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29 Mar, 2022 by Jeffrey
Mr. Christman, explained everything in simple terms about the whole process with both chapters of 7 and 13 bankruptcy. Any time we called with questions either Mr. Christman or someone from his staff called us back in a quick and timely manner. I would highly recommend Mr. Christman.
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20 Jul, 2021 by Franced
With all my many questions Mr. Christman was always both available and took time to make sure I understood. The whole process which I thought would be complicated went very smooth. I especially want to thank Jane who was extremely kind helpful and patient. Because I was so impressed I referred my sister !!
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24 May, 2021 by Shannon
Mr. Christman and his staff helped me get my finances back on track! They were always accessible to answer any questions I had and very attentive during the entire bankruptcy process. I have since recommended others to use his services. If you're looking for solutions to your debt, give Mr. Christman a call!
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03 Dec, 2018 by Anonymous
Monica Guilarte is incredibly knowledgeable and professional. She was always very responsive, easy to work with and she kept me updated every step of the way. I will recommend her again and again.
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08 Mar, 2018 by Ty
When I consulted with Ms. Guilarte she told me she could get my trail date pushed up sooner. & when I hired her she did just that & got It pushed up 3 weeks sooner. Got the case dismissed & expunged off my record along with some other cases from my past. I highly recommend her and will not be calling anyone else but her in the future.
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22 Dec, 2017 by Brian
I had a very complex matter regarding my drivers license and the MVA due to legal circumstances . After consulting several local “big time” firms they all said the same thing- “you won’t be able to drive..it’s not going to happen...get used to Uber..etc” I approached Monica and never hesitated in her optimism to get the job done and navigate the brutal MVA hearing/rules process. When everyone else said “no” Monica said “yes” and now I am back on the road moving forward with my life. And on top of everything Monica didn’t charge me what the “big guys” were trying to charge for services. I am truly thankful
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20 Mar, 2017 by Jerry
If you have the opportunity to work with Wayne Clark, take it. Please take the time to read this review.
My wife and I were recently forced into bankruptcy and we were also wrongfully accused of committing a fraud in a business deal that led to our bankruptcy. The plaintiffs sued knowing that we did not have the financial resources to defend ourselves. Their reason for such an action is irrelevant here. I was forced to try and defend us without a lawyer.
Our case was complicated; I went weekly to the free legal clinics at the law library in Annapolis and attempted to educate myself in the subtleties of the legal systems. The task was daunting. During that time I talked many attorneys to get help, but we could not afford their services.
I met Wayne at the free legal clinic at the bankruptcy court in Baltimore. He gave me a lot of helpful advice and went back to perusing our case. A few months later I again visited the legal clinic and fortunately for me; I once again met Wayne. I asked if he could guide me in preparing my case.
I wrote a few motions and I asked Wayne to review them. He not only did he review my work; he assumed control of writing the motions I was seeking. He interviewed me and reviewed our documentation at length and he believed in me and our case. He knew that the plaintiffs did not have a creditable case; as he instructed me proving it is a different matter.
He took on this case with an energy and commitment that astounded me. Although he had other cases, he still made me feel as if our case was always at the top of his mind. He seemed to work day and night, he would call me at night, on weekends and during holidays. He pushed me hard to produce the documents that he knew we would need for the case.
As anyone can imagine this case was a very emotional and stressful ride for both my wife and I. Wayne was very good at taking the emotional anger out of the discussion and more importantly he was never afraid to tell me how it was and to take me task.
When we finally got to court, it was obvious that the plaintiff's case was without merit and they agreed to settle out of court by dropping the case. Without Wayne's help, I would have lost the case even though the plaintiff's case was without merit.
If you have the chance to work with Wayne, take comfort in knowing that you dealing with someone who will give you honesty, integrity and commitment.
There are not enough words to describe our gratitude for having Wayne assist my wife and I with our case. If you have the chance to work with Wayne, Take it!!!
