Lawyers map
>3.1k
experienced lawyers
Filter by
07 Dec, 2023 by Joshua b
Took my money. Took my info. Vanished.
Now after 4 months and threats of bad reviews, she replied and promised to finish case. Vanished again.
Read more
30 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I hired Rogena the beginning of February to file my bankruptcy case and my case is not filed! I did everything myself basically so I don’t understand the delay. She never responds to my email, scheduled calls never go happened, and her assistant always say she not unavailable. I wish I would have never trusted her to take my case!
Read more
01 Nov, 2021 by Anonymous
Paid the fees as quoted by cash and money order and after that she never responded to calls or emails. I filled out the information form as requested but my case was never filed. Now the credit card companies have discharged by debts and the IRS wants to collect from me. I didn't have money then and I have less money now. She never performed the job she was hired and paid for.
Read more
27 May, 2024 by Kelly jones
International "legal giant" Holland Knight has continuously refused to provide my legal files while abetting Alex "Sandy Hook" Jones's ongoing conspiracy with their former law partner Eric Taube whom they continued to advertise as a "trusted advisor" while having transcripts of Taube's inconsistent sworn statements/perjury in the hearing on my Motion to Disqualify in in U.S. Bankruptcy Court (Tex. W. D. Bank. 20-10118) when he appeared directly adverse to my interests (while concurrently representing me in ravis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-07-000618), which he directly countermanded when impeached in Travis Co. TX Case No. D-1-GN-18-001610, admitting that he did represent me. This fraud is not just bad for me, but it involves property that Taube conspiratorially formed in breaches of duty to me and to the entities he advised me to form, one of which he represented (without waiver or disclosure of conflict of interest (Free Speech Systems, LLC)) with Alex Jones, David Jones, and Carol Jones, whose tortious interference, fiduciary breaches, fraudulent transfers and fraud have been ongoing for over ten years. Holland Knight is based in the UK and its intentional bad acts of its and its Deputy Counsel's actual knowledge are contributory to alleged ongoing bankruptcy fraud in Tex. S. D. Bank. 22-33543. Contact me, FBI, DOJ, - Kelly Morales P/K/A Kelly Jones. I would not say these things about a massive international law firm if I could not prove it (very easily). Texas AG, Holland Knight has abetted the alleged falsification of government documents of its knowledge and fraud on the US Bankruptcy Court. Please contact me and please pursue all necessary temporary and permanent iinjunctive relieve to protect Texans from Holland Knight. The property that has been continuously defrauded of me and of the entities in which I hold interest has constituted hundreds of millions of dollars made without authority by copyright and trademark infringement, at best (and alleged copyright counterfeit, among other things.)
Read more
25 Aug, 2023 by Gio guzman
This Attorney Neil Meinzer that works at this firm . Is a complete jerk. And unprofessional. He laughed in my face after driving three times to his office from Houston. To collect a settlement check . He abused his power as attorney and humiliated me . I will be filing a complaint with the bar . I don’t recommend this firm.
Read more
18 Oct, 2018 by Shawn bainum
Beware! HOA's (KPM) Enforcer. They send out threatening letters, charge ridiculous fees and threaten legal action to take you home or charge you 200.00 a day for non compliance. But when you call them to email a requested form in they can't give you an EMAIL address because their email is not "reliable"? What legitimate company doesn't have email or a website? But they have a 40 year old fax machine!
Read more
25 Feb, 2024 by Zainab atiba
02 Oct, 2024 by Joseph banks
11 May, 2023 by Anonymous
Matthew was not responsive throughout the process. He said it would be $1K to help me. 5 weeks after paying him I still had no information on next steps, he kept saying he would write a letter. After 5 weeks of no action I asked for my money back and he kept $250 due to a phone call we had. I would not recommend him.
Read more
30 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
We hired Matt over 2 yrs ago to handle a bad real estate transaction. He said it shouldn't take more then 6 months to settle. Here we are 2 yrs and 2 months later nothing settled and haven't been able to get him to respond to emails, phone calls or text since Aug (almost 4 months).
