Lawyers map
>222
experienced lawyers
Filter by
08 Sep, 2022 by Anthony pollard
I leave a message last Thursday still haven't received a response are call
Read more
10 Apr, 2022 by Dolores c. tubbs
Would highly recommend this firm to a potential client or to someone seeking employment.
Read more
06 Nov, 2015 by Shannon
Mr. Davis handled my case quickly when I was injured at a local retail store. He was able settle favorable for me and my family. He's easy to work with and fought hard for me. THANK YOU!
Read more
18 Sep, 2024 by Kelsey graham
Ken is a compassionate and caring attorney. Resolved my criminal issue favorable to my interest. Responds quickly to calls, texts, and email. Reasonably priced service, offered a Veterans discount and would hire again.
Read more
01 Sep, 2024 by Donald tyson
I recently used the Ulich law firm and I was very happy. They were honest, and worked hard for me. I highly recommend calling Mr. Ulich if you are looking for legal counsel.
Read more
27 Aug, 2024 by Becky olsen
I had the pleasure of working with Ulich Law on a legal matter that was both complex and emotionally taxing. From the very first consultation, I knew I was in good hands. The team at Ulich Law demonstrated a deep understanding of the legal landscape and provided clear, concise guidance at every step of the process.
What stood out to me the most was their level of compassion and dedication. They genuinely cared about my case and took the time to listen to my concerns. This personalized approach made a significant difference in my experience, as I felt supported and understood throughout.
The communication was exceptional—whether it was answering my questions promptly or keeping me informed about the progress of my case. Their expertise and attention to detail were evident in the favorable outcome we achieved.
I highly recommend Ulich Law to anyone seeking legal representation. Their professionalism, integrity, and client-focused approach are truly unmatched.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Keywestmom mom
Best attorney on the face of the earth
Read more
30 Apr, 2024 by Brad siegel
Absolutely the best!!!!
I would highly recommend to everyone.
Read more
06 Jul, 2023 by Cindy heinrich
Mr. Ellis is caring & compassionate and handled my legal issues with ease. He was knowledgeable and professional. I would not, and do not, hesitate to recommend him to others who need legal representation.
Read more
23 Mar, 2022 by Kyle hamilton
Made sure to get what my fiancee is owed. Awesome firm.
Read more
18 Jun, 2021 by John mcdowell
Seen another attorney and felt very confused and dissatisfied. I found this office through a friend that mentioned them. They picked up my case and it was handled like it was important to them. It felt like only a month after speaking to them they reached a settlement when the last attorney I barely heard from within a year. The staff is amazing and takes the time out to listen to your concerns and questions. Every time I spoke to anyone from this office they have made me feel very confident with the work they do!
Read more
02 Jun, 2021 by Bianca jones
Mr.Shimek is the best lawyer to go to in Pensacola. He really does a great job. And he cares about all his clients.
Read more
03 May, 2017 by David
Super smart and tireless lawyer that has done a fabulous job handling my foreclosure defense. I would highly recommend him and the firm!
Read more
02 May, 2017 by David
Defending my foreclosure since 2009, Senior Paralegal is beyond awesome. How can you complain after 8 years of defense and still fighting.
Read more
01 May, 2017 by Leona kunkle tamborello
The best decision I ever made was to hire Brian's office as my attorney in my home loan modification case. They have work very hard to keep me in my home and have won my foreclosure case. They keep fighting to keep me in my home and I appreciate everything they do for me. I would recommend them to anyone in my situation.
Read more
08 Jan, 2024 by Natasha herak
If you are looking for an attorney who actually cares, look no further. Excellent attorney and human being. One of a kind.
Read more
08 Nov, 2023 by Edward cooper
I had a great experience with the whole thing, and he was very attentive to all The needs and questions I had definitely earned the five stars
Read more
22 Jun, 2023 by Stella teran
Thank you, Scott. "YOU ARE THE BEST"
Thank you for your support and understanding during this process and your prompt response when I have questions or need your help. Your experience, knowledge, professionalism, and, most importantly, your kind treatment make the process easier and more bearable!
I will recommend your services to everyone in the family law matter or personal injury process.
Once again, THANK YOU!
Sincerely yours,
Stella M Teran
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Katherine salguera
Thanks to Mr. Del villar, thanks to him my husband is out of trouble and at home with us. He is the best lawyer we could find.