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14 Mar, 2017 by Anonymous
Hello I just want to say I called the Civil hotline for free attorney advice. Mr. Wayne Clark picked up and after I explained my situation as far as all of the loan modifications that I have been doing with my bank and their denials. I also explained to him that in a panic state one night, I hired an attorney off a commerical and paid him almost $3,000 to help with a loan modification that was denied. Not knowing that the attorney had possibly done something wrong Mr Clark advised me what I needed to do to get my money back from that attorney. Mr. Clark also advised me in approx 1 hour what I was fearing all along. See I had been fighting to save my home for almost 2 years, thinking I could. He asked me questions and evaluated my salary the home loan as well as the value of my home. In doing that he gave me an assessment of why the bank probably kept dening my loan modification and he made me realize that unless my income increased substantially like ASAP that my chances of saving the home was not great, that was the honesty do I need it. All I did the past two years was kept fighting and the amount of my past due balance increasing, and the bank was letting it happen. The bank has given me unrealistic expectations based on my salary and the likelihood that I would be able to catch up on the past due balance. For the first time in 2 years I was hit with the best reality check that I needed. I went to my church and prayed with my pastor and then contacted a realtor who basically advise me of the same thing. I did exactly what Mr. Clark told me to do and contacted the attorney, told him to give me my money back within one week and if he did not the steps that I was going to take in getting the money back. That attorney panicked to my surprise and did not fight me. I had my money within 4 days honestly, I could not believe it, I thought that money was lost and gone and thrown down the drain. I'm now prepared to move forward and start again. I'm so thankful to Attorney Clark because basically my funds were gone and he helped me get my money back free of charge with his advice. I truly feel he was a God sent and I would refer him to anyone anytime and any day. Thanks again Attorney Clark for all your help, bless you.
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09 Mar, 2017 by Doriann
My husband and I were faced with bankruptcy due to a failed business deal. We were being sued by my husband's partners and had NO WHERE to turn. Our original attorney had been disbarred and we didn't have any more money to hire someone else. We met Wayne through the legal services offered in Baltimore and he GRACIOUSLY agreed to represent us!!!!! He worked diligently from September through to March when we had our trial. He was able to negotiate a settlement of our case. Wayne is compassionate, detailed and very hardworking. He was able to explain options in language that we could understand. We were SAVED by Wayne and his expertise
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06 Feb, 2016 by Jim
If your are experiencing problems with debt or facing a difficult time in your life you must contact Mr. Gilman immediately. Our house is worth far less than the amount we owe on it and we must relocate. He listened intently to all of my complicated issues, completely understood them, explained ALL of my options, and gave sound advice on the best way to tackle my problems. After my initial consultation with Mr. Gilman I was able to sleep peacefully for the first time in a long time.
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03 Dec, 2014 by Cheryl
Mr. Gilman has been my attorney since 2009. He has been very honest and ethical in his dealings with me when filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy so that I could begin to rebuild my finances after a major job loss. He was able to secure a loan modification with my mortgage company when after repeated efforts I had been unable to. Through my subsequent financial upheavals he has continued to work with me to assess my situation and to determine reasonable options to help me regain my financial footing. He has become an invaluable resource for me, and I continue to rely on him for accurate information, ethical treatment, and expert legal representation.
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03 Dec, 2014 by Ken
Rich is straightforward, polite and instantly put me at ease in a very uncomfortable situation.
He is well respected, came highly recommended and I absolutely trust that he will guide me through this situation and I will come out the other side.
I would easily recommend Rich to anyone.
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13 Dec, 2021 by Deborah
Attorney Ben Is An Excellent Immigration Attorney, He Was Always Available Whenever My Husband or I Called, Mr. Ben Always Advised My Husband & I With Knowledge. My Husband And I Are Pleased With Mr. Ben, My Husband And I Are Satisfied Clients
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05 Dec, 2020 by George
One of the most professional lawyers I have ever worked with. Ben responded to me whenever I needed him. His approach to my case was clear, straight forward and reasonable. He is flexible and considerate. I would highly recommend anybody to Ben. Thanks for everything.
