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12 Nov, 2019 by Anonymous
I hired Ellie Sweeney from the law offices of Michele Gibson in Encino to represent me in my divorce. She was recommended to me by a friend and I am very happy that I hired her. My Divorce turned out to be high conflict and was taken much further than it needed to go as we came to an agreement regarding the custody of our child early on in the proceedings. Ellie works very closely with Michele and they took the fear and uncertainty about my future away at our very first meeting. I left their office feeling positive about my situation for the first time in months. Throughout my divorce Ellie had to deal with two lawyers hired by my ex husband that she faced with courage and professionalism at all times. I always felt she did her best for me and was pleased with the outcome of my divorce as I felt it was fair. I would highly recommend either Michelle Gibson or Ellie Sweeney to anyone going through a divorce and custody situation and will not hesitate to contact them again in the future should my situation change.
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26 Apr, 2019 by Anonymous
Ellie worked tirelessly on my divorce case for over two years. Her knowledge of the case and Family Law enabled her to always make confident predictions, which was very calming and reassuring throughout this exasperating process. Her dedication and hard work led to the best positive outcome in my case. I think Ellie is amazing lawyer and recommend her without any reservations!
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04 Sep, 2018 by Corrie
Jelisaveta is one of the most amazing attorney's I have ever met. I was going through a terrible 3 year divorce. All the other attorney's only cared about racking up more fees. Not settling. A friend of mine recommended Jelisaveta. She was there for me 100%. She tried her best to keep fees down. She is very compassionate, smart, and knows which angel to approach any situation. These women are kind "Pit Bulls with Lipstick". When we finally went to trial, I will never forget Jelisaveta words "I am worried about you, do not worry. I have your back". She most certainly did. After my case if I was her I would quit! It was the biggest nightmare ever, and she stood by my side and made sure we prevailed. I strongly recommend her.
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05 Jun, 2016 by Valerie
Rick Baum guided us through a Chapter 13 bankruptcy and we felt supported every step of the way. Our first consult was a year before we actually filed; we thought we could "do it on our own" and when that effort was obviously not yielding substantial inroads into our debt, we went back and started the official process. I was so nervous (and ashamed!) about it all, but Rick was both candid and supportive. Over the five years of the "plan," he responded quickly whenever we had a question or needed his help. He also has a great sense of humor! We are now finally done; though the filing was necessary more than desired, we are quite relieved it is over and that we had such reliable, efficient, and effective counsel. We highly recommend a consult to anyone who really needs help with their debt.
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31 May, 2016 by Bill
Rick Baum was excellent from start to finish of a 5-year bankruptcy; from helping us to fully appreciate the tradeoffs of this versus other courses of action, through the mechanics of the initial filing and intermittent formalities along the way, to the final close of the case with the Trustee. We could always count on Rick to provide a prompt reply to any inquiry we had, to produce all relevant paperwork in a timely fashion, and to remind us that this too shall pass. I will not hesitate to recommend a consultation with Mr. Baum to anyone who is/must contemplate a bankruptcy filing.
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30 May, 2016 by Rick
Rick has represented me multiple times over the past 6 years. He has successfully negotiated favorable results (on multiple occasions) with an extremely unreasonable and difficult opposing counsel regarding a bankruptcy litigation case. Rick is both patient and knowledgable and a master negotiator. I will continue to use Rick and highly recommend him for any business or bankruptcy matter.
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19 Jan, 2012 by Craig
I was the executor for my mother's trust when she passed away in 2006. After checking around with friends seeking a recommendation for a good Estate/Probate attorney, all I can say is "Wow!" what a great recommendation I was given. One meeting with Andrew and I could tell what a person of character and integrity he was, and he did not disappoint during the entire two years it took to resolve the estate. One of my brothers created some difficulty during the process by refusing to honor our mother's will. Andrew guided me step-by-step through the process, recommended other good attorneys that were needed to resolve issues outside his area of expertise, and was there for me like a friend while performing his professional responsibilities with great care and knowledgeable ability. If there was an Excellent+++ rating, I would not hesitate to give him one.