Read more
02 Nov, 2024 by Carlos perez
The best lawyer in Miami. Yo e estado con el desde el 2013 el mejor, muy atento y me salvo en más de una ocasion. Yo y mi familia estaremos eternamente agradecidos de él por el yo hoy soy un hombre cambiado con oportunidades en la vida gracia a que el gano todos mis casos muchas gracias Jorge de parte de mi familia y mía.
Read more
01 Nov, 2024 by Terry ann
I was introduce to Mr. Del Villar through another client that dealt with him in the past. He was very understanding and easy to work with. He let you know right away if he can help you or not. He gives you and clear understanding of what’s going on and what can happen. He is very affordable and will work out a payment plan with you. I am very satisfied dealing with him. I appreciate his honesty and dedication to me and my family.
Read more
28 May, 2016 by Anonymous
I hope this (current) review will be helpful for those considering good representation (it could have helped me). This lawyer could serve you well if you are seeking a legal form to be filled and filed with the court (or something straightforward), but if litigation is required, I think better counsel can be found. My mother and I had a straightforward conflict that needed legal resolution. A contract was in place that would quickly be resolved in front of a judge. The case took a year to resolve and cost us a small loss and legal costs. Throughout the case, he was never clear with us until he needed to be, instead informed us on a need to know basis. Usually his response to detailed questions was, “Let’s see what happens.” He allowed himself to be manipulated by opposing counsel several times even though I warned him practically each time. I still have many apologetic emails and recordings that testify to this, yet he was able to still charge us for his mistakes. In case you are wondering, why not fire him? I learned that lesson late. We believed in the case more than we did him and so was willing to see it through. That was a mistake on our part. The case was settled overall in our favor upon my insistence to go to court, though he was against doing so and on many occasions tried to have us settle. In the end it was clear he wanted to walk away once our money ran out. Instead of continuing to find money to pay him, it was best to be finished with him and take the small loss. In conclusion, regardless of how strong your case might be, under his representation you stand a chance to lose or settle. So beware and I hope this turns out to be helpful to someone.
Read more
22 May, 2011 by Carlos
We needed help with a subcontractor that defaulted on his agreement and was threatening to put a lien on the project. Mr. Carrero promptly engaged and resolved the matter in a matter of days.
Read more
29 Apr, 2011 by Carlos
From a real estate perspective, we have exchanged many referrals and successfully helped many clients together. Mr. Carrero has always been responsive and well informed. I would eagerly refer any and all clients to him, and recommend him in all matters involving real estate.
Read more
17 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
I THANK HIS ATTENTION, HIS UNDERSTANDING, HIS PATIENCE! NO OTHER PROFESSIONAL HAS BEEN WITH ME LIKE MR. COHEN. HE TOLD ME THAT THE WORLD THAT WAS OVER MY SHOULDERS WHEN THE INTERVIEW STARTED, WAS ON HIS HANDS AT THE END, TO SOLVE MY SITUATION.
Read more
14 Dec, 2016 by Sonya
Cost me 450. For a 30 min bankruptcy consultation. No refunds if you don't continue you case. Be careful what you sign or pay him down !!
Read more
03 Feb, 2016 by Anonymous
ATTORNEY ROBERT S. COHEN'S IDEA TO SIMPLY WRITE A LETTER TO THE OWNER OF A RENTAL PROPERTY DIRECTLY ACROSS THE STREET FROM OUR RESIDENCE STOPPED THE
DRUMMER AND CONTINUOUS LOUD MUSIC FROM BEING HEARD BY US ON A DAILY BASIS !
WITHIN TWO WEEKS OF RECEIVING ATTY. COHEN'S LETTER,
THE PROBLEM RENTER'S WERE EVICTED BY THE LANDLORD AND THE MUSIC STOPPED !
THANK YOU ATTORNEY COHEN FOR A SIMPLE SOLUTION TO WHAT COULD HAVE BEEN AN UNSOLVABLE PROBLEM.
WE SAY THIS BECAUSE AS SOON AS THE LEE COUNTY SHERIFF WAS CALLED BY US TO STOP THE NOISY NEIGHBORS, THEY WOULD STOP JUST BEFORE THE SHERIFF ARRIVED AND START THE MUSIC AFTER THE SHERIFF LEFT THE SCENE !