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04 Apr, 2020 by Phyllis
After so many years of frustration and hopelessness of my immigration case, I finally got a break through thanks to Ben Akech.
Ben is a very knowledgeable and excellent Immigration Attorney. I really appreciate Ben’s professionalism, dedication, responsiveness, attention to details, honesty and friendliness.
It was a great joy to work with Ben. I highly recommend Ben for all your immigration matters.
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25 Feb, 2013 by Kelly
Tiffany was very quick to respond when we had questions regarding our adoption case. We struggled with the attorney we were working with in our daughter's birth state and Tiffany helped to get the answers we needed. We would highly recommend Tiffany and hope to use her services for our next adoption case.
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13 Sep, 2024 by Gloria
I had the pleasure of consulting with Attorney Stephanie Lynn Royal regarding a legal matter, and I am beyond grateful for her expertise and compassion. Even though I ultimately did not have a case, she took the time to fully explain everything, answering all my questions without rushing or cutting corners. Her knowledge and attention to detail were evident from the start, and I felt truly heard and understood. She handled my situation with care and empathy, which helped me come to terms with the outcome and move forward with peace of mind. I highly recommend her to anyone seeking professional, compassionate, and thorough legal guidance.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Roderick
I was harassed by Stillman Collection Agency for an erroneous Barclay’s debt in excess of $5,000.00. They had no justification for harassing me other than I had a similar name and birthdate. I hired Ms. Royal who took on these two large Companies and immediately issued a Cease-and-Desist Order and forced them to prove the debt. Ms. Royal determined that the debt belonged to another individual with a different SS number and lived in a State I never had residency.
These companies are unethical and ruthless and you need someone like Ms. Royal who knows their obligations under the law, as well as your rights and will take companies to task regardless how big they are and how they will try to bully you.
Ms. Royal forced them to correct their records and my credit was never in jeopardy. Every time I emailed for an update, her response was immediate and substantiative.
Ms. Royal is a passionate assertive advocate that gets results.
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31 Jul, 2024 by Anonymous
Stephanie is very responsive. She gives honest opinion and recommends practical resolutions. I’m mostly impressed that she always responded my emails right away. She is also very humble and respectful. Highly recommend.
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02 Oct, 2024 by Drew
Don’t recommend using for criminal cases poor communication, handled case how he wanted, constantly requested money but had no communication with case.
(Edit+ attachments) after leaving the review this is what Mr.Burrell had to say for himself
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17 Sep, 2024 by Sky h
I was blown away with how Sabrina handled my case. I did not go into my case expecting that much could be done, but she ended up exceeding my expectations. My serious charges were dismissed and lowered. I was not expecting that. I am so impressed. I can not recommend her more!
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17 Aug, 2024 by Robert bellamy
Excellent job, Did an amazing job, from my knowledge from one of the toughest judges. I'm very pleased how I was represented
R. Bellamy
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19 Sep, 2024 by Alejandra blogs
Estoy muy contenta y alegre con los resultados el abogado super amable y muy atento a todo recomendado al 100
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16 Sep, 2024 by Brenda mendoza
Es un buen abogado me ayudó mucho en mi caso de un accidente de mi carro y lo bueno Sabe hablar español lo recomiendo
EMMANUEL
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13 Sep, 2024 by Cruzroadservice cruz
This is a great people to help
Ireland really recommend it
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11 Jun, 2024 by Tanya gospodinova
Based on published reviews for Sari Kurland, I hired her for a help and paid $5,000.00 retainer in February 2024. I request a few times appointment, and she refused to meet with me. As of today no word from her, no bill and no refund. We are all stun by her dishonesty.