Read more
05 Nov, 2018 by Anonymous
Engaged Mr. Cowart for a title search three years ago. Have have next to no response from him. All he was asked was to keep us informed on progress. We even gave him he addresses of all parties involved. He has not answered emails or text requests. His phone is always full
Read more
21 Sep, 2023 by Jean
She is rude and does not want to work With you when you’re trying to make arrangements for a payment. Very rude and disrespectful. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME!
Read more
01 Oct, 2021 by Anonymous
Extremely unprofessional and very rude. From the minute you speak with her she is absolutely disrespectful and not helpful at all. No use in trying to work with her. Has no idea what she is talking about.
Read more
21 Apr, 2017 by Anonymous
This attorney doesn't know anything pertaining to Texas debt collection law as well as knows nothing about Texas law in general...well unless she pulls her books out from college...she prefers to "wing it through and cross your fingers that it goes correctly rather than taking the appropriate route". She has no "manager/boss" qualities and if she does try to use them it's only at her convenience. Not only is she just a terrible lawyer, her mindset is to wait until last minute to file court documents and stay super late the last day of the month, when you've had all month to get it together....on top of that...if you do everything her way, you're fine but if you have a life outside of work hours then she will have fire coming out of her eyeballs because she just expects you to stay late since she is even though you have already completed your work load...useless person and giving the title to her as "attorney" is an embarrassment...she needs to go back to school and really read
Read more
24 Jul, 2021 by Kaye
This attorney, if that's what they call him these days, is a joke. He scams people out their money and doesn't render services at all. Please do your research on this man before giving him your business. He doesn't have a profile pic, an actual business location, a legal website to make payments and so many negative remakes against him. What attorney you know accepts payments through Cash app?? Not one I know but this one, another flag. Beware and don't throw your money away!!
Read more
17 Sep, 2020 by Sheila
This Attorney called me and offered his services as my Attorney asked me for a retainer fee Of 1250 on July 3, 2020 and said he would put his name down as my attorney of record and then he stopped taking my calls and I haven’t heard from him since. He simply committed a crime against me and disappeared when I sent him a certified letter asking for my unearned fees back to the address he has listed with the State Bar of Texas his address is fake. I have written to the Supreme Courts concerning the State Bar for showing him as an Attorney in good standing and they don’t even have a good address for him and also asking that he be disbarred for running scams on the American people some of which are in vulnerable situations and he is using his license to rip us off. I want him stopped and the State Bar investigated for giving him a way to rip us off by giving out false information. Barksdale has problems with integrity and is using the system to get money from clients knowing full well he’s not going to do his job. The State Bar should be held responsible also for giving antyAttorney a way to legally rip us off. If this is happening to anyone other than myself it’s one too many I work for my money and for Barksdale to run. Scam in me legally and get away with it is appalling and he need to be disbarred.
Read more
30 Mar, 2013 by Bruce hudeck
All I can say about withem is,...well, hire a real attorney.Don't waste your money on this dude. Its a shame I had to give withem even one star,I had no choice.
Read more
23 May, 2009 by Anonymous
Withem tried to handle my divorce in 2001-2002 ! Withem would never return calls,and it became very obvious that he wanted this divorce to go on indefinitely. The only thing Withem seemed to be on top of his game about is mailing out his statements and wanting to get paid,right now ! Withem was totally pitiful in the courtroom and allowed my ex-wifes attorney to request and granted one B.S.continuance after another,never opening his pie hole once. The judge finally told us to go out in the hallway and settle, and that is just what me and my ex did with no help from Withem at all. (Withen would had been no help anyway) Any of you people that have to get a divorce by all means find a competent attorney. Withem damn sure don't fit that bill.
Read more
26 Jul, 2024 by Jacqueline
I had a debt negotiation consultation with Laura Strain. I felt that she was immediately disrespectful, first by cutting me off with “Do you even have a job?” Laura didn’t seem to understand the importance of treating EVERYONE with respect and dignity, especially if they are in a tough spot. It is ill-advised to attempt to shame people about it if you expect anyone to give you money. Her knowledge of the nuances of law was lacking as she didn’t seem to know simple concepts like the Fair Credit Reporting Act or due process in the system. It can be speculated that she did know but was holding back for some reason. Either way, I didn’t feel she was qualified to represent me. She didn’t listen to me and wouldn’t acknowledge the suspicious elements of the case. She continued that she did not believe what I was trying to tell her and assumed that I was lying without taking time with the facts.