WE APPRECIATE ATTORNEY COHEN'S INTERVENTION IN THIS MATTER BY BEING THE MIDDLE GROUND BETWEEN OUR BAD NEIGHBORS , THE OWNER OF THE RENTAL PROPERTY ( WHO WAS NOT AWARE OF THE PROBLEM ) AND OURSELVES WHO ONLY WANTED PEACE AND QUIET !
Read more
18 Oct, 2024 by Patti jegers
Shame on Tictin Law firm. We lost our town-house after monthly payments for them advertising how they were the best firm to STOP FORECLOSURES... 9 Years ago! Just learned how to post, elderly people here. Terrible business.
Read more
29 Mar, 2024 by Sydney scutt
“I was completely impressed with their professionalism and the willingness to help me in my case specially Attoney Edner J Geffrard one of the best in the south Florida .i would highly recommend him to anyone who is looking for an Attoney(accident, civil affairs ) .
Read more
04 Jan, 2024 by Tannaz haghi
👎🏻
Read more
23 Aug, 2024 by Mark
We asked Michael for his help, he agreed. He got spooked and did not respond. Calls, emails, multiple times. No response. We wasted significant amount of time. When finally reached, softly, softly gave weak excuses and arrogantly said “you’re welcome” for 3 minutes of work.
Read more
04 Sep, 2019 by Muhammad
Michael has been very impressive for me and friends in dealing with different cases encountered so far.He is very thorough and meticulous in details when preparing any case or documents.
Read more
14 Jan, 2016 by Yeimy flores
Excellent attention: speed, honesty and humanity.
He answered my question respectfully and politely.
I took confidence from his first answer and actually tracked my case.
Grateful
Read more
06 Aug, 2024 by David catlett
This attorney took the case of a 77 year old man who needed help getting a hostile renter evicted and this attorney billed over $1000 to NEEDLESSLY travel an hour (total) and look at a property when there was absolutely no need for the “trip”. In my opinion this attorney has extremely poor ethics and should not be trusted. He even admitted to his client he was an acquaintance of opposing counsel. He’s totally either ignored his clients request or just deflects to draw matters out for more billing hours. Makes you wonder why a simple eviction notice has taken months and cost thousands.
If your loved one is elderly or easily conned, please don’t let them talk to this crook. He only cares about billing hours. Not clients.
Read more
08 Mar, 2024 by Gregory kellis
We contacted Mr. Brundage at Brundage Law in July of 2023 to gain guardianship of our autistic granddaughter who is elementary school aged. Our granddaughter needs protections and services such as health insurance that we cannot provide because we do not have guardianship. Mr. Brundage stated this was something he and his team could do without any issues. We provided all requested documentation and waited for Brundage Law to do their thing.
The first issue was the wrong documentation was provided to the courts by Brundage Law, so we were denied. We contacted Mr. Brundage and were told he was resubmitting with the correct documentation and would be in touch with us throughout this process.
After 2 months, we reached out to Brundage Law, repeatedly, by phone and email and received no reply. In November, we finally received an email stating Mr. Brundage would be in touch with us by a specific date with more information. The date came and went with no contact. We reached out again and again by email and phone, would receive replies they would be in contact with us by a specific date with an action plan to move forward, and each time the date would come and go without any contact.
It is now eight months later. We are simply trying to protect our very young granddaughter who is a special needs child. We have given all required documentation, we have been patient, I feel we have been polite, and we are getting no where. I'm not sure if Brundage Law simply hoped we would go away by ignoring us, or if they truly have good intentions with very poor follow through.
I hate leaving a review like this, but we are at our wits end, and again, trying to protect an innocent little girl.
Read more
31 Mar, 2023 by Andy m
Mike, Nic, and Paulina have been very helpful in resolving a matter. They listened to our concerns and developed a plan of action to help us resolve our issue. They went above and beyond every step of the way and communicated all information to us. We could not be happier with the services they have provided. Thank you Mike, Nic, and Paulina for all your hard work.
Read more
23 Apr, 2016 by Placa
he assisted with my foreclosure and probate. Helped my family greatly with a very stressful time. Was very good in court my only complaint was he is hard to just get in touch with didn’t like calling to get a time to call him but the staff did always take my calls.
Read more
06 Apr, 2016 by Paul
Joe Heintz and his staff helped us to get the time we needed to sell our house. He is terriffic.