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27 Mar, 2024 by Angie felix
My mother accumulated a lot of credit card debt which I discovered upon helping her with finances and her health following a stroke. Due to her stroke, she was unaware of the gravity of this situation. Paying off her debts were increasingly becoming a huge burden to her financially as she also needed to be cared for at least 75% of the day. Upon researching and contacting local law firms handling bankruptcy cases, we discovered the Kurland Law Group. An initial contact from their office was quickly followed by an initial phone conference with one of their attorneys, to determine the type of bankruptcy my mother would qualify for. Following the phone conference, emails were sent to inform my mother and I the procedure, the contract, and paperwork requirements. While the process seemed to take a long time, as long as we provided all the information required, the Kurland Law Group was quick to do their end of the process. There was always good and clear communication. They made the bankruptcy process seamless. Attorney Hope and her assistant thoroughly briefed my mother prior to the meeting with the creditors. Because of the Kurland Law Group’s help, my mother now feels more responsible with her finances, thinking more meaningfully before spending. We highly recommend the Kurland Law Group’s services. They are a valuable asset to our community, for those who have a similar problem.
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22 Nov, 2023 by 2023 tom & nora lemus
They were great from Start to finish. They sent me forms and assisted me along with way promptly when I had questions. On the day of meeting with the creditors, I couldn't get Zoom or the phone number to work. Because Hope was in the meeting as well, she got both myself and the Creditor on speaker phone to complete the process. I would recommend anybody to use this firm if you need to file with bankruptcy. Thanks, Tom L.
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5.0
2 Reviews
4.8
58 Reviews
06 Sep, 2024 by Eyob tesfaye
I had an excellent experience working with Flynn Title. The entire staff was professional, friendly, and made the home purchase process seamless. They were highly organized, and I would strongly recommend them for any title-related services.
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04 Sep, 2024 by Sadashiv patil
The staff at Flynn Title were very responsive and excellent in explaining the process. The closing was so smooth with Greg Flynn. He explained each every item on Closing Disclosure. I would highly recommend them.
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27 Aug, 2024 by Emma geiger
Everyone was so friendly, professional and responsive.
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26 Apr, 2024 by I b
I definitely recommend Raymond! He goes above and beyond with his clients. Raymond was extremely patient with me. He thoroughly communicated everything he was doing, and was attentive when I had questions. Regardless of when I had questions, Raymond was always available to answer my questions to the best of his ability. I will be recommending Raymond to family and friends if and when we require his services! Thank you once again, Raymond, you've been amazing!
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21 Mar, 2024 by Kimberly hanson
Mr. Raymond is punctual!
He responds in a efficient manner, he will follow up or ask for consent prior to making executive decisions. He provides in depth services. He goes the extra extent to provide a reasonable or WIN outcome. I would highly recommend his law office to a friend.
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18 Mar, 2024 by Gary frank
Excellent attorney I had a VOP charge and he told me what he needed and took it from there
The results were so much better than expected. He did an incredible job in court
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5.0
11 Reviews
4.7
67 Reviews
08 Jul, 2024 by Linda b.
Working with Stu Grozbean and his team, Jaime, Joe, and Charlotte was such a positive experience while going through a painful time in my life a divorce.
The team was with me during the entire process. Stu and his team answered all my calls and questions immediately making me feel like I was their only client. The entire team is intelligent, strategic, compassionate yet aggressive. Stu was on vacation during my last hearing and to my surprise both Stu and Jaime were there. My anxiety always eased when I saw the two of them. I can’t say enough or thank them enough for everything they have done for me. I am forever grateful to this team because of Stu’s forty plus years’ experience, expertise, intelligence, strategic mind, and respect in the law community I can live happily ever after divorce. This team made my ending a beautiful beginning.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Td
Stu’s unwavering support, profound professionalism, and extensive legal expertise were instrumental in successfully closing my case. His impeccable reputation and broad professional network proved to be invaluable assets.
What truly sets Stu apart is his client-centric approach and genuine understanding of the urgency and significance of his client's legal matters. Stu's unmatched availability and responsiveness, no matter the hour or day, demonstrated commendable dedication. Whether it was 3 a.m. on Tuesday, 11 p.m. on Friday, or 7 a.m. on Sunday, he was always there to review the case. Every call was promptly answered, and updates and guidance were provided efficiently. His meticulous attention to detail ensured my case received the care it deserved.
