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Michael D. O'Brien, experienced Foreclosure, Litigation attorney in Portland, OR with 17 reviews
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39,53
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5.0/5
Avvo
5.0
17 Reviews
star star star star star
03 May, 2021 by Anonymous
Mike informed me of my options and made suggestions based on what was best for me. He made me feel comfortable with no judgment which was a big deal as I was judging myself for being in this situation. I have referred him to several people and will continue to place my trust in him and his services.
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31 Jan, 2021 by Anonymous
Mike O'Brian and his team were a breath of fresh air during a stressful time. From the initial meeting, I realized the depth of knowledge he had in his field and the attention to detail he has for his clients. This put me at ease. His team kept me well informed, on-pace, on-point and ready for every step. They were always responsive, kind and helpful. Also, I liked that they educated me though out the process so my expectations matched reality. I am so thankful.
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09 Jan, 2021 by Terry
I am so appreciative of the excellent help, competency, and kindness I received from Michael O'Brien and Ted Piteo! I spoke with 7 bankruptcy firms, and because of my particular type of debt and amount of assets I have, none of them had a solution that helped me out - I was very worried about financial hardship without bankruptcy. Finally, I found O’Brien and Associates, and they were the only firm in the entire state of Oregon that had first-hand experience with a new part of the Chapter 11 code (subchapter V) – this is the route we took to succeed in my bankruptcy. I worked with both of the firm’s attorneys, Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Piteo. They are both highly qualified and competent, with complementary strengths that make them an excellent and formidable team. They are just honest, good people – I’d enjoy having them as neighbors! Both Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Piteo have a high degree of integrity, and I trust them both. For example, at one point, I understood Mr. O’Brien to have made a billing commitment, and when I saw something that seemed to not match that commitment, I called him up and we worked it out in a mutually acceptable, reasonable way that left me trusting him more. My case was moderately complex (at least for a small business owner such as myself), and both Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Piteo did an excellent job of assessing potential weaknesses in my case and explaining potential outcomes, so I always felt secure knowing what potential pitfalls might come and how to deal with them. Mr. O’Brien did high-quality and skillfully-nuanced settlement negotiations with one of my creditors (my ex-wife). Mr. Piteo represented me during the pendency of my case in bankruptcy court. He did an excellent job of negotiating with one of my creditors to ease the way to getting my plan confirmed. He also was timely with answering my questions, and allaying my concerns by providing me with honest, accurate information. An added bonus is that Mr. Piteo is lively and fun, which made the entire process easier to handle, and I even enjoyed it! Mr. Piteo did such an excellent job of litigating my case in bankruptcy court, to the point that the judge gave her ruling at the end of the hearing, and we won everything we proposed in the Chapter 11 reorganization plan. He also did an excellent job preparing me to testify, both with specific questions he’d ask me, and how to handle combative questions from my ex-wife’s lawyer. I am so relieved I found O’Brien and Associates, that I could trust them, and I am very grateful for their great care, competence, and help in my 100% successful bankruptcy case. They delivered as they said they would, without surprises, and I highly recommend them.
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Issei Christopher Saida, experienced Foreclosure, Real Estate attorney in Portland, OR with 11 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.
39,01
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
11 Reviews
star star star star star
05 Sep, 2024 by Sean wonnacott
Yadira Ramirez is an excellent attorney. I was blindsided by false sexual assault allegations. Yadira was always calm, cool and collected. I felt she had my best intentions. She had a lot of patience when I got angry or upset because I didn't understand how the courts work, or how lawyers communicate with the courts, and also the laws. I felt more at ease once when she thoroughly explained how court proceedings take place. Although, I could not ever be fully at ease because of the implications in my case. We had evidence that showed my innocence. But even with that, I still felt anxiety because of how inconsistent the courts in America are. Yadira could have told me that I had a airtight case and that we were going to win in court. But she was honest and said that courts are unpredictable and that she can't guarantee a victory. Which I understand. But she also said that we do have good evidence and that would show favorably for me in court. Court was set for a Friday, and on Monday my accuser decided she wanted a consent agreement. I did not know what that was, and Yadira thoroughly explained what it was. The first draft of the consent agreement their attorney sent Yadira was bogus and unfair. Yadira told me to stand firm and not accept the terms. Yadira redlined the document an added language in my favor. Their side sent back another agreement, and Yadira once again said to stand my ground and not accept it... So finally 2 days before we're supposed to go to court. My accuser and her attorney caved and gave in to our terms and a much more favorable consent agreement, which ended up in a dismissal of my accuser's restraining order against me... I was extremely anxious and nervous the entire time, 3 months of absolute hell. Yadira gave me my life back and restored a little faith in the legal system. There are lawyers out there that 100% care about their clients and Yadira is absolutely one that cares. I recommend Yadira for any legal matters regarding restraining orders. Thank you Yadira
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29 Apr, 2024 by Tiffany millikan
Thomas Ybarra is a highly organized and knowledgeable attorney and I'm so grateful for his attention to detail when it came to my divorce proceedings. He was always honest with me about what to expect and also heard me when I told him what I wanted/needed. He was able to successfully argue my position for sole custody of my two children, secure me spousal support and child support, and negotiate an agreement that allowed me to keep my house. His attention to my case was constant and I could always get ahold of him when I needed advice. I highly recommend Mr. Ybarra's counsel if you are looking for representation in a divorce or child custody case. He knows the law and is able to explain how the process works. He made my very volatile divorce bearable and having him in my corner was a complete godsend. No one truly wins in divorce, but in my case he got me a big win on paper. Grateful for his representation.
