Lawyers map
>19
experienced lawyers
Filter by
26 Jun, 2024 by Anonymous
Faced with the very difficult choice to choose bankruptcy for my parents was a challenge. Hiring Ann-Marie to oversee the process was the best decision made. She not only provided an excellent legal road map but also showed compassion and care for my aging parents. Great attorney and outstanding person!
Thank you
Todd Haag
Read more
26 Mar, 2024 by Omar burgos
Hi, this layer i hired for a very delicate situation was super profesional in all areas, super updated on laws and made my process go smooth, will highly recomed this layer to anybody with a financial situación .specially bankruptcy cases Shes TOP NOTCH LAYER.
Read more
30 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
I started the journey towards bankruptcy with trepidation and fear. My interview with Attorney Bowen left me feeling confident and optimistic about the process and outcome of such a difficult step. She was a guide that made the journey something easy, friendly and safe. I am greatly grateful for having been under her care for this process. Would recommend her above any other Attorney.
Read more
16 Feb, 2022 by Katrina williams
20 Feb, 2021 by Hugh bowen
Impressive and professionally done website. I know one of their partners so I really expected nothing less.
Read more
15 Dec, 2017 by Jay
Mr. Petersen is extremely knowledgable in consumer debt collection and consumer collection cases. Hired this attorney for an aggressive debt collector that had incorrectly reported to credit report and was calling continually, violating several laws. He was able to quickly resolve the issue and represent me in the court case. He thoroughly understands and defends consumer rights against these companies that will try to bully you while they knowingly violate laws, and I had utmost confidence in his handling he case. He is on your side as a consumer, and fee structure was very fair. I have hired numerous attorneys over the years for different needs, and for consumer collection and litigation he is the best I've hired, can't recommend enough.
Read more
15 Mar, 2022 by Nola
After months of trying to negotiate with my creditor- who refused to budge on their demands-they had added on $2,700 to the original debt for late fees. I could not pay what they were asking- if I could, I would have paid it to begin with. They finally filed to take me to court. I tried to mediate, but they refused and said they would seek judgement. I was in tears. I had just so happened to receive a letter from Bryan the day before offering his service. Something told me to contact Bryan. I am so thankful I did. Brian and his Mom were so helpful in explaining everything and listening to my problem. For a VERY reasonable fee Bryan got the collector to completely dismiss the debt. I owed nothing! And they agreed to remove it from my credit report too! God was watching out for me when he sent me to Bryan. Such a nice, honest man willing to listen and help. I would not recommend any other lawyer.
Read more
19 Aug, 2015 by Brian
He gave excellent advice for us and he Is a great attorney if you need a good attorney please choose him
Read more
29 Jul, 2015 by Terrie
Attorney Dangler exceeded my expectations. After both consulting with another firm and failing to take care of my debt lawsuit on my own, Mr. Dangler was able to have the case dismissed and I didn't have to pay anything to the debt collector.
Attorney Dangler maintained constant contact with me during the duration of my case, even going so far as to give me a congratulatory phone call when my son was accepted into college. He was very knowledge, blunt in in terms of which solutions were realistic, and guided me through the steps he took during the case in an effort to further educate me on the issues.
Should I need any help or advice when it comes to anything relating to debt, whether or not I absolutely need an attorney, I will be sure to contact Mr. Dangler to at least gain his insight into my options.
Read more
24 Feb, 2017 by Paul
Ms. Kwon did well with the handling of my speeding traffic case. She was able to get a reduction in my fine, adjudication of my charge and no points. I only had to take an advance traffic class.
Thanks ms. Kwon
Read more
14 Oct, 2024 by Amaury cabrera
Excelente abogado para resolver cualquier problema lo mismo sea de bancarrota que accidente le resuelve todo sus problema se lo recomiendo a todos que lo necesite me resolvió el mío y pueden confiar en ellos sin ninguna preocupación él se lo va resolver por muy malo que sea de resolver el mío era bien malo y sólo me dijeron no se preocupe váyase a la casa nosotros nos encargamos y así fue me
Lo resolvieron y ahora estoy sin preocupación y no los engaño acudan a esa firma de abogado se lo recomiendo sin mentira y engaños repito son excelentes abogados si algo me volviera a pasar no dudaría en acudir a ellos gracias Benenati
Read more
09 Oct, 2024 by Héctor ramos
Este lugar es espectacular los doy 100 ⭐️ el Abogado y su personal son altamente profesionales llegue a la oficina preocupado me ayudaron y rápido me resolvieron hoy estoy tranquilo y feliz gracias a Dios y a Benenati Law Firm!! 🙏🏻❤️ gracias de todo corazón!! No lo piensen Benenati son los mejores🙏🏻
Read more
02 Oct, 2024 by Ligia cruz
10 Oct, 2024 by Benjamin del campo
Super happy with the experiences I've had with this firm and it's employees. You have a client for life!