I wholeheartedly recommend Stu to anyone seeking a dedicated, highly skilled attorney. His exceptional services left a profoundly positive mark on my experience. Working with Stu has been an absolute pleasure, and he is truly in a league of his own.
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08 Jul, 2024 by Santana drums
Years ago, I went through an extremely difficult time in my life which ended in divorce. If I might add, an extremely difficult divorce. Had I not have chosen Stu and listened to his advice, I wouldn't have prevailed. He is extremely knowledgeable, and professional. Look no further than right here.
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12 Jun, 2022 by Naveed sheikh
Best attorney and legal advisor
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30 Dec, 2021 by Andrew
Like many other 1099 Employees, circumstances and just plain Life had me trying to clean up 17 years worth of IRS issues. I received Mark's phone number from a friend and have never once regretted it.
His expertise, paired with his ability to effectively explain the what and how of Offer In Compromise Settlements helped prepare me for the long, often slow process of Tax Burden Relief.
Things to note: like the rest of the World, Covid has created challenges for every Sector of life pertaining to dealing with the IRS. Please pay close attention to the initial first (and second) Consultations. The IRS is short on Employees so correspondence will most likely be slower than One would like to think. Don't be afraid to take notes, and PLEASE remember that we are in the midst of a Global Pandemic and remember the hierarchy of Contact seeing as On Site Services and times are altered in lieu of Covid. If your quandary is important, call his cell! If it's a Secondary or Tertiary request- email. Mr. Kell does not waste time with polite call-backs devoid of the answer to your question...but HE WILL call you back and he WILL effectively explain the answer to your question/s.
Do everything he tells you to do as promptly as possible, and rest assured that you have selected the Top Attorney to help you resolve your tax issues with success the closest thing to a guarantee as possible in any Offer/Acceptance situation.
Lastly, YOU MUST convey any pertinent information up front regardless of whether or not you think it matters.
Thanks again Mark, you're an AMAZING ATTORNEY and I can't thank you enough for your services and hopefully future services moving forward.
Andy Sunell
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01 Jul, 2021 by Alicia powers
Best lawyer in the whole state of Maryland !
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05 Jul, 2024 by Urania williams
Wonderful service if it wasn’t for the attorney I had I would not know where I would be right now
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01 Apr, 2024 by Jhon valero
08 Dec, 2023 by K m
They are amazing 🤩 attorneys and Staff Paralegal they are wonderful God bless them 🙏🙌
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23 May, 2017 by Anonymous
Mr. Kavanagh as well as Mr. Kevin Mitchell are very unprofessional and unpleasant to work with. Had a case in which they had my license suspended and the court closed the case, Mr. Kavanagh and staff that work to represent Geico have yet to resolve this issue so I can obtain my license. It has been almost four years. They still insist on a payment after the court has closed the case, which to me is underhanded and against the law.
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05 Sep, 2014 by Melissa
Still waiting for this office to collect a settled claim from City of Baltimore that is 2.5 years old. Consistently get "run-a-round" on phone. Receptionist indicates that we must speak with attorney directly for updates yet he always seems to be "out of office" and "unavailable". Never heard of an attorney that doesn't have staff to answers these types of questions. However, staff is probably frustrated at getting the angry client calls and refuse to be the "gate keepers" any longer. I don't blame them. Very, very frustrating! Very poor representation of Geico with respect to their choice in legal representation.
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08 May, 2014 by Peggy and vincent
I was actually the defendant in a case for which I was sued. Although Attorney Thomas Kavanagh represented the plaintiff, he treated us with the utmost respect. It was a pleasure working with him in finding a solution that worked for the plaintiff as well as myself. He was very responsive to our inquiries. We could not afford legal representation but he did not take advantage of the situation. I'm truly grateful to him.
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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
-
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.
