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Kathryn Ursula Tokarska, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in San Diego, CA with 48 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
44,14
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
3 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
45 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Jan, 2025 by Michael vizcarra
The best lawyer Antón, he is a very prepared person with a lot of wisdom and knowledge of the laws, very professional.The results were extraordinary from the beginning of the process to the end. I totally recommend it he is the best of the best Thank you very much
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07 Oct, 2024 by Laura carrillo
Estoy extremadamente agradecida con el abogado Antón es una persona muy preparada con mucha sabiduria y conocimiento de las leyes, muy profesional y a la misma vez muy humano en su forma de comunicarse con la familia. Su presentacion en las cortes y su presecia tambien es muy imponente. Los resultados fueron extraordinarios desde el inicio del proceso hasta el final. Lo recomiendo totalmente con ojos cerrados Gracias, gracias, gracias
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07 Oct, 2024 by Fernando carrillo
I just want to thank Lawstache Firm.In our most difficult time you have been an Angel in disguise, very professional communicative and efficient, We are very,very happy with your service because you deliver real results. Also the presence you have in court is incomparable. Thank you so much from our family to your Firm. Sincerely
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Brian Crozier Whitaker, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 7 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,22
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
7 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Aug, 2018 by Lance
While going through a very nasty divorce (3 years and counting), my ex took control of my business and stopped paying all debt I co-signed for including community property debt. I was faced with the decision that nobody wants to make.... I had to file bankruptcy. I met with numerous large, medium and small law firms. Most meetings were with either a sales person with little knowledge or a paralegal. Having done my own research, I quickly learned that each time I was given bad advise and pressured to "sign up before it's too late". I came across Brian via Avvo and scheduled a meeting. Expecting to meet with another sale person or paralegal, I was pleasantly surprised to meet with Brian himself. I kept him busy with question after question during a meeting that lasted almost an hour. He never rushed me or made me feel like I was wasting his time. In fact he kept asking if I had further questions for him. He seemed to like the rapid and numerous questions I kept throwing at him. He had answers to the questions nobody else did and knows bankruptcy law inside and out. Some other firms I met with told me I had to have my divorce finalized before I could file. However, Brian was the only one with the knowledge and expertise to get my Chapter 7 filed and discharged. My case was not a simple one as my ex attempted to block my discharge and I had numerous creditors due to my business and assets. However, Yuri and Brian got it discharged with no problem. Both Brian and Yuri are the only attorneys I would recommend. If you have a simple or complex bankruptcy, I would not recommend anyone other than Brian and Yuri. The entire law group couldn't have been better to deal with! Don't waste your time like I did with bankruptcy "mills", sales people and paralegals. I simply can't say enough about how great Yuri and Brian are...... They will take good care of you!
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09 Jun, 2017 by Norma
Great service reasonable price brian & staff answered all my questions. I would recommend to my friend's and family.
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16 Jun, 2014 by Anonymous
Brian Whitaker/Yuri Simpson and his staff were there every step of the way. It was very refreshing to work with attorneys that would respond to every detailed question in an exceptionally prompt manner. I appreciated there fair reasonable rates. Do not hesitate to let them help you with your challenges. You will not be dissapointed. I cannot thank them enough for there due diligence.
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William Francis McDonald, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 260 reviews
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
43,13
star star star star star
4.9/5
Avvo
4.5
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.9
258 Reviews
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22 Jan, 2025 by Andrew cook
The customer service was excellent. My questions were always answered promptly, and my case was handled professionally. I truly value their services.
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22 Jan, 2025 by Dilip ladwa
Everyone at The Law Office of Bradley was professional, organized, and informative. They handled my case promptly and efficiently.
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13 Jan, 2025 by Nicholas howard
The Law Office of Bradley was a blessing, handling my case professionally as expected from a top law firm. I will use them again—thank you for everything!
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Jake Allen Walton, experienced Consumer Protection, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 21 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,22
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
19 Reviews
star star star star star
30 Dec, 2023 by Robert hoadley
Skip has represented me twice. Both experiences were educational, professional, and perfectly successful.
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08 Nov, 2022 by Parker harris
Skip and his assistant are unprofessional and wasted my time. They didn’t remember facts of case or even the conversations around it. Set up multiple appointments which they cancelled last minute. Highly recommend seeking other counsel.
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22 Dec, 2021 by Jean notte
So far he's an excellent attorney. Spoke with him directly, he spent some time gathering. Info on my initial call himself. Scheduled in person consult within a week during that phone call. Left me with some research to complete to further my position. So far he is right to the point, gets things done; a roll up your sleeves and plow through it kinda lawyer. I like it and hope it stays this "full steam ahead".
