and needs an attitude adjustment.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Dennis elmore
07 Oct, 2023 by Mark
My wife and I engaged Steve Huret for a property dispute. He was recommended by his father-in-law, an attorney that we had high respect for. We paid $975 for the initial consultation with Mr. Huret. We were charged even for time spent going through reams of paper concerning liability protection for Mr. Huret. At that initial visit, we had the distinct impression that Mr. Huret's focus was on the money and not on helping us. Mr. Huret then asked for another $1000 check for a retainer, and he agreed to hold the $1000 check until he heard from us. We then asked him to let us try to resolve the dispute without incurring more legal fees since it was getting expensive at this point.
We were unsuccessful in resolving the property dispute on our own and so contacted “our attorney”, Steve Huret. Mr. Huret replied that he had taken on some other clients and was planning on doing some traveling. He said that since he had not deposited the thousand-dollar check that we wrote him, he felt under no obligation to represent us and declined to help us. So, sadly, after spending hours in his office and leaving $975 poorer, we were left to begin again the search for another attorney to help us. We felt "kicked to the curb" without even recommendations of another attorney. We received nothing of value for the time and money spent to Mr. Huret.
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18 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Do not use this attorney. Didn’t give feedback for what he charged us, I feel like we were completely taken advantage. He seemed very friendly but obviously a crook. Use someone that will fight harder for you and not just take your money like Mr. Huret
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16 Oct, 2023 by Anonymous
This guy will sue you, tell you to call to resolve, wont answer, then have the sheriff subpoena you. Guess that is why we have our day in court.
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19 Dec, 2024 by The doctor
I rarely ever write reviews. However, I feel compelled to inform others about the terrible experience I had with Paola Palazzolo West. She charged me an exorbitant amount of money for doing hardly anything to assist me. Not long after she was paid, I could rarely get in contact with her. She more often than not, ignored my emails. Her assistant, Cheryl, would sometimes respond to me. However, I could tell that she knew very little about that which she spoke. She would simply make up nonsensical things to try to placate me. Among the worst things they would do is bill me for things they did not do. (So, be sure to check your itemized statements if you decide to hire this attorney anyway.) They had to refund my money for falsely charging me for services they did not perform. And if this were not enough, while I was sitting in the office waiting to hire a new attorney after being Paola's client for about six months, Paola's assistant emailed me what appeared to be an old, doctored court filing. (I had been waiting quite some time for Paola to file this document. Having been deceived by her stating she would file the papers long before "she claimed" she had done so, I was finally fed up and decided to spend even more money hiring a new attorney.) In the email, her assistant indicated that the form had finally been filed with the court. However, as it turned out, the old, doctored-appearing document HAD NEVER EVEN BEEN FILED! It was a complete lie! I learned this from my new attorney.
In addition, while sitting in the office with my newly hired attorney this same day, she called opposing counsel in my case. As soon as my attorney mentioned that she was taking over the case from Paola, the opposing counsel went into a profanity-laced rage talking about Paola and her deceptive practices and how that he absolutely "can't stand that b...!"
Additionally, she had the humiliating gall to keep the balance of my money! And lest I forget to mention the following: her assistant, Cheryl, who is equally as dishonest as Paola, sent me a check for approximately 60.00, which I promptly tossed into the garbage. I have since heard from others that they had an opportunity to use Paola, but they refused to do so for a number of negative reasons.
Last, but certainly not least, they were most disrespectful. My title is "Dr." not "Mrs." Neither of them seemed capable of understanding the difference. Thus, they repeatedly referred to me as "Mrs." I often wondered if this was some catty female thing or if they both were simply a bit slow.
My advice to any and all prospective clients is to run, don't walk, away from this attorney! Otherwise, hire Paola at your own risk.
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04 Apr, 2024 by Huey lamb
Absolutely. No help. Lied point blank to my family about contacting me when they never did. They have no respect for citizens. I highly recommend all people in that office find a new job.