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16 Jan, 2012 by Dennis
Andrew handled a complicated trust for our family and did an excellent job through out. The direction he provided was top caliber.
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13 Jan, 2012 by Barry
I’m a professional who is competent & confident in my area of expertise but often feel inadequate in dealing with our legal system. This has been the best experience and one of the few times that I have left the court room with a sense of being represented to the full extent. I would highly recommend this Attorney and his firm to anyone seeking a knowledgeable representation, honest communication and spirited advocacy.
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03 May, 2021 by Ed
Just consulted Mr. Kirby, finding him extremely skilled at identifing issues. I am very impressed!
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18 Feb, 2010 by Ken
I work as a title agent for a national company handling REO's so i need assistance on state guidelines, forms, and requirements while handling each state. Its nice to be able to contact someone who WILL actually respond to your question in a professional and timely matter. I Highly recommend Dean Kirby for your legal matters.
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16 Jun, 2009 by Anonymous
Dean came up with a very creative solution to our problem - He is easy to talk to, clever and very helpful. Highly recommended
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18 Aug, 2023 by Julia laplante
I had a good experience with Anton and his associate attorney Emilia. I would recommend this firm. Anton is very smart and fights for his clients. He came up with a very good strategy to defend me. The firm was financially reasonable but, most importantly, they took the time for me, took my case seriously, and treated me with kindness and respect. I have been through a terrible legal ordeal and Anton gave me peace of mind and advocated successfully for my rights throughout. I have had very disappointing experiences with other attorneys in the past. So I can truly say: When one finds a good attorney it is simply golden. Highly recommended.
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10 Aug, 2023 by Iryna bodrova
Professional, quick response and helpful for any questions. Nice and clean work with documents, mediation work just made the whole process simple and affordable. Highly recommend 😌
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10 Aug, 2023 by Timothy allen
Anton's office did a fantastic job handling my case, reaching out to both myself and the other party proactively and consistently throughout. He prioritized getting the divorce case handled without costly back and forth, and was able to come in significantly under budget. I will be recommending him to others without any reservations whatsoever. Thanks again Anton and Emilia!
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29 Sep, 2012 by Dave ramirez
I have known Anthony since 1997-1998. Anthony has one of the most nimble legal minds I have known in my career. Anthony has the ability to see past the surface of people and things to see their essence. He knows when to take good advice and also gives excellent advice.
He handled the legal mission I gave him with dispatch and it ended with a very positive result. I have been able to observe his handling of a number of other cases, and in short, he is the best bankruptcy and financial lawyer you can hire.
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03 May, 2011 by Leroy m.
Helped us with a simple chapter 7. Staff was very professional got an appointment within a few days and was able to keep my two cars def reccomend his office if you have debt issues
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02 Jan, 2011 by Anonymous
I dont even know where to start. A few months ago my debt was in the thousands and thought I was going to lose my car, house and even retirement. However, thanks to the Anthony and his law firm I am now debt free and was able to keep my house car and most of my retirement!!!! I cant thank him and his staff enough, both of whom were extremely professional and helped my get through some very rough times..thanks Anthony!
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14 Jan, 2023 by Kevin aiden
My recent experience made me understand that the credit score doesn’t matter nearly as much as the actual information in your credit report, few months ago I decided to buy a home suited for my family. I didn’t have the best track record with funds in my past and my credit profile was faulty, as expected my application got turned down. This is both a recommendation and an appreciation of the good job that PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST did for me. After reading various testimonies I decided to give them a trial. And believe me when I say they were up to the task as they cleared all the repos and negative items from my report. My report is squeaky clean. My score is now 803 this might sound sketchy but PINNACLE CREDIT SPECIALIST is a life saver, it’s almost like a miracle. MAIL:
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04 Dec, 2020 by Wilbert
Attorney Hebert Nathaniel Wiggins, MBA,J.D., was very astute and knowledgeable to ameliorate my California Property State Tax Lien dilemma.
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10 Nov, 2010 by Z
I went to seen many attorneys before meeting Attorney Zwick. He was very knowledgeable, compassionate and dedicated. He listen carefully to what I needed to say and then went to court to defend our case that was about to get thrown out of court and won a TRO and we are still in our home.
