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29 Aug, 2024 by Rochelle sidney
From the initial conversation with Derrick Talerico to the conclusion of the process, I was consistently supported, cared for, and guided with professionalism and compassion. I wholeheartedly recommend this law firm and am incredibly grateful for their exceptional work.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Kristin kaiser
David Zolkin helped my company through a chapter 11 restructuring. He was kind, considerate, and went above and beyond. Is he $$$, yes. Does $$$ mean better? In this case, absolutely. We had 0 problems, mishaps, or difficulties with our case. It went smoothly. Beautifully. As beautiful as a giant mountain of stress can be. The mountain turned into a hill. The hill into a plain. And finally, our company was able to make the much needed change with the freed up cashflow from the stay, and from the debt restructure. If you're in doubt. Do it. I WISH I would have done it sooner. Don't be me. Just call.
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06 Jun, 2024 by Robert arthur
If you found yourself with a lawyer that promises you the world and promises top notch service just to be uncontactable after you paid the retainer, then you are in the same boat as me. I had another lawyer before coming to David Zolkin in a last ditch effort to save my company. The other lawyer was simply uncontactable after i paid the retainer. Their secretary would always take a message but i would never get a call back. And creditors don't wait. They are super scary and not being able to get a hold of your lawyer is super frustrating. Long story short. I cancelled the other useless lawyer and came to David Zolkin for some real help. David is a very kind and patient lawyer. He will not sell you the most expensive product unless he feels you really need it. He took the time to understand me and my business and we worked out a way without having to go through chapter 11. which would be really expensive and a win for the lawyer. Instead we focused on renegotiating with the creditors and to get some breathing room. David will be by your side. Not only that he will give you his person cell number and you can contact him anytime. And by anytime i mean anytime. He will always pick up and answer your text. He is truly a diamond lawyer and i can only recommend him to anyone that needs a lawyer for credit related issues.
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28 Sep, 2024 by Sarah
Leon was extremely kind, professional, thoughtful, and knowledgeable. I emailed asking for some advice regarding my husband's bankruptcy case, and he was able to give me really good advice without billing me for a bunch of unnecessary services. It was obvious that he is one of the best lawyers in his field, and possibly one of the best lawyers that you can go to in LA in general. If you have a bankruptcy case, don't hesitate to contact this firm.
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15 Mar, 2024 by Hank c.
Leon is a wonderful attorney who guided me through one of the most difficult periods of my life with knowledge and kindness. His support staff, especially Liz, are just as terrific and capable.
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07 Apr, 2023 by Anonymous
Leon and his team has been nothing but amazing! No one wants to make a choice to go through with bankruptcy, but sometimes, that's the only option available. My case was approved fairly quickly and the team answer all of questions throughout the process. My lawyer Leon readily offer for me to call him even on his days off - which I really appreciate. Being afraid and not knowing what to do, I was assured all the way. I highly recommend hiring Leon and his team! Do not attempt to do this bankruptcy process yourself!
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28 Jan, 2022 by Anonymous
I don’t typically write any reviews but Shiela was so Amazing from the initial consult to the end of the case that she deserves people to know what a professional, compassionate, kind attorney she is. If your looking for the best attorney than stop looking. I liked her immediately because she listened without any judgments, she didn’t rush me off the phone, she really listened to my case. It was so refreshing to find an attorney that was so good at what they do, make your feel comfortable, and pass zero judgements and care all at the same time. She gives you the facts, helps you understand what to expect which helped me so much. I found Shiela after my previous attorney really messed up a simple case for me and made it beyond complicated. Shiela solved the problem, where most attorneys wouldn’t even want to get involved with someone else’s mess, but she took the time, helped us and solved our case. We are so happy with Shiela and appreciate her very much. Thank you so much for all your help.
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16 Dec, 2021 by Neda
My nanny was having some issues and needed to file for bankruptcy. I immediately thought of Sheila and thank god I did. She helped her with her case quickly and smoothly. She was always available to answer her questions and let me bug her on off hours too. My nanny only speaks Farsi, Shiela spent the time to translate everything for her, which she was relieved and forever grateful for. Thank you Sheila for everything!