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04 Mar, 2024 by Howard miller
Called and left a voice mail over a week ago still no call back these a..holes are useless if they can't return a simple phone call
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17 Feb, 2024 by Maria west
31 Dec, 2021 by Keith peters
Should have atleast two working phone numbers. The number they have now does not work. Maybe should consider on getting new number or another number that works. Thanks
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03 Apr, 2024 by Obfuscous oddities
I’m not sure about the others in the firm, but if Jeff Jones is as helpful here as he is as county attorney then I wouldn’t waste your time. Very disappointed.
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14 Sep, 2024 by Karma
It was quite scary and hard for a 14-year old trans kid to face their rapist and not cry. The process was long and grueling but getting to meet my lawyer and judge before having to testify in front of a group of random people and to tell what he did to me made it much better. I don't think I could bare to do this ever again but the process was worth it.
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28 Aug, 2024 by Jason rudd
The feds need to come here asap totally ineffective. How are we fighting crime when they just let these criminals out without facing any consequences. I'm ashamed that I unfortunately live in this hell hole.
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03 Jun, 2024 by Dillon crone
My Rating is Zero!!! This office should be ashamed... It's a No Wonder these Criminals are Running the streets. 18 year old gets caught breaking into cars and gets a $1000 bond... I guarantee you he had his $100 to bond out.... Right back on the street!!! SMH...
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Debt Collection Lawyer Can Do for You
A debt collection lawyer helps individuals and businesses navigate legal matters related to debt collection. Whether you’re a creditor seeking to recover unpaid debts or a debtor facing aggressive collection actions, a debt collection lawyer can provide valuable assistance. These lawyers help creditors pursue legal action to collect overdue debts and ensure compliance with debt collection laws. On the debtor’s side, they help defend against unlawful collection practices, negotiate repayment plans, or file for bankruptcy if necessary.
If you’re dealing with a debt collection issue, a lawyer can ensure your rights are protected and work toward a resolution that aligns with your financial or business needs.
When Should I Hire a Debt Collection Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a debt collection lawyer if you are facing any of the following situations:
-
For Creditors:
- Unpaid debts: If you’re a creditor (such as a business or individual) with unpaid invoices, loans, or accounts receivable, a lawyer can help you pursue legal action to recover the debt.
- Debtor refuses to pay: When a debtor is unwilling or unable to make payments, a lawyer can assist with filing lawsuits, securing judgments, and enforcing those judgments to collect the debt.
- Negotiating repayment plans: If you’re willing to work with a debtor to arrange a payment plan, a lawyer can negotiate and draft a legally enforceable agreement.
- Legal representation in court: If a debtor disputes the debt or countersues, a lawyer can represent you in court and ensure your legal interests are protected.
- Securing liens or garnishments: A lawyer can help you secure liens on a debtor’s property or garnishments on their wages to recover the owed debt.
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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:
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For Creditors:
- Filing lawsuits: A lawyer can file a lawsuit against a debtor who has failed to pay what they owe. This includes preparing and submitting legal documents, representing you in court, and pursuing judgments.
- Negotiating settlements: If the debtor is willing to settle, the lawyer can negotiate a payment arrangement or reduced settlement that ensures you recover some or all of the debt.
- Securing judgments and enforcement: After obtaining a court judgment, a lawyer can help enforce it through methods like wage garnishment, bank levies, or property liens.
- Reviewing contracts and agreements: A lawyer can review your contracts and lending agreements to ensure that they comply with the law and are enforceable if a debtor defaults.
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For Debtors:
- Defending against debt collection lawsuits: If you’re being sued by a creditor, a lawyer can challenge the lawsuit, dispute the debt’s validity, or negotiate a more favorable settlement.
- Stopping harassment: If debt collectors are using unlawful practices to collect a debt (such as threatening you or contacting you excessively), a lawyer can intervene and protect your rights.
- Negotiating debt relief: A lawyer can negotiate with creditors to reduce the total amount of debt you owe or develop a manageable payment plan that suits your financial situation.
- Disputing inaccurate debts: If a debt is not valid, a lawyer can help you gather evidence to dispute the claim and prevent further collection actions.