Read more
17 Mar, 2014 by Perri giafaglione
Epic bad experience/waste of money, time and energy. To be succinct his staff couldn't be more rude and unhelpful which is actually the highlight of his practice. I made at least 13 unreturned phone calls to his office. With an impending hearing I felt desperate and disconnected from my case which involved my home. As my court date drew near I had no recourse but to call the Florida Bar. They were extremely professional and helpful and explained that they would send him a letter (which would take about 10 days). When I explained that my hearing was in less time than that they asked me to hold and called his office immediately. They returned to the line and indicated that he would be calling me. Surprisingly, he did. He was very agitated that I had the gaul to call the Bar. It was obvious that the only reason he called was because he was being exposed for the unprofessional he is. I wouldn't hire this guy to detail my car, much less do important legal work. You are the reason people group lawyers in with used car salesmen.
Read more
30 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Atty. Garner reviewed a lease last year and told us we were fine for the next 5-10 years which was the new lease conditions. However, she neglected to do her research in the lease and we were informed by the opposing attorney that the new lease was not "witnessed by two people", so it wasn't valid. Because of this, we had to move out of our business location. Furthermore, the attorney didn't have the courtesy to contact us toward the end of this issue and had sent us a letter telling us that they were "no longer being represented by their firm". We paid her $450.00 to have a paralegal draft up a letter and a few phone conversations. FIND AN EXPERIENCED ATTORNEY WHO KNOWS THE LAW AND WON'T LEAVE YOU IN A BIND!!!!!!
Read more
05 Feb, 2018 by Mario
We hired Jennifer to write our articles of incorporation and guide us during the crucial time of starting a new medical business.
She was very professional, responsive, helpful, and a pleasure to work with. We have no doubt that we hired the right attorney, would use her services again, and do not hesitate recommending her.
Read more
02 Jun, 2017 by Megan
I was referred to Jennifer from my business broker. She was absolutely wonderful to work with. She was extremely easy to get in contact with, explained everything in our 40+ page contract so that I fully understood each item and even worked with me after the sale during a contingency period when she didn't really have to. Her pricing was beyond reasonable and I feel very lucky to have worked with her. I would recommend her to anyone.
Read more
23 Jan, 2025 by Jason mohn
This program , the Law Firm, the Attorney’s, and everything they do for our community and the people of our community is absolutely amazing! My attorney Mr Brooks Fusselman and his associates helped me through a major crisis I was facing with an elderly landlord who didn’t even live in this country. This landlord tried to put me and my very young child on the street. The “Property Manager” is her alcoholic tenant who dwells downstairs from the house I leased for 12 months. He doesn’t like the noise of a child running down the hallway, or his bath time, etc.. therefore I was considered a “noise problem”.
Once Mr Brooks and the very generous people of Community Law Program took my case and started looking into the eviction process…they immediately took legal action to protect me and my child, giving me extra time to prepare for our sudden move and a new place to call home.. I could not have done this if it wasn’t for the kind hearted people at Community Law Program.
Thanks again to all of you.
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Rachel klarer
I called here to get some help and everybody who I spoke to was so rude. Bryan was the main person that I talk to and he was so unhelpful and so short with me and gave me absolutely zero information that was helpful. Do not at all recommend this place. Not even entirely sure what they’re good for.
Read more
03 Jul, 2024 by Rosa cordero troche
I would like to know if there is any help to apply for a divorce, and help for shared custody of minors.
Read more
27 Jul, 2017 by Charles
I USED MR. OSTLIE FOR A COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE CLOSING FOR MY BANK. HE WAS HANDS-ON AND HE AND HIS STAFF DID AN EXCELLENT JOB. I WOULD RECOMMEND THEM ANYTIME.
Read more
28 Jun, 2017 by Alexandra
I used this firm as my closing company for a personal, residential purchase. I was charged $550 for closing fees as the buyer of a house, about twice the fees one would expect for a house this price.
I requested an invoice of what was included in the closing fees. After a heated discussion, Ostlie replied that he doesn't question what I charge in my profession for my services, though he isn't a my client.
Finally, he asked if I was looking for breakdown of "ancillary costs and the wire charges and the cost of staffing the closing and calling the lender." I replied that indeed, that is what I'm requesting, to which he replied, "Well, I'm not going to do that."
The seller was assessed no closing cost, as it was the sibling of Ostlie. Clearly passed the buck to me. Nepotism at its finest.