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08 Jun, 2023 by Valeria mallett
Thomas Ybarra has been an amazing lawyer for my case. Thomas is a great listener and knowledgeable about family law. Thomas made me feel very supported throughout the process. I would highly recommend Thomas as a lawyer.
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Gregory Joseph Miner, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Portland, OR 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.
39,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
11 Jan, 2020 by Avishai meyer
Great food with plenty on vegetarian options. Exceptional service
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Theodore James Piteo, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Portland, OR with 20 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.
38,22
star star star star star
4.8/5
Avvo
4.8
20 Reviews
star star star star star
07 Jan, 2024 by Anonymous
Mr. Piteo was amazing to work with. My elderly mother was scheduled for an eviction hearing within a week or less. I called more than a dozen lawyers but they either said it was too late or they were just too busy. Mr. Piteo was able to find a way for my mother to keep her house. I would recommend Mr. Piteo because he is great to work with, he knows his stuff, and his service is worth way more than what he charges. He is a lifesaver. And our family will be forever grateful.
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09 Jan, 2021 by Terry
I am so appreciative of the excellent help, competency, and kindness I received from Michael O'Brien and Ted Piteo! I spoke with 7 bankruptcy firms, and because of my particular type of debt and amount of assets I have, none of them had a solution that helped me out - I was very worried about financial hardship without bankruptcy. Finally, I found O’Brien and Associates, and they were the only firm in the entire state of Oregon that had first-hand experience with a new part of the Chapter 11 code (subchapter V) – this is the route we took to succeed in my bankruptcy. I worked with both of the firm’s attorneys, Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Piteo. They are both highly qualified and competent, with complementary strengths that make them an excellent and formidable team. They are just honest, good people – I’d enjoy having them as neighbors! Both Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Piteo have a high degree of integrity, and I trust them both. For example, at one point, I understood Mr. O’Brien to have made a billing commitment, and when I saw something that seemed to not match that commitment, I called him up and we worked it out in a mutually acceptable, reasonable way that left me trusting him more. My case was moderately complex (at least for a small business owner such as myself), and both Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Piteo did an excellent job of assessing potential weaknesses in my case and explaining potential outcomes, so I always felt secure knowing what potential pitfalls might come and how to deal with them. Mr. O’Brien did high-quality and skillfully-nuanced settlement negotiations with one of my creditors (my ex-wife). Mr. Piteo represented me during the pendency of my case in bankruptcy court. He did an excellent job of negotiating with one of my creditors to ease the way to getting my plan confirmed. He also was timely with answering my questions, and allaying my concerns by providing me with honest, accurate information. An added bonus is that Mr. Piteo is lively and fun, which made the entire process easier to handle, and I even enjoyed it! Mr. Piteo did such an excellent job of litigating my case in bankruptcy court, to the point that the judge gave her ruling at the end of the hearing, and we won everything we proposed in the Chapter 11 reorganization plan. He also did an excellent job preparing me to testify, both with specific questions he’d ask me, and how to handle combative questions from my ex-wife’s lawyer. I am so relieved I found O’Brien and Associates, that I could trust them, and I am very grateful for their great care, competence, and help in my 100% successful bankruptcy case. They delivered as they said they would, without surprises, and I highly recommend them.
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01 Apr, 2019 by Andrea
I cannot recommend this firm highly enough. When I came in for my consultation, I was at the lowest point of my life. I feeling very scared about my future ahead and had a lot of shame about considering filing for bankruptcy. From the beginning, I was impressed at the level of care and empathy that was shown to me by everyone at the firm that interacted with. I am forever grateful for this firm. Lauren was always available to answer my questions. Ted especially was an amazing advocate for me and always made sure that I had access to all my of options and was able to make informed decisions. I never thought I would ever have so much trust in an attorney and always felt like he had my best interest at heart. Six months after my initial consultation, I feel confident that I made the right choice for myself and am able to move ahead in this new chapter of my life. I have this firm to thank for that, and have already recommended them to several people I know who are considering filing.
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Timothy J Murphy, experienced Business, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 152 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.