God bless him!
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10 Nov, 2010 by D m
I filed a complaint against the lender In Pro Per and after visiting another attorney in Los Angeles who took my case and didn't do anything for a month, a frien of mine referred me to Attorney Kenneth Zwick who was like an angel sent y God and saved my case.
He cares about his clients as much as his cases.
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18 Jul, 2024 by David
Shapero Law Firm succeeded where other law firm couldn't. Helped us get a new loan with low interest rate that now provided equity for my wife and myself. We are deeply grateful for Sarah's fine work on representing us against a foreclosing lender.
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18 Feb, 2022 by Anonymous
Precise in communications. Clear about options for actions and generally available for conversation when needed. Very responsive.
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04 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
My experience with Efren Limbag goes back several years. He is very personable and very reliable. He is always wiilling to take the time to explain a situation and all of the various options available. My experience was always with a favorable outcome.
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04 Jun, 2010 by Anonymous
My experience with Efren Limbag goes back several years. He is very personable and very reliable. He is always wiilling to take the time to explain a situation and all of the various options available. My experience was always with a favorable outcome.
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20 Dec, 2015 by Eric
With Kathleen's help and advice over several years she kept my family in our home that was threatened with foreclosure. She never gave up and was always there when the bank tried to make us give up our home. The foreclosure has been settled to our advantage due to Kathleen's deep knowledge of the legal aspects of real estate.
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29 Nov, 2015 by Karen e smith araujo
Kathleen O'Sullivan Mahan went above and beyond to fight for my rights in a real estate foreclosure matter, which led to a great outcome for me after a long case. She demonstrated tenaciousness, expertise, dedication, grit, and a heart of gold in the midst of it all. Just what was needed - a tough strategyzer who is skilled when dealing with the relevant laws and able to do serious battling with the other side without losing the human touch necessary to communicate effectively and remain connected well with me through a very difficult time that was taking quite a toll on me. She helped me through it and saw that I was not taken advantage of. I recommend her as THE attorney you want to have representing you when the going gets rough. Her many decades of experience and knowledge working on real estate law are highly valuable in securing a prevailing decision in your favor, in my opinion – a wise investment in you getting justice and a fair outcome like I did... AND - I'll never stand by tolerating another bad lawyer joke in my presence again. :-) I'm very grateful.
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13 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous
Ronald Ask made it very easy thru my BK. If you called him he would always pick up. And if he wasn't there his office could always help. They were all great.
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11 Oct, 2014 by Pauline
We were referred to Mr. Ask's office - Elder Law Center, P.C. by a close friend of mine. My siblings and I were looking for an attorney for our mother. She her health was failing and it was time for her to go into a skill nursing facility. My sisters and I inquired at several facilities and my friend told me that she hired Mr. Ask's office assisted her and her dad in applying for Medi-Cal Benefits and that Mr. Ask was highly knowledgeably in this area and in estate planning.
All of us met with Mr. Ask at his office and we immediately were very happy with the hospitality and generosity of Mr. Ask and his staff. Mr. Ask spent at least an hour and a half, well over the fee one hour consultation, to explain the process of medi-cal process and the asset protect process to preserve my mom's estate.
Me and My sisters are glad that we decided to hire Mr. Ask's office to help us and if ever asked for a referral of a excellent attorney, I would recommend Mr. Ask and Elder Law Center, P.C.
Wonderful Services and satisfy with the legal services we received.
Thank you.
Pauline H., Corona, CA
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25 Oct, 2018 by Traci i santiago
I call Jenny for free legal advice about a car accident I had. Even know she could not represent me she did give me some helpful advice. I recommend anyone to give her a call
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01 Jul, 2018 by Rose r
Spoken with Jenny Tiu. She helped me out through her consultation. Even though I didnt qualify for her services I did really appreciate and recommend her services. Jenny listens from what stand point you are coming from and what help you need by just explaining all. In the later future if I do need her services I will contact her first for help.
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5.0
2 Reviews
20 May, 2020 by Lydia
Have a problem with bankruptcy? There is a solution!