Thankful that his paralegals were punctual and helpful, but I would not recommend his services.
Read more
25 Oct, 2024 by Anonymous
Took my money and did not respond to lawsuits promptly and let cases go to default and then almost suffered from wage garnishment. Real liar and cheat. Tried to get more $$ and further ill advisement. Fired him and went to someone trustworthy,
Read more
19 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
He did nothing for me. Got my 1200.00 . I am credit free right now he did nothing for me!! Do not recommend at all. If u have boobs he will check them out. Very unpleasant. Screw him as well as his assistant Virginia.
Read more
29 Oct, 2018 by Anonymous
I paid this lawyer in 5/2017 to handle a old credit card account of mine was advised it should be a simple case. I called two different occasions to obtain satisfaction of case never was called back. Come to find out in 10/2018 case is still open he hasn't done anything since 7/2017 and now I am being told by him that I will probably loss I just need to pay it. He was rude, arrogant on the phone and when I told him I wanted explanation as to why I wasn't kept informed he handed off call to someone else and said he didn't have time to follow up that was my job. What a joke of an attorney.
Read more
23 Dec, 2020 by Anonymous
Mr. Weller would not do what I asked. I suggested to him to try to convert my chapter 13 to a chapter 7 because of my change in my financial situation. His reply was pretty much that can't happen. I elected to terminate Mr. Weller and go with another lawyer. My new lawyer converted my chapter 13 to a chapter 7 after reviewing my situation and we took care of it in a matter of a couple months. Case closed , I'm happy . Jay Weller needs to try to have a little more compassion for his work ethic and for his customers I won't talk about the price I paid along with his so called monthly monitor fees. Not any monitoring going on that I was aware of.
Read more
30 Jan, 2018 by Anonymous
Jay is a great lawyer and helped turn my life around. I highly recommend him and his team.
Read more
07 Jun, 2011 by Michelle
Jay Weller is VERY unprofessional and unreliable. He stood me up on 2 separate appointments and then when I asked for my deposit back due to the situation, his incompetent staff refused. They did nothing but waste 2 of my Saturday mornings and then kept my hard earned money. I chose another attorney that did an excellent job and was always at the appointments. Jay Weller is not someone that I would choose to represent me in any way shape or form. Don't even bother calling him and call someone that will actually show up to your scheduled appointments.
Read more
30 May, 2024 by Dana
Absolutely terrible lawyer. I would never recommend her to anyone, not even to my enemy! Extremely biased lawyer protecting unlicensed criminals. She didn't read all my complaints nor did she look all the overwhelming evidences yet she decided to give to a criminal a free pass. Stay away from this extremely biased lawyer.
Read more
Browse lawyers
Cities in Florida - Find a Lawyer Near Me
-
Miami
-
Tampa
-
Orlando
-
Fort Lauderdale
-
Jacksonville
-
Coral Gables
-
Boca Raton
-
West Palm Beach
-
Tallahassee
-
Saint Petersburg
-
Naples
-
Sarasota
-
Fort Myers
-
Clearwater
-
Plantation
-
Pensacola
-
Gainesville
-
Hollywood
-
Palm Beach Gardens
-
Winter Park
-
Miami Beach
-
Bradenton
-
Melbourne
-
Delray Beach
-
Daytona Beach
-
Maitland
-
Coral Springs
-
Ocala
-
Stuart
-
Lakeland
-
Davie
-
Aventura
-
Jupiter
-
St. Petersburg
-
Vero Beach
-
Weston
-
Boynton Beach
-
Doral
-
Panama City
-
Miami Lakes
-
Saint Augustine
-
Deerfield Beach
-
Pembroke Pines
-
Sunrise
-
North Miami
-
Kissimmee
-
Altamonte Springs
-
Pompano Beach
-
Lake Mary
-
Ft Lauderdale
-
Palm Beach
-
Fort Pierce
-
Bartow
-
Lake Worth
-
New Port Richey
-
Longwood
-
Palm Harbor
-
Brandon
-
Ponte Vedra Beach
-
North Palm Beach
-
Deland
-
Cape Coral
-
Largo
-
North Miami Beach
-
Venice
-
Sanford
-
Ormond Beach
-
Miramar
-
Lutz
-
Wellington
-
Key West
-
Bonita Springs
-
Riverview
-
Jacksonville Beach
-
Punta Gorda
-
Hialeah
-
Winter Garden
-
Lakewood Ranch
-
Tavares
-
South Miami
-
Oviedo
-
Port St. Lucie
-
Winter Haven
-
Fort Walton Beach
-
Destin
-
Coconut Creek
-
Coconut Grove
-
Juno Beach
Browse lawyers
Practice Areas in Florida
-