It has been challenging to watch as our leadership falls to corporate rule, and our morality and sense of unity are so far from what the founding fathers imagined. It has been brought to my attention that corporations often tread on our rights and are allowed free rein to do so as long as they pay a fine. I have dealt with corporate malfeasance before, and unfortunately, I am up against it again.
There is a company suing me for debt that isn’t mine. They claim that they sent a process server. I never answer the door for strangers. But Laura said I answered the door for a stranger, fully identified myself to this stranger, and then refused to be served and went back inside. If I were evading, wouldn't I just...NOT OPEN THE DOOR? The server also misdescribed me as aged 45-60 and white. I told Laura, "I'm not White." She said, in a derogatory tone, "What, are you, Black?" So, what if I was? I don’t know what that was about. I told her I was Asian. Her response was, "Oh, well, *derisive laugh* whatever. Easy mistake.” The thing is, I have never been mistaken for White before in my life. I’m ubiquitously bronze. Half of my family hails from Nanking, Southern China. We are brown. Also, I don’t look 45-60. Being Asian, I am mistaken for being in my twenties to early thirties.
I baited her with a question that should answer itself. A motion was denied because the debtor did not list exempt and non-exempt items. Now, logically, where would one think they would get this list? So, I asked, “They sent this motion in without contacting me. Isn’t that wrong? “The correct answer is yes. It was denied because it was missing a list they would have procured from me. She answered incorrectly and with contempt, “No. Why would they contact you? Then you would hide all of your assets.” Sigh.
There was paperwork missing on my end in the packet that was MAILED, not served. The company never sent me proof that the debt was mine via statements. There was a link I couldn't access. This should raise red flags. Fair credit reporting act, right? Why do I not have this credit card on my credit report? I know I have not owned a card from this company before, and I was never sent a chance to dispute. Laura ignored all of this and still treated me like a criminal. I asked why they did not send copies of my “old statements” to prove the debt was mine and hid them in a file. I asked why I didn’t have access. Her response (this is dreadful) was, "Because I’m an attorney, and you're not. We can afford expensive....blah blah. You can go to the courthouse and request records if you want them…." I cut her off. She was wrong again. They should've given me a chance to ask for proof of the debt/dispute. They should be included in the summons for posterity. I realized this was an utter waste of my time, and shut her down with, "Equivalently, I could just renew my subscription to Lexis Nexis." I said the conversation was over, I didn't like the way she was talking to me and she was being highly disrespectful, and I was going elsewhere. I am concerned for other clients.
Read more
13 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
No emotion.
No respect
Sherk looking woman that is so cruel.
Didn't help my case.
Lets her sons do drugs. Then puts drug users away.
Read more
30 Aug, 2012 by Anonymous
He does not return calls and many many times does not answer calls. He rarely answers emails and seems to always have excuses as to why he has not done this or that in a timely manner. It took him more than 5 months to file my suit and then we sat at square 1 for months and months while he procrastination and continued to not communicate. He continued to ask for more money and did not ever give me an invoice of any kind. My case had to be moved out of state and he was to find an attorney in that state, and he asked for even more money to pay the new attorney and for himself, yet after 2 months he still had done nothing about hiring the out of state attorney. Instead all I got was excuses that he had been ill, his wife had been ill , his computer was giving him problems and on and on. I fired him, asked for a return of the money I sent him for the out of state attorney and for the extra he wanted for himself. I had to fire him via phone message and email. I have not heard back from him. Save yourself grief and pass this attorney up. He wasted my time and charged me many thousands of dollars. I have never dealt with an attorney who drug his feet and was so hard to contact as this man.
Read more
05 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous
Consulting fee. Refunding fee. No cost information. No payment plan information.
Read more
08 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
I hired Mr. Hughes in March 2013 to file a civil suit for me. It is now 6 months later and he refuses to return my phone calls or emails. I asked him through the official CAAP letter to return my retainer fee and he refuses. I hired him to sue a con-man that conned me out of money, and now I feel like I am being conned by this attorney.
Read more
15 Nov, 2021 by Travis
I was named in a Law suit that was totally frivolous. I sent and Email and a voice mail. I did not receive a response. Bottom line it cost me 1500.00 for something I had nothing to do wit.