Read more
27 Sep, 2024 by Joan ressman
Great law firm with great people!
Read more
23 Sep, 2024 by Rubenn calixte
Best in town
Read more
22 Oct, 2024 by Sharron teed
Great experience! Kaydie was so helpful and was very pleasant to deal with.
Read more
21 Oct, 2024 by Kerlinda blaise
I am incredibly grateful for the excellent service provided by my lawyer and the firm. From the start, they were professional, attentive, and always had my best interests in mind. They kept me informed throughout the process, patiently answered all my questions, and fought hard to ensure I received the compensation I deserved. Their expertise and dedication made a difficult situation much easier to handle. I highly recommend them to anyone in need of a reliable and compassionate attorney!”
Read more
21 Oct, 2024 by Jorge biffa
En líneas generales el servicio estuvo bastante bien la atención del personal muy amable, mi única objeción es qué los gastos. Médicos superaron la cobertura de mi seguro , tratamiento que ha debido ser consultado antes de ordenarlo a los proveedores médicos, clo cual implicó una disminución del los pagos , por parte de la aseguradora del conductor responsable del accidente ,que aún no he recibido en su totalmente porque todavía se espera por más facturas médicas de tratamientos . Además esta reclamación a mi seguro de auto por gastos médicos aumentó mi póliza 165 $/ mes a más de 390 / mes.
Read more
10 Oct, 2021 by Donna
From the moment I contacted Mr. Turner he was prompt to address all my concerns and questions. He was very knowledgeable and guided us through the process from beginning to end. I would definitely recommend him and hire again if needed.
Read more
03 Aug, 2020 by Anonymous
I would highly recommend. Mr. Turner was great to work with. He responded to all of my questions and concerns in a timely manner and was always available. He was able to assist my specific situation successfully.
Read more
15 Jul, 2020 by Matthew
Mr. Turner has been amazing. It took a while but his persistent efforts where able to get my cases dismissed. The time was worth it and the fee was very reasonable. It feels great to have this burden off my back and Mr. Turner made it happen.
Read more
04 Oct, 2024 by Hans s
Finally Green card journey is over thanks to Attn.Kelly Urbano straightforward lawyer that I like praising and the case manager Olga Nieves what a great team I like the fact that they scrutinize all the paperwork to avoid any issues during the process and sure enough it only takes less than six months to get a positive outcome this Firm is the place for someone in need of an immigration solution to go I can not thank you enough for the great work by keeping us updated on the case on a regular basis
My wife and I are very happy
keep up the good work appreciate your help
Hans S
Read more
20 Sep, 2024 by Lee cooke
Five stars just aren’t enough to express my appreciation for The Closing Agent. I’ve worked with Daniel Worthy for years and glad to finally have the opportunity to brag on the quality of care he gives to my clients. From start to finish I am kept informed every step of the way. The sellers, buyers and the realtors that I bring to the closing have always had positive feedback. This is one of the most important steps in the real estate sales process and I would not entrust it to anyone else. Thank you Daniel and the whole team at The Closing Agent.
Read more
16 Sep, 2024 by Shakyra cortes mendez, pa
Amazing a smooth experience! They actually went out of their way to find a survey for my client when the seller didnt have a copy of it saving them almost $500! Would use again for sure! Thank you!
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Heithem hamdan
Mark Longwell is truly one of the best attorneys I've ever had the privilege of working with. His track record speaks for itself—100 out of 100! Wins! Every case feels like he's fighting for his own family, but instead, he's fighting for mine. Longwell Lawyers consistently delivers exceptional service, and I will continue to rely on Mark and his outstanding team whenever I need legal representation. Their reasonable pricing, prompt communication, and deep understanding of the law make them unbeatable. I highly recommend Longwell Lawyers to anyone seeking top-tier legal expertise without having to search through endless reviews—this is the firm you can trust to get the job done right.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Mipples gäloré
Update* first and foremost, I have not had time sharing with my son since I asked Mouse to file contempt. That was 26 days ago. This was the action that Longwell advised against. Then the moment he filed for withdraw, the opposing side figured they don’t have to follow any time sharing. They know he has my $, and they know I can’t hire another lawyer without that $.