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19 May, 2021 by Robert
I cannot say enough good things about Sheila. She helped me through every step of the Bankruptcy process and went above and beyond the call of duty. She made the process easy from start to finish. She was always a call or text away to help me with any questions or concerns I had in regards to my Bankruptcy. I can’t thank her enough for her help and I highly recommend Sheila.
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10 Oct, 2022 by Natashia
I think Nick Bontrager was the best for me when I hired him. He is vary knowledge and professional. I really happy to work with him. If need again I will hire him. Highly recommend his work.
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05 Dec, 2021 by Anonymous
I contacted Martin & Bontrager Law Firm regarding creditor harassment calls. Nick and his team were absolutely exceptional with settling several cases successfully, they were dynamic, trustworthy, reliable, responsive and went above and beyond. They recommended Sanaz for support with filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy and worked together with her and her team to support me in the process. The entire team worked in cohesion and cooperation. My consumer debt was successfully discharged and I received money by settling a harassment cases by the great work of Nick andTom. I felt they looked out for me, crossed every t's and dotted every i's. Thank you so much! I highly recommend hiring them!
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06 Aug, 2019 by Justin
I had reached out to the firm after a collector... would not stop! 3-4 calls per day, you might have a similar situation; ?? and I must say the personalized and FAST service- was outstanding. The end result was better than hoped; and I know that if you take the time to consult with Nick and his firm- you have now found your attorney. Spare yourself the exhaustion of looking further. Seriously- I could not be happier with the whole process, their "attitude". Extremely professional- call them! Glad I did, you will be too. That was my experience.
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08 Apr, 2020 by Ira
He handles our objection to a bankruptcy and got it dismissed as a bad faith filing, which it was. He handled further proceedings on the judgment that provided the impetus for the bad faith bankruptcy and got the appeal dismissed. He is experienced, competent and responsive.
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03 Apr, 2020 by David
Ben is helping me collecting on a Judgment. He has is patient and thorough and always available to answer my questions through e-mail, text or just picking up the phone. I would highly recommend him to anyone looking a great attorney.
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03 Apr, 2020 by Swaneel
I would highly recommend Ben to anyone seeking legal representation that is fair and who wants someone that will keep your best interest and unique needs at the forefront. Honest, trustworthy and very straight forward is what Ben is. In unvarnished truth he will tell you exactly where you stand and what direction you should go. He has tenacity coupled with a degree of tenderness but never losing site of the end goal, which is to protect, defend and have the best outcome for his client. I will now only seek Ben and and Woolf & Nachimson's advise whenever a need arises for legal services and further counsel for any sort of business related issues. I would not hesitate to seek representation from Ben Nachimson again.
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12 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
He is great to work with and extremely professional and knowledgeable in his field. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for an overall extraordinary lawyer!
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02 Sep, 2015 by Anonymous
Thank you for showing me the end of the tunnel, I can't be happier with my situation now. Thank you so much and hope all the best for you too.
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30 Jul, 2024 by Evan
Efficient, caring, and thorough while going through any/all steps during our time working together. Eliza and her team were wonderful to work with, and I would without doubt recommend them to anyone. Very happy with their services.
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10 Sep, 2024 by David chavez
I can’t help to say that Jack and his team did an amazing job helping me through the entirety of my case and were always very attentive and proactive at giving updates and reaching out to update myself on progress. All of the staff were not only extremely kind but very knowledgeable concerning my case and were able to settle it with ease, it was evident that they take their job very seriously and are true professionals at what they do. If I were to ever be in need of their service again they would be for sure the ones to call. Overall service 10/10
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30 Aug, 2024 by Jashauna adams
Great firm, they helped me in my personal injury case and took care of everything! I felt well guided and they are very personable. Would recommend if you are seeking great representation.