Attorney John Bauer is the solution to your problem.
He is an outstanding attorney as he is extremely knowledgeable and provides superior service.
His experience and understanding of how the system works is second to none.
John Bauer is a perfectionist, professional, and truly cares for his clients. I am 100% satisfied
with my experience with him. He has been a strong blessing in my life.
I was able to keep my hard earned investments, thanks to him.
I strongly recommend him to anybody! Thank you so much John!
John Bauer is not only specialized in bankruptcy cases, but he can handle other legal services as well.
- Lydia
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19 May, 2020 by Irineo
John Hart Bauer is excellent bankruptcy lawyer he help me to eliminate all my debt at a lower service charge. He is honest and good lawyer, he was direct to the point on my case
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22 May, 2018 by Anonymous
Manuel has been a pleasure to work with. He has helped us maintain hope in a difficult situation and would recommend him to anyone who has had issues with their lender or a loan modification. His staff has been professional and it looks like all sides are working towards a solution. We would not hesitate to recommend him to friends and family!
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22 Mar, 2018 by Rick
I couldn't be happier with Manuel's handling of my case. He was always willing to answer my many questions and made sure I was comfortable with the next steps. He got me an amazing settlement that I couldn't be more thankful for. Honest and knowledgeable from A-Z!
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11 Oct, 2012 by Mike l.
We've begun to work with Sean over last several years on landlord-tenant agreements. I appreciate that he stays current on the rapidly and ever changing laws. Sean knows how we think, and he’s a great resource to bounce around ideas. When decisions are made and projects begin, he’s very responsive. And on the occasion when further research is needed, I appreciate his ability to find the right answers for me.
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19 Oct, 2011 by Anonymous
I recently moved out of my home after renting for 7 years after receiving a 60 day notice to terminate residency from the new property manager who never answered emergency calls, didn't show up for meetings, etc.. I called Mr. Hanley to see what exactly my rights were as a tenant and what to expect if i did not comply with 60 day notice. He explained to me very simply the laws and rules of tenancy and was brutally honest about what the consequences would be if an unlawful detainer was brought against me. He did this at no charge to me over the phone, wished me luck and offerred his services if I needed it.
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25 Feb, 2016 by Daniel
I met Dennis at his office in Pasadena because my lender was going to foreclose on my home. I had no where else to turn and I was desperate. What impressed me was that he had a huge team at his office that listened to me, and they knew exactly what my bank was doing and reassured me that they've done this before. They outlined a strategy and I felt relieved. I really felt that I had a team behind me. Anyways, the result was that they found some bank errors which effectively blocked the foreclosure, and it forced them back to the bargaining table. We are negotiating a new loan and it's so much better then what I could of ever hoped for.
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30 Nov, 2015 by Patty
I am a Real Estate Broker and a client of Denis Rasmussen and the Real Estate Law Center.
Four of my clients and I have retained the services of his firm " The Real Estate Law Center" The expertise and experience of his staff are exceptional. All four of us were so thrilled with what a great Job Denis and his staff had done, we are excited to write this review and refer our family, friends and anyone who needs help. Denis Rasumessn and The Real Estate Law Center firm does superlative work. We can't thank you enough !
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30 Jan, 2015 by Anonymous
Great people! They were all extremely helpful and down to earth. Did not make me feel bad about my situation. They were very understanding and extremely helpful in explaining everything to me. Although I don't wish this on anyone I strongly recommend these guys if you ever find yourself in this terrible situation. They are definitely who you want on your side.
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17 Nov, 2009 by Maria
i used him for our chapter 13 bankruptcy and for getting rid of the second mortgage in our home. He was great and fast at what he was doing. I recommended him to 3 other people that have hired him to do thir ch. 13 as well
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19 Oct, 2016 by Zenda & zeus
Awesome lawyer. Took special interest in my case he is handling. I felt he was very helpful and really cared to help and go a extra mile to fight for me.
I really appreciate all you do.
Thank you,
J
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05 Jan, 2015 by Donastacm
Attorney Gaddis and his associate, Doug Duey helped me with a problem with PNC mortgage that I had been attempting to deal with for one year. They resolved it favorably for me in a few hours.