Second, abusive? How does being disrespectful magically upgrade to abusive? Oh I wrote a review, so you lied. Get over it. Let’s define abuse. Improper use of something. You quit, you’re holding onto TWELVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, with zero legal ability to charge against it, and you refuse to return it to your former client so he can hire a new lawyer. That’s abusing funds. My pool boy returns the money within a week if he doesn’t provide the service.
Third, you did not call me Mr Longwell, which means you could not have left a message. If you did, prove it cause I can prove you didn’t. Why would you lie about something so trivial.
I’ve updated to include the most recent billing after they quit. It is an indisputable fact that they have now paid themselves more in one month to quit, than any of the other previous months they claimed they did diligent work.
I hired Longwell lawyers early 2021 for a paternity trial. It is August 2024, no parenting plan agreement. No Trial, Carson Mouser is withdrawing claiming I am rude and disrespectful. I never hired him, I had hired a different attorney in their firm and my case was eventually “assessed to benefit” from being appointed Mouser. I had no choice in the matter.
He had agreed to go to trial, I paid him $2000 to “prepare” and then Mouser requested $10,000 for trial. Eventually the opposition hired a lawyer and requested an update within 30 days or I was going to default. I sent an email to Mouser asking what I needed at the beginning of the work week. He never responded, at all. I sent him two more emails after the mother refused to exchange at the end of the work week, he didn’t respond. I had to call Mousers office, once he got on the phone I had asked him why he didn’t answer me and he said that I sent my email directly to him. My exact words were, “that’s a problem?” And Mouser said he’s done, he’s withdrawing. So I asked for a return of my money, he said to call the office.
I call the office and they tell me they will ONLY RETURN MY MONEY AFTER I SIGN CONSENT and then they have 90 days to return it after the motion is granted. I ask for my file and they said they only turn it over after withdrawing.
Let’s be super clear. They were paid since 2021 to go to trial. They have 12k specifically for trial. They have made their intentions clear they will NOT go to trial. But will NOT return money they do not intend to use. They are aware I have to respond to the courts within 24 days or I default.
Can you imagine your former lawyer holding onto the only $ you had for trial after they filed for a trial date, $ which they don’t even intend to use? I don’t make a lot of money. They know that though. I have been the sole provider for daycare for the entire year, and barely can pay that.
I see Mark Longwell has responded to a previous poor review about Carson Mouser. His argument will be I was rude and disrespectful. Even if your lawyers assumed I was disrespectful, their response is to blow the case for their precious client? Hold onto money I’ve paid for trial after filing for a trial? If anything I said here is untrue, you should sue me. Cause I’ve been left with the choice to either pay for a new lawyer, or pay for VPK.
$12,000 being held. 40kish more already wasted. I should have never hired them and fired them the moment they stuck Mr Mouse on the job without my consent.
I should have just bought oceanfront property in Colorado. The same exact result would be happening right now. No parenting plan, no trial, money for trial stuck with in a useless spot.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Joanna korgul
I can’t say enough about this firm. If you’re looking for an attorney that will make the most out of your case and is also compassionate look no further. This firm has the best attorneys in the area. They are always there when you need them and answer calls and e-mails right away. One of the attorneys in particular, Muna Abraham has gone above and beyond to fix something that was handled incorrectly by another firm. She not only fixed the issue in a timely manner, but kept touching base with us to make sure everything is going the way it should. She is extremely knowledgeable and updated in the changing laws and will work hard for you! Not every firm is the same, and if I could give this one a 10 star I would. Thank you so much!!
Read more
01 Oct, 2024 by Heithem hamdan
Mark Longwell is truly one of the best attorneys I've ever had the privilege of working with. His track record speaks for itself—100 out of 100! Wins! Every case feels like he's fighting for his own family, but instead, he's fighting for mine. Longwell Lawyers consistently delivers exceptional service, and I will continue to rely on Mark and his outstanding team whenever I need legal representation. Their reasonable pricing, prompt communication, and deep understanding of the law make them unbeatable. I highly recommend Longwell Lawyers to anyone seeking top-tier legal expertise without having to search through endless reviews—this is the firm you can trust to get the job done right.