36,19
star star star star star
5.0/5
Avvo
1.0
1 Reviews
Google Maps
5.0
151 Reviews
star star star star star
13 Dec, 2024 by Aleah kennedy
Father and son duo made a great team. They were friendly, informative, and always called me back or emailed me back when I had questions. They helped me resolve a car accident with 3 different car insurances and all of them paid out the maximum amount. Thank you Friedmans!!
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06 Oct, 2024 by Leslie petcher
In representing us, the lawyers were persistent, professional, and patient. They accommodated our needs and explained both the relevant law and how processes would apply to our case. They saw our case through to the end and worked through each step and "curve-ball" along the way. We hope we will never need their services again, but we would never hesitate to call them if we do. They have our highest recommendation as attorneys for anyone in need of representation for a medical malpractice case.
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23 Sep, 2024 by Samantha klopp
I had an excellent experience working with Jon Friedman. From the moment I contacted them, I felt supported and confident that I was in the right hands. Jon was incredibly knowledgeable, professional, and always made sure to keep me informed about the progress of my case. He took the time to thoroughly explain every step of the legal process, answered all of my questions, and made me feel like a priority. I highly recommend Jon to anyone in need of a personal injury attorney. They genuinely care about their clients and go above and beyond to achieve the best possible outcome!
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Elizabeth Risbrough Lemoine, experienced Foreclosure, Government attorney in Portland, OR 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.
35,00
star star star star star
5.0/5
Google Maps
5.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
03 Sep, 2022 by Mindy quinn
Awesome attorney. Very knowledgeable. He definitely fights for you.
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Christopher J. Mertens, experienced Bankruptcy, Consumer Protection attorney in Portland, OR with 35 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.
33,32
star star star star star
4.3/5
Avvo
5.0
12 Reviews
Google Maps
4.0
23 Reviews
star star star star star
29 Jun, 2024 by Diane barr
Great to work with. She was instrumental in helping resolve a collections case. I would highly recommend.
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26 Jun, 2023 by S
We had an unfortunate experience that needed dealing with and Chris was thoughtful, patient, and went above and beyond to help resolve our issue. Would definitely recommend!
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14 Apr, 2023 by Brandon moye
Terrible, dishonest, disgusting, Big B
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Stephen Philip Arnot, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Portland, OR 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.
32,00
star star star star star
4.0/5
Google Maps
4.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
26 Apr, 2020 by Elaina batey
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Lewis T Farmer, experienced Business, Family Law attorney in Portland, OR with 10 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.
28,65
star star star star star
4.2/5
Avvo
4.2
10 Reviews
star star star star star
20 Nov, 2023 by Mode
This attorney is your 100% Bernie Sanders attorney, if you want to have affordable housing being narcotics replete with all the violence and said people with the "right" to be that way then this is your attorney--narcotics addicts should consider him their #1 mob attorney.
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14 Nov, 2022 by Anonymous
I faced a difficult situation with tenants who refused to leave after legal notices were sent. After months of working to resolve the situation, it was apparent legal assistance was required to evict. This attorney was initially recommended by the Oregon State Bar. He worked with compassion for the tenants as requested, and excellent knowledge of the laws and procedures required. As a result, the case was resolved timely. Questions were answered with patience. Billing was clear, and was reasonable cost compared to others. No hidden charges or surprises. Highly recommend.
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14 Jul, 2022 by Bruce
I contacted eight lawyers and firms looking to get advice. Lewis Farmer was the only one to respond and his advice turned out to be accurate for what eventually happened with the company I was getting no communication from. Thank you.
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Joseph L. Dunne, experienced Debt Collection, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 1 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.
11,72
star star star star star
2.0/5
Avvo
2.0
1 Reviews
star star star star star
10 May, 2023 by Paul
The shingle is not going to get used much if theres no phone number readily available laddy. Do we snail mail, a letter to ya. Thank you have a good day.
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Cruz H Turcott, experienced Foreclosure, Insurance attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Sunny S. Kakwani, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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James Nabil Keddis, experienced Adoption, Business attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Robert B Coleman, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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William G Fig, experienced Business, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Skyler M Tanner, experienced Bankruptcy, Business attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Raife R Neuman, experienced Business, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Hope A Del Carlo, experienced Consumer Protection, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Gregory J Miner, experienced Appeals, Business attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Daniel C Bonham, experienced Business, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Craig G Russillo, experienced Debt Collection, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
4,00
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0.0/5
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Shannon K Calt, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Steven L Naito, experienced Business, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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David R Ambrose, experienced Business, Foreclosure attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Michael R Coad, experienced Business, Debt Collection attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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Erik M Wilson, experienced Foreclosure, Real Estate attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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Megan Rae Rickert, experienced Foreclosure, Real Estate attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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0.0/5
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David Duane Shaw, experienced Business, Civil Rights attorney in Portland, OR with 0 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.
0,00
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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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.

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