- Filing for bankruptcy: If your debts are overwhelming, a lawyer can advise you on whether filing for bankruptcy is the best option and help you through the process.
How Are Debt Collection Lawyers Paid?
Debt collection lawyers typically charge for their services in different ways depending on the complexity of the case and whether they represent a creditor or debtor. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many debt collection lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and the case’s complexity. Hourly fees are common when the lawyer is representing either party in litigation or negotiation.
- Contingency fee: For creditors, some lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if they successfully recover the debt. Their fee is typically a percentage of the recovered amount, usually ranging from 20% to 40%.
- Flat fee: For specific services, such as reviewing a contract, drafting a demand letter, or defending a straightforward debt collection lawsuit, a lawyer may charge a flat fee.
- Retainer: For larger or ongoing cases, a lawyer may require a retainer fee ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the expected duration.
It’s important to discuss fees with your lawyer during the initial consultation and understand the total cost of their services before proceeding with your case.
How Much Does a Debt Collection Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a debt collection lawyer depends on whether you are a creditor or debtor, the complexity of the case, and the lawyer’s experience. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Most debt collection lawyers charge between $150 and $500 per hour. Complex cases involving litigation or large amounts of money may result in higher legal fees.
- Contingency fees: If the lawyer works on a contingency basis, they typically charge between 20% and 40% of the recovered amount. For example, if you recover $10,000 and the contingency fee is 30%, the lawyer would take $3,000.
- Flat fees: For simpler services like drafting a demand letter or responding to a debt collection lawsuit, flat fees may range from $500 to $2,500, depending on the work required.
- Retainers: For larger or ongoing cases, a lawyer may require a retainer fee ranging from $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the expected duration.
Always ask for a detailed cost estimate during your consultation to avoid surprises and ensure that the services fit your budget.
Top Questions to Ask a Debt Collection Lawyer
Before hiring a debt collection lawyer, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they have the experience and expertise to handle your case. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with debt collection cases?
Make sure the lawyer has experience handling cases similar to yours, whether you’re a creditor or debtor. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, on a contingency fee basis, or a flat fee, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the potential outcomes. -
How long will the process take?
Debt collection cases can take time, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to last, from filing the claim to recovering the debt or resolving the dispute. -
What are my legal rights?
Ask the lawyer to explain your rights as a creditor or debtor, including protections under laws like the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA). -
Will you personally handle my case?
In larger firms, junior attorneys or paralegals may handle parts of the case. Make sure you know who will be managing your case.
How to Check the Credibility of a Debt Collection Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable debt collection lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and track record:
- Verify their bar status: Check with your state bar association to confirm that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no history of disciplinary actions.
- Look for debt collection experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in debt collection law and have successfully handled cases like yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for client reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about the lawyer’s professionalism and ability to handle debt collection cases.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on debt collection matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for certifications or memberships in organizations like the National Creditors Bar Association (NCBA) or other relevant associations that focus on debt collection law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a debt collection lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
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For Creditors:
- List of outstanding debts: Bring a detailed list of the debts owed to you or your business, including invoices, contracts, or other supporting documentation.
- Previous communication with the debtor: Provide copies of any emails, letters, or phone call logs showing attempts to collect the debt.
- Contracts or agreements: Bring any contracts or agreements related to the debt, as they may be critical in proving your case.
- Judgment information (if applicable): If you’ve already obtained a court judgment against the debtor, bring the judgment documents and any enforcement attempts.
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For Debtors:
- Debt collection letters or notices: Bring any correspondence from creditors or collection agencies, including demand letters and collection notices.
- Payment records: Provide proof of any payments made toward the debt, including receipts, canceled checks, or bank statements.
- Debt validation or dispute documentation: If you’ve disputed the debt or requested validation, bring copies of the dispute letters and the creditor’s response.
- Legal summons or lawsuit documentation: If you’re facing a lawsuit, bring the court summons, complaint, and any legal documents related to the case.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best legal advice tailored to your needs.