Business
-
Real Estate
-
Litigation
-
Personal Injury
-
Criminal Defense
-
Family Law
-
Estate Planning
-
Probate
-
Insurance
-
Government
-
Appeals
-
Immigration
-
Consumer Protection
-
Medical Malpractice
-
Car Accident
-
Tax
-
Civil Rights
-
Intellectual Property
-
Mediation
-
Wrongful Death
-
Trusts
-
Child Support
-
Workers Compensation
-
Lawsuit / Dispute
-
Foreclosure
-
Elder Law
-
Child Custody
-
Bankruptcy
-
Domestic Violence
-
Entertainment
-
Juvenile Law
-
Debt Collection
-
Class Action
-
Adoption
-
Social Security & Disability
-
Divorce
-
Federal Crime
-
Discrimination
-
Sex Crime
-
Financial Markets And Services
-
DUI / DWI
-
Debt Settlement
-
Employment / Labor
-
Copyright Application
-
Wrongful Termination
-
Landlord & Tenant
-
Sexual Harassment
-
Construction
-
Drug Crime
-
Admiralty / Maritime
-
Life Insurance
-
Credit Repair
-
Cannabis Law
-
Environmental Law
-
Education Law
-
Wills
-
Constitutional Law
-
Contracts
-
Corporate
-
Guardianship Law
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 Settlement Lawyer Can Do for You
A debt settlement lawyer specializes in helping individuals and businesses negotiate with creditors to reduce or eliminate unsecured debts, such as credit card balances, medical bills, and personal loans. These lawyers provide legal advice on debt relief options, represent you in negotiations, and protect your rights under consumer protection laws. By leveraging their expertise, a debt settlement lawyer can often secure more favorable terms than you might achieve on your own, potentially reducing the total amount owed and helping you avoid bankruptcy.
When Should I Hire a Debt Settlement Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a debt settlement lawyer in the following situations:
- Overwhelming Debt: If you're struggling to make minimum payments on your debts or are facing significant financial hardship, a lawyer can help explore options to reduce your debt burden.
- Creditor Harassment: If creditors or collection agencies are harassing you with frequent calls, letters, or threats, a lawyer can intervene to protect your rights under the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA).
- Lawsuits from Creditors: If a creditor has filed a lawsuit against you for unpaid debts, a lawyer can represent you in court and negotiate settlements to prevent wage garnishment or asset seizure.
- Complex Debt Situations: If your debts involve legal complexities, such as co-signers, joint accounts, or disputed charges, a lawyer can navigate these issues effectively.
- Considering Bankruptcy: If you're contemplating bankruptcy but want to explore alternatives, a debt settlement lawyer can advise on whether debt settlement is a better option for your situation.
- Protecting Assets: If you have significant assets you wish to protect from creditors, a lawyer can help structure settlements to safeguard your property.
Hiring a lawyer early can maximize your chances of a favorable outcome and prevent legal missteps that could worsen your financial situation.
What Does a Debt Settlement Lawyer Do?
A debt settlement lawyer provides a range of services to help you manage and reduce your debts:
- Legal Consultation: Evaluates your financial situation, explains your rights, and advises on the best debt relief options, such as debt settlement, debt consolidation, or bankruptcy.
- Negotiating with Creditors: Communicates with creditors and collection agencies on your behalf to negotiate reduced settlements, lower interest rates, or extended repayment terms.
- Drafting Settlement Agreements: Prepares legally binding agreements that outline the terms of the settlement, ensuring that the creditor cannot pursue additional claims once the debt is settled.
- Protecting Against Creditor Harassment: Uses legal tools to stop abusive collection practices and enforces your rights under consumer protection laws.
- Representing You in Court: If creditors file lawsuits, the lawyer can defend you, potentially getting cases dismissed or negotiating settlements to avoid judgments.
- Financial Planning Advice: Provides guidance on budgeting, managing expenses, and rebuilding credit after debt settlement.
- Bankruptcy Alternatives: Helps you explore alternatives to bankruptcy, which can have long-term effects on your credit and financial opportunities.