Read more
30 Apr, 2012 by Anonymous
She is unprofessional and her intenstions are only in what benefits her not her clients. Worthless as a lawyer&judge! She had no intenstions in fully helping her clients and always asked for more money in return. She gave us the run around on everything and was never clear on anything but when she needed her money she made sure she was on top of everything and answer minimal questions.
Read more
24 Oct, 2022 by Anonymous
Michael initially answered calls, in the event he didn’t he would return the call in a reasonable time frame. Not prompt but within reason. Within the first week he had already reneged on things he previously said he would do. Dates he guaranteed passed by. With no explanation or reason. He simply stopped communicating. Leaving us completely in the dark. On a matter he said was just a matter of presenting to the judge, no more than a simple interaction ll. After contacting the county clerk numerous times I was informed he never even went as he had assured he would. Now he will not answer anyones calls and has yet to return a single call. Is this guy actually committed to his clients. I don’t think so
Read more
06 Jul, 2012 by Anonymous
I hired this attorney and after court I never heard from him again without having to call numerous times, contact his law firm with a complaint, and send several emails. He failed to do half the things he said he was going to do, and did not even get my court order signed by the judge. Neal Prevost and staff is very negligent and unprofessional, I definately would not recommend him to anyone in the future.
Read more
12 Apr, 2022 by Condo board
Jason Reed sold us out for 2/3 of the money we could have collected.
On August 30, 2021 we told him via email that “we as a board are not of the mindset to waive any sort of late fees, penalties, interest, etc. we have a collection policy and we the board do not discrimination in the application of that policy.”
On August 31, 2021 at 9:29AM Jason Reed replied to us with “I (Reed) will report to opposing counsel that the Association is not going to waive any of the charges and feel that Mr. (Name of person being sued by us) is responsible for all assessments, late charges, collection costs, including attorney’s fees, and the fines levied against the respective units”
Later that week we reached out to Jason Reed about the state of things as foreclosure was scheduled for early the next week. Reed informed us that the person being sued came in and paid about 2/3 of the money owed and since everything but fines were now paid, we could not pursue the foreclosure any longer and we were still owed the fines.
When Jason Reed wouldn’t pursue things further we requested copies of all communication and discovered the following.
On Tuesday August 31, 2021, 12:44PM : Reed replies to an email to the opposing lawyer and states If the amounts minus the fines are paid, then the sale will no longer be an issue.”
NOTE: It appears here that in the span of three hours and 15 minutes, Reed has unilaterally (without client feedback) decided what he will accept in direct contradiction to written instruction by his client.
Read more
05 Feb, 2015 by Anonymous
Attorney charged me alot of money to represent me because she said she could help me win my appeal but I ended up losing. She kept my hopes up to keep billing me more and more. I don not recomend this lawyer
Read more
28 Oct, 2012 by Heather
I went thru legal aid and got Todd thompson as my lawyer. Cps was involved in my case and he told to just give my asstranged husband my children. Even went as to have me call my parents to the crt house and try to convince me/us to give him my girls. Well here we are few yrs later and my ex is now in jail for multiple charges from sexual assault to murder. To think if I listened to him what kind of environment they would have grown up in. He never once tried to learn my case or the situationhe just wanted me to give up BC he didn't want the work!! He DOESNT CARE
Read more
06 Mar, 2018 by Joao
Felt overwhelmed about speaking with this attorney. I needed some legal and being from South America, it was very nerve racking trying to explain my situation to this woman. I felt ignored and patronized as though I was a child. I did not feel I could trust this persons ability in understanding and relaying my situation in court.
Read more
18 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
George is never prepared and cant event tell whats going on in the case. I feel I wasted my money and he did not care to protect me kids. I strongly recommend finding a better attorney one that will actually fight and follow through with what they say!!!