Thank you Michael Gaddis and Avvo.
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19 Feb, 2014 by Sonja
I was referred to Gabriel by another attorney to review a Real Estate contract. I needed a fast turn around. He reviewed it for me over a weekend and while on a trip, how is that for service? I felt assured that the transaction I was entering was indeed a good one.
Many Thanks!!
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02 Mar, 2011 by Jim in santa cruz
I retained Mr. Mendivil to represent me in a landlord/tenant dispute. I found him to be knowledgeable, focused, and empathetic to my concerns. He reviewed the pertinent documents, assessed the facts and asked relevant questions before succinctly explaining my options. At my request, he prioritized my options and made recommendations
I followed his guidance and the result was extremely favorable; in addition, he was conscious of time and billable hours and minimized costs to me.
I have found Mr. Mendivil to be an excellent attorney. He is even-tempered, approachable, and easy to work with. His ethics are beyond reproach and yet still he has a "will to win". I am delighted with all aspects of the professional service and representation I received from Creighton and I recommend him unconditionally.
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12 Feb, 2012 by Jose
I was referred to Stan by a friend of mine. He did a very good job. I had no problems on my case.
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03 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous
Diana and her team helped with a foreclosure matter and was extremely fast and attentive in every step she took. She contacted the bank only a day after signing retainers. She sent demand letters, had her team escalate, process, audit, validate all the debt the lender said was owed. Luckily, there were multiple strategies Diana was able to use and found a permanent resolution.
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05 Apr, 2013 by Anonymous
Eric has been a great help in articulating the arguments in my case. He is a blessing to all those who are going through the traumatic experience of foreclosure, and I recommend him and his firm to anyone who needs help.
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12 Apr, 2020 by Anonymous
Christine Fitch is one of the kindest people I’ve met. When it come to bankruptcies, she is very thorough and considerate of the emotions that accompany such a task. I give her my highest recommendation.
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05 Jun, 2012 by Anonymous
What a great group of people the Kostopoulos team is. They were the most prepared lawyers at our trustee meeting. They helped me through the most difficult time in my life And didn't let me feel like a failure. I have my life back! I will never forget their kindness .
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12 Sep, 2013 by Anonymous
He is great to work with and extremely professional and knowledgeable in his field. I highly recommend him to anyone looking for an overall extraordinary lawyer!
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07 Mar, 2014 by Mr
Fantastic attorney - excellently handles all my legal affairs. Provides multiple routes, analyzes pros and cons of each, and executed a plan of action like a bull dog. Very humble and highly regarded, also speaks to the human element - he always made me feel, no matter how small some of my issues were, like I was his foremost priority. I would highly recommend Mr. Veracruz, and would continue to seek him all of my future endeavors first.
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08 Jan, 2014 by Anonymous
Yes, I would certainly recommend Mr. Mercer for legal service; and I have. After my lender denied my loan modification, I was lost and in fear of losing my house. Mr. Mercer has successfully helped many borrowers as myself in a difficult hardship situation and so what better person to go to than someone that has proof.
For the average person who pays a monthly mortgage, losing a job can be very devastating. That is exactly what happened to me. Although I was fortunate to find another job, my new salary was less than my previous job, which made it very difficult for me to meet my mortgage payments. My financial hardship is one of the criteria’s to qualify for a loan modification so I applied with my lender. After a 3 month process of miss guided information, my loan modification was denied by my lender. Refusing to accept losing my home as an option, I decided to seek alternative options.
I came across many counsel services soliciting their guarantee to help but when I called, the people I spoke to were telemarketers with a serious sales pitch. This is when I spoke to my cousin who was successful in modifying his loan and referred me to a lawyer in Sacramento by the name of Eric Andrew Mercer. I called Mr. Mercer, scheduled to meet in person, and the rest was history. During our initial consultation, Mr. Mercer was very clear and concise with the task in hand and the next series of events that is about to unfold. Throughout the whole litigation process, all mortgage payments were seized and most importantly, the end result was everything we hoped for and more. Mr. Mercer successfully modified our loan with a staggering new APR rate of 2%; not only that, about 1/3rd of the total principal was reduced. My family and I are very pleased with Mr. Mercer for saving our home and we cannot thank him enough for his services.
