If you have a lot of debt, are being sued, or are considering bankruptcy, hiring a credit card debt lawyer near you may be in your best interest.

Credit card debt is prolific across the country. In 2023, the average credit card debt per holder was $6,864 in America. Having an expert in your corner to help you succeed in dealing with your debt once and for all can be a major benefit.

Many borrowers end up deep in credit card debt, either because of circumstances beyond their control or because they're too liberal with their use of credit cards. If you're grappling with a lot of debt and don’t see a way to pay it off, you might want to seek out a credit card debt lawyer to help you.

Why You Should Hire a Credit Card Debt Lawyer

When not dealt with as soon as possible, credit card debt can snowball. If you fail to pay debts and creditors pursue legal action, a lawyer for credit card debt can not only help you clear your debts but can also help you minimize legal risks.

A credit card debt lawyer can help you find the right solution to pay off your debts and minimize your legal risks. They can counsel you in case of debt collection lawsuits and protect you from unrelenting debt collector calls and harassment from debt collection agencies.

“If you feel you’re at risk of being sued, have assets to protect, and are unable to pay your creditors, an attorney may be the right way to go," advises Teresa Dodson, CEO and Founder of Greenbacks Consulting LLC.

An attorney can create personalized debt defense plans based on your individual circumstances to help you avoid legal recourse from your debts. 

Here are a few of the top ways lawyers can offer you legal assistance with your credit card debt:

  • Offer you personalized legal advice
  • Defend you against illegal collection practices
  • Educate you about the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
  • Defend you against credit card debt lawsuits and other legal action taken by collection agencies

10 Benefits of Hiring A Credit Card Debt Lawyer

Hiring a credit card debt lawyer can provide several benefits, especially if you're struggling with significant credit card debt and facing potential legal action from creditors. Here are some key advantages:

1. Legal Expertise

A credit card debt lawyer has specialized knowledge of consumer debt laws, including the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), and state-specific regulations. This expertise can help you understand your rights and navigate complex legal matters.

2. Debt Settlement Negotiation

Lawyers can negotiate with creditors on your behalf to potentially reduce the total amount you owe, lower interest rates, or set up more manageable payment plans. Their experience and negotiating skills can lead to better outcomes than you might achieve on your own.

3. Protection from Creditors

A lawyer can protect you from aggressive collection practices. They can stop harassing phone calls and letters from debt collectors, ensuring that all communications go through them. This can significantly reduce your stress and allow you to focus on resolving your debt issues.

4. Representation in Court

If a creditor sues you for unpaid debt, a lawyer can represent you in court. They can help you build a defense, present evidence, and argue on your behalf, increasing the chances of a favorable outcome.

5. Bankruptcy Advice

If your debt situation is dire, a credit card debt lawyer can advise you on whether bankruptcy is a viable option. They can explain the different types of bankruptcy (e.g., Chapter 7, Chapter 13), the process involved, and the potential impact on your financial future.

6. Debt Validation

Lawyers can request debt validation from creditors, requiring them to prove the legitimacy of the debt. This process can sometimes result in the elimination of debts that are not properly documented or have passed the statute of limitations.

7. Credit Report Correction

Errors on your credit report can damage your credit score and make it harder to manage your debt. A lawyer can help you identify inaccuracies and work with credit reporting agencies to correct them.

8. Legal Strategy Development

A credit card debt lawyer can develop a comprehensive legal strategy tailored to your specific situation. This can include prioritizing which debts to pay off first, exploring alternatives to bankruptcy, and creating a plan to avoid future debt issues.

9. Avoiding Common Pitfalls

Without legal guidance, you might make mistakes that could worsen your debt situation. A lawyer can help you avoid common pitfalls, such as missing court deadlines, improperly responding to lawsuits, or falling victim to debt relief scams.

10. Peace of Mind

Knowing that a professional is handling your debt issues can provide significant peace of mind. This can help reduce anxiety and allow you to focus on other aspects of your life.

How To Find a Credit Card Debt Lawyer

There are several ways to find a reputable, experienced lawyer specializing in credit card debt. Consider your budget and your specific needs when searching for a lawyer.

Tips for Finding a Credit Card Debt Lawyer Near You

Here are some tips to help you as you search for credit card lawyers:

  • Include your city or area’s name in your search query instead of just "credit card lawyers near me."
  • Ask family and friends to suggest experienced attorneys they've worked with in the past.
  • Ask a lawyer you know to refer you to a law firm specializing in credit card debt or consumer law.
  • Check with your state bar association or the American Bar Association to find law offices in your area.

Find Free Legal Services for Credit Card Debt

Some lawyers may charge a reduced fee or offer free services for low-income clients. You may also find free representation through legal clinics or legal aid offices in your area. If you meet certain criteria, these lawyers may offer free legal services in your state. You can also consult your local JAG office if you're a service member.

Find an Affordable Credit Card Debt Lawyer

Fees charged by credit card debt lawyers vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of your case. An attorney may decide to charge a flat fee per debt, a percentage of savings, a percentage of the total debt, or an hourly rate after your case evaluation. 

When deciding which lawyer to work with, ask about their fee structure and if they offer alternative fee arrangements such as sliding scale fees or payment plans.

Find the Best Credit Card Debt Lawyer

Before hiring a lawyer, ensure they're in good standing and haven't been disciplined by the state bar organization. You can check by calling the state bar organization where the attorney is licensed or searching for their name on the bar website.

To find the best credit card debt attorney, ask questions such as:

  • What types of debt do you work with?
  • How many credit card debt cases have you represented in the past?
  • Do I need to pay you if I lose the court case?
  • Do you charge an up-front fee?
  • Can you refer me to an affordable attorney if I can’t afford your fees?

Steps to Take if You Choose Not to Hire a Lawyer

  1. Educate Yourself: Learn about your rights under the FDCPA and other relevant laws.
  2. Contact Creditors Directly: Reach out to your creditors to discuss your situation and propose a settlement or payment plan.
  3. Get Agreements in Writing: Ensure that any agreement reached with creditors is documented in writing.
  4. Consider Credit Counseling: Work with a reputable credit counseling agency to develop a debt management plan.

A Credit Card Debt Lawyer Can Help You Become Debt-Free

Getting out of credit card debt is not always easy or simple. A credit card debt lawyer can help you find the right repayment option, minimize your legal risks, and protect you from illegal collection practices.