Read more
11 Mar, 2009 by Anonymous
THIS 'LAWYER' REPRESENTED ME IN 1978 WHEN I WAS A YOUNG TEENAGER OF 18 YRS OF AGE. ALTHOUGH I RECEIVED A COURT ORDER GRANTING A NEW TRIAL AND DISMSSING ALL CHARGES, VOSS NEVER FOLLOWED THROUGH WITH THE EXPUNCTION THAT WAS MANDATED BY THE COURT. AS A RESULT, NOW 31 YEARS LATER, I AM HAVING TO FILE THE EXPUNGEMENT PROCEEDING MYSELF. I ATTEMPTED TO CONTACT VOSS AND HE SIMPLY BLEW ME OFF. IN SPITE OF VOSS' FAILURE TO DO HIS JOB, I BECAME A SUCCESSFUL FINANCIAL PLANNER AND AM WORKING ON MY MASTER'S DEGREE TODAY, AND HAVE BEEN A RESPECTED BUSINESS OWNER FOR 20 YEARS NOW IN HOUSTON. I DO NOT RECOMMEND THIS ATTORNEY AS HE DOES NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR PAST ACTIONS, TO REMEDY ERRORS.
Read more
24 Apr, 2024 by Bryan
I found attorney Nestor Javier Lopez-Garcia through a Legal Aid referral notification when requesting legal assistance for my type of case. I was seeking representation after my initial civil case was concluded against my apartment complex [Artisan Luxury Apartments | Location: 8701 W. Parmer Lane] [Case #1JC-21-0454]. While I lived there, I rented a garage port that was tied into my lease agreement. While still in my lease, they leased out my garage to a new resident, and reported my items as abandoned. I filed a civil suit against them, and won a settlement amount; however their attorney made a countersuit about water damage on the carpet, which was the result from the big winterstorm that happened around 2021.and was related to the winter storm that displaced most of the people in my building. After that situation happened, there was no maintenance work done to repair my floor in the unit. I realized that this countersuit could be a tactic to mitigate the settlement. The settlement I won therefore was reduced after they won their countersuit against me. I filed an appeal, and realized that I needed professional help, because I realized how unprepared I was to counter-argue the opposing side's claim. I came into contact with Nestor J. Lopez, Esq. (Loc: Law Office of Nestor J. Lopez, PLLC). Which I found through Texas Legal Aid service. The issue that Mr. Lopez caused me was not appearing for my appeal hearing, & advising me that I did not have to appear myself. This caused the opposing side to win a Final Judgment at the County Court at Law #4 [No. 22-0869-CC4]. I had the opportunity to open a new case, but within that 30 day window Mr. Lopez did not file a new case on my behalf, and failed to provide me the information I needed to get him off my case, which would have allowed me to get someone else to open a new case for me. I had grounds to reopen a new case, but since Mr. Lopez was listed as my lawyer on file, then he would have to do so, which he never did. I filed a CDC grievance with the "Office of the Chief Disciplinary Counsel" [Re: 202207630] and provided them a detail papertrail & timeline of the events that lead to my outcome. After the hearing they found cause to provide disciplinary actions on him. He was required to complete mandatory courses, and has since been reinstated as of April 10, 2024. I am writing this review for anyone needing honest feedback before making a decision. I believe that people need resources & feedback to make informed decisions. I have vetted this review to make sure I have cobberating information to support everything I stated.
Read more
06 Jan, 2017 by Anonymous
She is definitely not the wonder I was told she is. And, she definitely cannot handle hard cases. She never does what she promises to do. She won't return your calls or texts. And, she is never prepared for court. Overall, I would never recommend her to anyone.
Read more
28 Dec, 2019 by Anonymous
I would not trust him. In my first consultation he said no charge but then charged me. He did absolutely nothing but refused to give me back my deposit when I dropped what I was going to have him work on. He said that he would not do anything until he got $500 and I payed $300 down but stopped because of medical reasons and he refused to give me a refund. So he give me about the consultation fee said he did paperwork that he did not do so I don't recommend anyone to use him because he is not true to his word .
Read more
20 Dec, 2017 by Anonymous
Do not hire this attorney he is very lazy, unprofessional and he does not go to court dates when required. Because of him I lost my bankrupcy case. I lost my house among other things., none of the cases he handle for me or my friends won., I do not recomend him.