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers
What a Foreclosure Lawyer Can Do for You
A foreclosure lawyer specializes in helping homeowners navigate the legal complexities of foreclosure, working to protect their rights and potentially save their homes. Foreclosure lawyers assist homeowners facing foreclosure by negotiating with lenders, filing legal defenses, and representing them in court. They also help with loan modifications, short sales, and other alternatives to foreclosure. Whether you’re behind on mortgage payments or already in foreclosure proceedings, a lawyer can help you explore your legal options and work toward a solution.
If you’re at risk of losing your home, a foreclosure lawyer can provide guidance on how to stop or delay the foreclosure process and protect your financial future.
When Should I Hire a Foreclosure Lawyer?
You should consider hiring a foreclosure lawyer in several situations where you are facing financial difficulties with your mortgage. Common reasons to hire a lawyer include:
- Facing foreclosure proceedings: If your lender has initiated foreclosure proceedings, a lawyer can help you file a legal defense and explore options for stopping or delaying the process.
- Loan modification: If you want to modify the terms of your mortgage to make payments more manageable, a lawyer can help you negotiate with your lender and ensure that the modification complies with legal standards.
- Challenging the foreclosure: If you believe your lender has violated foreclosure laws or the terms of your mortgage agreement, a lawyer can help you challenge the foreclosure in court.
- Stopping a foreclosure sale: If your home is about to be sold at a foreclosure auction, a lawyer may be able to file for a temporary restraining order or injunction to halt the sale.
- Short sale or deed in lieu of foreclosure: If you cannot afford to keep your home but want to avoid foreclosure, a lawyer can assist with arranging a short sale or a deed in lieu of foreclosure, where you voluntarily transfer ownership of the home to the lender to avoid foreclosure.
- Filing for bankruptcy: If you’re unable to manage your mortgage debt and other financial obligations, a lawyer can advise whether filing for bankruptcy might stop foreclosure and help you restructure your debts.
Hiring a lawyer as soon as possible - especially when foreclosure is imminent - can provide you with more legal options to save your home or limit financial damages.
What Does a Foreclosure Lawyer Do?
A foreclosure lawyer provides a variety of legal services to homeowners facing foreclosure, working to protect their rights and help them avoid losing their homes. Their responsibilities often include:
- Negotiating with lenders: A lawyer can negotiate with your lender to modify your mortgage or create a repayment plan, helping you avoid foreclosure by securing more favorable terms.
- Filing a legal defense: If your lender is improperly foreclosing or has made errors in the foreclosure process, a lawyer can file a legal defense, challenging the foreclosure in court. Defenses may include violations of foreclosure laws, predatory lending practices, or failure to follow the terms of the mortgage.
- Representing you in court: A lawyer can represent you in foreclosure proceedings, whether you are defending against the foreclosure, seeking more time to negotiate with the lender, or filing for bankruptcy.
- Stopping or delaying foreclosure sales: If your home is scheduled for a foreclosure auction, a lawyer can help file a motion to stop or delay the sale, giving you time to explore other options.
- Advising on bankruptcy: A foreclosure lawyer can assess whether filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy would be beneficial, as bankruptcy can temporarily stop foreclosure and give you time to reorganize your finances.
- Arranging short sales or deeds in lieu of foreclosure: A lawyer can help facilitate a short sale (selling the property for less than the mortgage balance) or a deed in lieu of foreclosure (transferring the property to the lender), which may allow you to avoid the foreclosure process.
How Are Foreclosure Lawyers Paid?
Foreclosure lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the case and the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:
- Hourly rate: Many foreclosure lawyers charge by the hour, with rates typically ranging from $150 to $500 or more, depending on the lawyer’s experience and location.
- Flat fee: For specific legal services, such as negotiating a loan modification or filing a bankruptcy petition, some lawyers offer a flat fee. Flat fees can range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the scope of the work.