Read more
20 Aug, 2024 by Mipples gäloré
Update* first and foremost, I have not had time sharing with my son since I asked Mouse to file contempt. That was 26 days ago. This was the action that Longwell advised against. Then the moment he filed for withdraw, the opposing side figured they don’t have to follow any time sharing. They know he has my $, and they know I can’t hire another lawyer without that $.
Second, abusive? How does being disrespectful magically upgrade to abusive? Oh I wrote a review, so you lied. Get over it. Let’s define abuse. Improper use of something. You quit, you’re holding onto TWELVE THOUSAND DOLLARS, with zero legal ability to charge against it, and you refuse to return it to your former client so he can hire a new lawyer. That’s abusing funds. My pool boy returns the money within a week if he doesn’t provide the service.
Third, you did not call me Mr Longwell, which means you could not have left a message. If you did, prove it cause I can prove you didn’t. Why would you lie about something so trivial.
I’ve updated to include the most recent billing after they quit. It is an indisputable fact that they have now paid themselves more in one month to quit, than any of the other previous months they claimed they did diligent work.
I hired Longwell lawyers early 2021 for a paternity trial. It is August 2024, no parenting plan agreement. No Trial, Carson Mouser is withdrawing claiming I am rude and disrespectful. I never hired him, I had hired a different attorney in their firm and my case was eventually “assessed to benefit” from being appointed Mouser. I had no choice in the matter.
He had agreed to go to trial, I paid him $2000 to “prepare” and then Mouser requested $10,000 for trial. Eventually the opposition hired a lawyer and requested an update within 30 days or I was going to default. I sent an email to Mouser asking what I needed at the beginning of the work week. He never responded, at all. I sent him two more emails after the mother refused to exchange at the end of the work week, he didn’t respond. I had to call Mousers office, once he got on the phone I had asked him why he didn’t answer me and he said that I sent my email directly to him. My exact words were, “that’s a problem?” And Mouser said he’s done, he’s withdrawing. So I asked for a return of my money, he said to call the office.
I call the office and they tell me they will ONLY RETURN MY MONEY AFTER I SIGN CONSENT and then they have 90 days to return it after the motion is granted. I ask for my file and they said they only turn it over after withdrawing.
Let’s be super clear. They were paid since 2021 to go to trial. They have 12k specifically for trial. They have made their intentions clear they will NOT go to trial. But will NOT return money they do not intend to use. They are aware I have to respond to the courts within 24 days or I default.
Can you imagine your former lawyer holding onto the only $ you had for trial after they filed for a trial date, $ which they don’t even intend to use? I don’t make a lot of money. They know that though. I have been the sole provider for daycare for the entire year, and barely can pay that.
I see Mark Longwell has responded to a previous poor review about Carson Mouser. His argument will be I was rude and disrespectful. Even if your lawyers assumed I was disrespectful, their response is to blow the case for their precious client? Hold onto money I’ve paid for trial after filing for a trial? If anything I said here is untrue, you should sue me. Cause I’ve been left with the choice to either pay for a new lawyer, or pay for VPK.
$12,000 being held. 40kish more already wasted. I should have never hired them and fired them the moment they stuck Mr Mouse on the job without my consent.
I should have just bought oceanfront property in Colorado. The same exact result would be happening right now. No parenting plan, no trial, money for trial stuck with in a useless spot.
Read more
09 Aug, 2024 by Joanna korgul
I can’t say enough about this firm. If you’re looking for an attorney that will make the most out of your case and is also compassionate look no further. This firm has the best attorneys in the area. They are always there when you need them and answer calls and e-mails right away. One of the attorneys in particular, Muna Abraham has gone above and beyond to fix something that was handled incorrectly by another firm. She not only fixed the issue in a timely manner, but kept touching base with us to make sure everything is going the way it should. She is extremely knowledgeable and updated in the changing laws and will work hard for you! Not every firm is the same, and if I could give this one a 10 star I would. Thank you so much!!
Read more
15 Apr, 2024 by Marian&stuart
They took good care of us when we really needed help. The attorneys and office staff are the best!
Read more
07 Feb, 2024 by Anne hamel
Leighton Law, Max Panoff and associates were wonderful and worked diligently to resolve my case in a timely manner.
Throughout this difficult time, they were always readily available to answer any questions and I had many.
I was very pleased with the outcome, and it will make my life a little easier. I just wish it would not have happened in the first place.
Thanks again to everyone I worked with at Leighton Law.
Read more
07 Feb, 2024 by Keyland davis
Great law firm with awesome service!
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
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
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
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.