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Jorge Halperin, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 17 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,19
star star star star star
4.6/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
4.6
16 Reviews
star star star star star
19 Aug, 2024 by Ruben talamantes
Michelle is amazing, Having to deal with my legal issues was stressful. I don’t know what to expect. When I met Michelle for the first time she was easy to talk to, answered all my questions and explained how things would go each step of the way. She was always available to answer my questions. I feel like she worked really hard to help the judge understand my situation and took time to write an extensive client report that was helpful and supportive to my case. I often refer her to my friends and family. I hope I never need her again, but if I do I would definitely work with Michelle!
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16 Aug, 2024 by River tepetla
Ms.Reynoso advocates fearlessly and is dedicated to her clients. During very difficult times she assisted in walking me through the legal process with clear and expert advise. Reynoso Law made me feel safe and protected and I highly recommend to anyone needing their services
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18 Jul, 2023 by T
This review is long overdue. A dissolution is an extremely emotional and draining process period. The best thing you can do for yourself and for your child may not just be to get a divorce, but to work with a firm that genuinely cares about your circumstances and will fight tooth and nail for you. I get emotional just reflecting on how much more I got out of my dissolution than I could have ever imagined if it weren’t for Paul, Liz, and Linda. These 3 ARE the light at the end of the tunnel. Who you work with MATTERS, especially if you’re involved in a high-conflict divorce with children involved. Do what’s best for yourself and your children and retain this firm. I am writing this with tears because of how grateful I am to have these 3 incredible attorneys by my side every step of the way.
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John Michael Given, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 104 reviews
Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,11
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
104 Reviews
star star star star star
16 Jan, 2025 by Jessica arguilez
What was the problem that you had before you called our law firm? I had many issues with my Vehicle but most of all trying to get a call back from an attorney was the hardest thing. So many out of area attorneys not very helpful was the WORST!!!!! Why did you pick our law firm over all the other lemon law firms? I picked SAN DIEGO LEMON LAW, PC because not only did they answer my call the first time but they were extremely knowledgeable, professional but most of all caring and compassionate to my situation. What did we do for you? SAN DIEGO LEMON LAW, PC helped be through my case, answered all my questions but most of all they did the right thing and got me what was owed to me. What was the outcome? Attorney Doug and his team won my case and did it with the upmost professionalism. How did this outcome affect you? I was able to purchase another vehicle, hopefully this one works…...
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10 Dec, 2024 by Harv jaffe
I bought a factory-certified 2017 Kia Sorento in fall 2018 from a local dealer. In June 2023 at 55,000 miles, I first noticed a burnt oil smell when driving my car. The Kia developed an oil consumption problem and started burning 1-quart of oil internally each week, without any external visible trace. I took my car to the Carlsbad Kia dealer, who performed all the service on it, and explained this latest problem. I brought it there several times through the end of 2023, hoping for resolution. While still under factory warrant, the dealer said there was little they could do for me. They advised me to drive the car until the engine died and gave me the phone number to report my problem to Kia America HQ. Likewise, Kia America pushed back and said I need to resolve it through the dealer. Feeling frustrated, I filed a complaint with the federal highway agency, NHTSA. In January 2024, a family member had problems with a new hybrid Jeep Wrangler he bought and enlisted help from San Diego Lemon Law attorney Doug Sohn. That family member encouraged me to contact Doug’s office to see if they could also help my case. In late January, I followed-up and filed an inquiry on the law firm’s website. One week later, they contacted me to set up an initial background call with attorney Doug Sohn. I explained the whole problem to Doug who said he’d research this problem with other Kia owners and report back to me if he felt we had a valid case. In February, Doug contacted me after his research, he felt I had a valid claim and agreed to take my case. We held a brief follow-up call to review how their firm proceeds on these cases, how valuation of my vehicle and their compensation works, and sent me forms to sign. His staff asked me to submit several documents about my purchase of the car, title, service receipts, etc. Two weeks later, Doug provided me with initial draft of his letter to Kia America, outlining my case as supported by his research of this oil problem with Kia and Hyundai vehicles. His letter requested that they buy back my car, based on my damaged engine and unreliability of the frequent need for oil. In April, my relative settled his claim with Jeep through Doug’s help and received full reimbursement for his problematic new vehicle. In May, we received Kia’s acceptance of Doug’s proposal to buy back my Kia Sorento. I was overjoyed, with a great sense of relief on that news. The law firm warned me that Kia is not the fastest to resolve these cases and said it would take about 120 days to be completed. As I drove the car for another four months, I kept replenishing oil into the engine every 1 to 2 weeks based on my driving. The car was becoming more unreliable, and it actually blew a cylinder during my last month of ownership. By October, Kia finally arranged a date for me turn-in my car at the local Kia dealer, working with a 3rd party firm who handles these arrangements for Kia America. In early November, the law firm received payment from Kia, and Doug sent my check for agreed settlement amount. Overall, I was extremely pleased with the law firm’s detailed follow-through and steady communication. The staff kept me informed regularly on the progress of my claim. If you have a ‘lemon’ problem with your vehicle, I highly recommend contacting San Diego Lemon Law Attorney. Doug Sohn has decades of experience dealing with auto makers on their defective vehicles, and he’ll fight on your behalf to make it right for you! You’ll lay out No Funds for their service, as they are reimbursed by the auto manufacturers. Client: Harv Jaffe, Oceanside CA
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10 Dec, 2024 by Diana swanepoel
Sotera provided excellent service to us for estate planning. Her knowledge and experience is evident in the caring, detailed and clear step by step guidance she provided through the process. We can definately recommend her.