- Retainer: In more complex foreclosure cases, especially those involving ongoing negotiations with lenders or court appearances, a lawyer may require a retainer. This is an upfront payment that is billed against as the lawyer works on your case.
- Contingency fee (rare): In some rare cases, particularly when suing a lender for wrongful foreclosure, a lawyer may work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win the case or settle on your behalf.
It’s important to discuss fees and payment arrangements with your lawyer upfront, especially if you are facing financial difficulties.
How Much Does a Foreclosure Lawyer Cost?
The cost of hiring a foreclosure lawyer depends on the complexity of the case, the lawyer’s experience, and the amount of time required to resolve the issue. General cost estimates include:
- Hourly rates: Foreclosure lawyers typically charge between $150 and $500 per hour. For example, a simple case with 10 hours of legal work at $300 per hour would cost $3,000.
- Flat fees: For straightforward services such as filing for bankruptcy or negotiating a loan modification, flat fees typically range from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the complexity of the work.
- Retainers: In more complex or ongoing foreclosure cases, a lawyer may require a retainer ranging from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the length of the case and the lawyer’s experience.
In addition to legal fees, you may also need to cover additional costs, such as court filing fees or expenses related to property appraisals.
Top Questions to Ask a Foreclosure Lawyer
Before hiring a foreclosure lawyer, it’s important to ask key questions to ensure they have the necessary experience and approach to help you. Key questions to ask include:
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What experience do you have with foreclosure cases?
Ensure the lawyer has experience handling foreclosure cases similar to yours and has successfully helped homeowners avoid foreclosure or negotiate better terms. -
How do you charge for your services?
Clarify whether the lawyer charges by the hour, a flat fee, or requires a retainer, and ask for a detailed estimate of the total cost of their services. -
What are my options for stopping foreclosure?
Ask the lawyer to explain the different legal strategies available for stopping or delaying foreclosure, such as loan modifications, filing a legal defense, or bankruptcy. -
What is the likelihood of success in my case?
Ask the lawyer for an honest assessment of your case and the chances of successfully avoiding or delaying foreclosure. -
How long will the process take?
Foreclosure cases can vary in duration, so ask the lawyer how long they expect the process to take and what factors might affect the timeline. -
Will I need to go to court?
Ask whether your case is likely to settle out of court or if a trial may be necessary. If a trial is possible, ask what steps the lawyer will take to prepare. -
What steps can I take to protect my home?
Ask the lawyer for advice on steps you can take to protect your home, such as making partial payments, negotiating with your lender, or exploring foreclosure alternatives.
How to Check the Credibility of a Foreclosure Lawyer
To ensure you are hiring a reputable foreclosure lawyer, take the following steps to verify their credentials and experience:
- Check their bar status: Verify with your state bar association that the lawyer is licensed to practice law and has no disciplinary actions against them.
- Look for foreclosure experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in foreclosure law and have successfully handled cases similar to yours.
- Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for reviews on platforms like Avvo, Martindale-Hubbell, or Google to see what previous clients have said about their experience with the lawyer.
- Ask for references: A reputable lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who have worked with them on foreclosure matters.
- Check for certifications or memberships: Look for lawyers who are members of organizations like the National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA) or who have specialized certifications in real estate or foreclosure law.
What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?
To get the most out of your first consultation with a foreclosure lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:
- Mortgage documents: Bring a copy of your mortgage agreement, payment history, and any correspondence you’ve received from your lender, including foreclosure notices or demand letters.
- Financial information: Provide information about your income, expenses, and debts, as this will help the lawyer assess your financial situation and determine the best legal strategy for your case.
- Previous communications with your lender: If you’ve already tried to negotiate with your lender, bring any emails, letters, or records of phone calls that document these communications.
- Court documents (if applicable): If foreclosure proceedings have already begun, bring any court documents related to the case.
- Questions about your legal options: Prepare a list of questions about the foreclosure process, your options for avoiding foreclosure, and how the lawyer plans to help you.
By preparing thoroughly for your consultation, you can help the lawyer assess your situation more effectively and provide the best possible legal advice for protecting your home from foreclosure.