How Are Debt Settlement Lawyers Paid?
Debt settlement lawyers typically charge for their services in one of the following ways:
- Flat Fee: A set fee for specific services, such as negotiating with a single creditor or handling a straightforward settlement.
- Hourly Rate: Charging an hourly fee for the time spent working on your case. Rates can range from $200 to $500 or more per hour, depending on the lawyer's experience and location.
- Percentage of Savings: Some lawyers charge a fee based on a percentage of the amount they save you in the settlement. For example, if they negotiate a $10,000 debt down to $6,000, they might charge 25% of the $4,000 saved.
- Retainer Fee: An upfront payment from which the lawyer deducts fees as they work on your case. You may need to replenish the retainer if it is exhausted.
- Payment Plans: Some lawyers offer payment arrangements to make their services more affordable, allowing you to pay the fee over time.
It's important to discuss payment structures and fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost and ensure it fits within your budget.
How Much Does a Debt Settlement Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a debt settlement lawyer varies based on several factors:
- Flat Fees: May range from $500 to $3,000 per creditor, depending on the complexity of the negotiations.
- Hourly Rates: Typically between $200 and $500 per hour. Total costs depend on the amount of time required to settle your debts.
- Percentage of Savings: Commonly 15% to 25% of the amount saved through negotiation. For example, if your lawyer saves you $10,000, their fee might be $1,500 to $2,500.
- Retainer Fees: Initial retainers can range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on the anticipated workload.
Additional costs may include:
- Court Fees: If legal action is necessary, such as filing motions or defending against lawsuits.
- Administrative Fees: Charges for copying documents, postage, or other administrative tasks.
Always request a detailed fee agreement and discuss all potential costs upfront to avoid unexpected expenses.
Top Questions to Ask a Debt Settlement Lawyer
-
What is your experience with debt settlement cases similar to mine?
Ensure the lawyer has a successful track record in negotiating debt settlements for clients with situations like yours. -
How do you charge for your services, and what are the estimated total costs?
Understand the fee structure, including any upfront costs, percentages, or additional fees. -
What are the potential outcomes of my case?
Ask for an honest assessment of how much your debts could be reduced and the likelihood of successful negotiations. -
How long will the debt settlement process take?
Get an estimated timeline for negotiations and resolution. -
Will you handle communications with all my creditors?
Clarify whether the lawyer will negotiate with all your creditors or only specific ones. -
What happens if a creditor refuses to settle?
Discuss alternative strategies if a creditor is uncooperative. -
How will debt settlement affect my credit score?
Understand the potential impact on your credit and how to rebuild it afterward. -
Can you help protect me from creditor lawsuits or wage garnishment?
Inquire about legal protections and how the lawyer can assist if creditors take legal action.
How to Check the Credibility of a Debt Settlement Lawyer
- Verify Their License: Ensure the lawyer is licensed and in good standing with your state's bar association.
- Experience and Specialization: Look for a lawyer who specializes in debt settlement or consumer debt law.
- Client Reviews and Testimonials: Research online reviews or ask for references to learn about other clients' experiences.
- Professional Memberships: Membership in organizations like the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) or local bar associations can indicate a commitment to the field.
- Disciplinary Record: Check for any past disciplinary actions or complaints filed against the lawyer.
- Consultation Feedback: Use the initial consultation to assess their communication style, professionalism, and confidence in handling your case.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To make the most of your initial meeting with a debt settlement lawyer, bring the following:
- Detailed List of Debts: Include all creditors, account numbers, balances, interest rates, and any correspondence you've received.
- Income and Expense Statements: Provide documentation of your income sources and monthly expenses to give the lawyer a clear picture of your financial situation.
- Credit Reports: Obtain a recent copy of your credit report from all three major bureaus (Experian, TransUnion, Equifax).
- Correspondence from Creditors: Bring any letters, notices, or legal documents you've received from creditors or collection agencies.
- Legal Documents: If you've been served with lawsuits, summons, or wage garnishment orders, bring those documents.
- Questions and Concerns: Prepare a list of questions about your options, the debt settlement process, and potential outcomes.
- Budget Information: Be ready to discuss what you can realistically afford to pay toward settlements.
By being thoroughly prepared, you enable the lawyer to assess your situation effectively and provide the best possible legal advice tailored to your needs.