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Ned Evan Tolbert, experienced Debt Settlement, Insurance attorney in San Diego, CA with 2 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,06
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
2 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Such an amazing and outgoing person who always made sure to keep me well informed, Ned showed constant due diligence of my case and was quickly able to get too heart of the problem that would have ruined my case and instead completely flipped the switch to make what I thought was my biggest problem into my biggest asset to easily get my case settled with a result far exceeding my expectations. This man seriously changed my life
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12 Sep, 2022 by Billy
Ned seriously has super powers since he did the impossible for me and got me the biggest possible settlement more than I ever expected. You are my hero thanks for changing my life for the better!
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Wsewolod S MacPete, experienced Business, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
39,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Mar, 2016 by Robert
We have worked with Sev MacPete regularly for more than ten years. In that time, he has always proven responsive, knowledgeable and patient with our questions. He has written numerous contracts, negotiated nearly all of our agreements and reviewed proposals. Sev is an exceptional verbal communicator. Highly recommend his representation in the telecom industry.
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Sara Fatehmeh Khosroabadi, experienced Consumer Protection, Credit Repair attorney in San Diego, CA with 79 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
37,68
star star star star star
4.8/5
Google Maps
4.8
79 Reviews
star star star star star
22 Jan, 2025 by Kaylee belay
The attorney was very nice and knowledgeable. I only had a conault so far which is why I only have 4 stars but great advise and helpful.
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16 Jan, 2025 by Coloni brown
Grateful for this woman owned firm who took the time to listen to my concerns and outcome desires. Thank you so much for helping families heal after tragedy and your honest advice.
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17 Dec, 2024 by Ed stoughton
These folks are awesome. Attention to detail and know their stuff.
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Shad Cavoulas, experienced Business, Consumer Protection attorney in San Diego, CA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2014 by Rebecca
She handled our issues with integrity and a great deal of kindness. I can't say enough about her. She works very hard and keep you informed when needed.
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Scott Allen Fleming, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 1 reviews
Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
35,03
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Mar, 2015 by Abel
Who has not ever been in situations in which good legal and financial counseling has saved the day? Scott is one of those attorneys at law that you can put your trust on. Knowledge and integrity, the two ingredients of an outstanding counselor in financial and domestic law is what he bears as an emblem. Thanks to his advise we are where we are now. Thanks, Scott, and we wish you continued success in your practice.
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Jonathan Blair Haskett, experienced Debt Settlement, Estate Planning attorney in San Diego, CA with 1 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,57
star star star star star
1.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
24 Sep, 2024 by Melissa
Zero out of 10 recommend Mr. Haskett. My experience with him was disgusting. I had to deal with perverted comments and unsolicited sexual advances made by him on countless occasions. But on top of that, the man stole my retainer money and did not do ONE minute of work on my case which caused me to not only lose my case but go bankrupt. I will see to everything in my power that this man no longer is able to practice in the state of California but in the meantime, DO NOT HIRE JONATHAN BLAIR HASKETT!
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Richard Ei Chang, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Sergio G. Chaidez, experienced Consumer Protection, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Ravi Krishna Sakthivel, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Katie Susan Knell, experienced Bankruptcy, Credit Repair attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Daniel Guinn Shay, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
star star star star star
28 Oct, 2024 by Jake
Daniel and his team are amazing! They are amazing at what they do and they more than get the job done. I would give more stars if I could. Can't say enough great things about these guys. They are professional, friendly and prompt. If you value all those things in a firm, look no further!
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Bernard Martin Hansen, experienced Bankruptcy, Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
4,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Diane C McDowell, experienced Debt Settlement attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
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Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
star star star star star
0.0/5
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Bruce Brittin Fisher, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in San Diego, CA with 0 reviews
Below Average
info
Lawyer credibility rating system is an internal lawyer evaluation system developed by the company based on a comprehensive analysis of more than 10 indicators. The rating can range from 0 to 100.
0,00
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0.0/5
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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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