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26 Aug, 2024 by Lupe weaver
A big thank you to the " Werner Law Firm " staff for assisting us. You all done a great job. Thanks to Grace, Alyssa, for taking time to return phone calls and answering questions. We really appreciate your time and efforts on us. Thank you very much!
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21 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
Sanaz and her team were great! This was a rough time in my life and they were there to get me through it and do what was best. They were always quick to respond and answer my questions. I would highly recommend them.
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20 Aug, 2024 by Anonymous
I hired Sanaz Bereliani to file my bankruptcy and i have to say. It was absolutely seamless. Shes is fantastic. She made it so easy and quick. I truly had such a great experience and am so happy with what she did for me. I highly recommend her!!!!!
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27 Jun, 2024 by Sun tzu
Bereliani Law Firm went beyond my expectations! Sanaz has a good team and thorough system to ensure your bankruptcy gets finalized. I am self employed, my case was more in depth. I interviewed several attorneys in San Diego and LA area and they were suggesting Chapter 13 and avoiding chapter 7 because of my equity in my home, they said I was limited on exemptions ie and my vehicle and personal property were at risk! Sanaz is very creative with creating and interpreting exemptions that the other attorneys NEVER mentioned and or understood, interpreting exemptions is very important, ie “Commercial Work Vehicle” (Truck) verses “vehicle”, that changed the game, the trustee wanted more money for my work truck and was also trying me on personal property and Sanaz put them in check! She got my Chapter 7 discharged, I kept my condo equity, I owed nothing for my commercial work truck and personal items. The other attorneys I interviewed were ok with having me agree to make an uncomfortable stressful payment plan to make it easy for them to file chapter 13…. Sanaz and her team tolerated all my calls and emails = STRESS and got me through it. Sanaz and her team are the ones you want to represent you!!! Worth every dollar!!! Thank you Sanaz!!!
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27 Aug, 2024 by Efe kiracı
Greetings can you please get back to me I have an urgent case I am short on time
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13 Jul, 2024 by Vadi efe
We had a consultation call with Mr Agopoglu - he is very helpful and gave us valuable feedback, including legal aspects, way of working and best practices in family law. Highly recommended.
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24 Oct, 2023 by Zyan
Bryan at Rodeo Law Firm is the best!! He was very reliable and very communicative. I felt comfortable asking questions and trusting the process because he would explain each step showing clear expertise in his work. I could not be more grateful for the efficiency and professionalism!
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14 Aug, 2024 by Christian macias
Excelente abogado rapido y economico tengo mi caso de visa u en ñas oficinas de huntington park numero dd caso 111760 atendido ppr AP
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09 Jul, 2024 by Daniela gil
Excelente servicio, mi caso salió tal como esperaba , muy capaces.
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21 Jun, 2024 by Tatiana ayala
Muy buen servicio.
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31 May, 2023 by Derek crownover
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10 Feb, 2023 by Martin mulvihill
Applied for a paralegal position here. Great group of people. Shout out to Paul & Alyse.
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26 Jan, 2022 by Quantum leap
Michelle LaMar is the most knowledgeable, intuitive, upfront, ten steps ahead attorney I've met in my 48 years in business. I literally would just say "HERE ARE THE REINS, you lead the way" if I ever were to need an attorney of her caliber. I sat in with a colleague and I almost asked her for an autograph as she just oozed superstar attorney..just my opinion and she did win his case.
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25 Jun, 2022 by Felicia ball lyons
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04 Jan, 2020 by Vincent shang
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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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. How long will the debt settlement process take?
    Get an estimated timeline for negotiations and resolution.
  5. Will you handle communications with all my creditors?
    Clarify whether the lawyer will negotiate with all your creditors or only specific ones.
  6. What happens if a creditor refuses to settle?
    Discuss alternative strategies if a creditor is uncooperative.
  7. How will debt settlement affect my credit score?
    Understand the potential impact on your credit and how to rebuild it afterward.
  8. 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.

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