Read more
27 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous
In my case, my car was stolen. The thieves apparently went through a toll and racked up $20 in toll fees. After getting a bunch of letters from his firm, I called to ask what was going on. I quickly realized it was a zombie call center, not a real law firm... The call center staff (not lawyers, of course) were very difficult to deal with. All they wanted was their money. The required that I send a police report. I went to Office Max and faxed the report that the officer gave me. Couple days later I called, since I hadn't heard from James or his call-center zombie army. Apparently, that initial report wasn't good enough for ol' James -- the zombies steadfastly insisted that I send the actual FULL police report. I had to call the police department and get one sent to me ($10). I went back to Office Max and faxed the whole report ($7). Called James -- I mean his zombie call center -- today, and talked to a half-alive, nearly comatose "individual" who informed me that the charges had been erased. Thanks, but a little notice would have been appreciated, after all the headache and expense on my part. So, the total cost of the debt was $33, including late fees (remember, this was a stolen car). I paid $20 (and some headache time) to get the charges addressed, and corrected. James P Harris, I demand that you send me $20 now, or I will charge you a hefty late fee!
Read more
22 Sep, 2021 by Sinatra
I used Paul on my Divorce. I ended up with a Divorce Decree that dosen't mention my sole and separate property. Then, want fix his mess. Paul are you and your office please with the way you've represented me? I'm not.
County Court at Law Administrative Assistant with a Law license.
Read more
21 Jul, 2014 by Chris
I tried to hire this lawyer for a traffic ticket. He does not seem to be a knowledgeable about traffic tickets. He said I had to appear in person with him (I have had several tickets dismissed by other lawyers without me being present). Then he said he would accept my case through Hyatt Legal plans. Then he told me not to file an online petition to contest my case. Next, he went silent for several days and would not respond to my emails and phone calls. Finally, he comes back and says he cannot take my case. By this time, the time to file online expired making my case more difficult.
Thanks for absolutely NOTHING!
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Texas - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Houston
-
Dallas
-
Austin
-
San Antonio
-
Fort Worth
-
Plano
-
El Paso
-
Irving
-
Lubbock
-
The Woodlands
-
Arlington
-
Corpus Christi
-
Tyler
-
Spring
-
Richardson
-
Waco
-
Sugar Land
-
Beaumont
-
Frisco
-
McAllen
-
Amarillo
-
McKinney
-
Midland
-
Conroe
-
Denton
-
Katy
-
Edinburg
-
Addison
-
Brownsville
-
Laredo
-
Round Rock
-
Southlake
-
Bellaire
-
Galveston
-
Georgetown
-
Richmond
-
West Lake Hills
-
Longview
-
Abilene
-
Pearland
-
Texarkana
-
Bryan
-
Corp Christi
-
Carrollton
-
New Braunfels
-
Allen
-
Garland
-
San Angelo
-
Wichita Falls
-
Rockwall
-
Coppell
-
Grapevine
-
Odessa
-
League City
-
San Marcos
-
Flower Mound
-
Lewisville
-
Victoria
-
Bedford
-
Kingwood
-
Boerne
-
Temple
-
Cypress
-
Harlingen
-
Sherman
-
Waxahachie
-
Cedar Park
-
College Station
-
Friendswood
-
Humble
-
Kerrville
-
Weatherford
-
Colleyville
-
Angleton
-
Grand Prairie
-
Lufkin
-
Pasadena
-
Huntsville
-
Euless
-
Belton
-
Missouri City
-
Nacogdoches
-
Granbury
-
Mansfield
-
Seguin
-
Hurst
-
Keller
-
Killeen
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Texas
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Personal Injury
-
Criminal Defense
-
Litigation
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Government
-
Intellectual Property
-
Probate
-
Consumer Protection
-
Immigration
-
Appeals
-
Tax
-
Debt Collection
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Child Support
-
Insurance
-
Juvenile Law
-
Elder Law
-
Civil Rights
-
Mediation
-
Car Accident
-
Child Custody
-
Entertainment
-
Wrongful Death
-
Workers Compensation
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Domestic Violence
-
Trusts
-
Divorce
-
Adoption
-
Bankruptcy
-
Federal Crime
-
Sex Crime
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
Class Action
-
Employment / Labor
-
DUI / DWI
-
Discrimination
-
Foreclosure
-
Drug Crime
-
Construction
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Debt Settlement
-
Cannabis Law
-
Copyright Application
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Life Insurance
-
Credit Repair
-
Environmental Law
-
Education Law
-
Wills
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.
