The sooner you call a qualified and experienced loan modification, home foreclosure attorney, the sooner you can get the relief you need from late mortgage payments, the threat of foreclosure or being served court documents where the lender is wanting to “call” your loan, foreclose on your home or require the property be vacated. You should be advised and cautious about those out there who advertise mortgage relief services as well as help from attorneys when the fact is that no attorneys are involved at all. You should also be advised of the importance of obtaining an attorney who can provide services that are knowledgeable and experienced in the processes of loan modification and mortgage foreclosure proceedings.
A couple of examples of attorneys who are not qualified and cannot be of help to you are those who practice family law or those who practice criminal law. The laws involved in loan modification/mortgage foreclosure are unique and require a lawyer with specialized knowledge.
There are several things to look for when trying to find a lawyer to help you including the following five:
1. Ask if the attorney is an active member of and in good standing with the State Bar Association.
2. Ask if the attorney is now or has ever been sanctioned by the State Bar Association in your state.
3. Ask if the attorney is licensed to practice law in the state where the property in question is located.
4. Make sure, if you have one, to contact your personal lawyer to ask for their recommendation of a good mortgage modification lawyer.
5. Find out if any of your family or friends know someone who has been through mortgage modification and can recommend an attorney.
Remember that the loan modification/mortgage foreclosure process is a legal process. Besides giving you legal advice, the attorney will also be working with your lender to get your loan modified. Your attorney will also be working closely with the attorney who is representing the financial institution, besides doing all the paperwork and filing all necessary documents with the court. Part of your attorney’s job is to ensure that all aspects of the proceedings for foreclosure are legal and proper as well as making sure you are not treated capriciously or illegally and that your interest are protected.
Melvin R. Singleterry, is a practicing attorney who specializes in consumer debt law including debt reduction, credit card debt negotiation and debt settlement, and unsecured debt relief. Singleterry, who holds Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees from Oklahoma State University and a Juris Doctor from The University of Oklahoma, has practiced in both State and Federal Courts. He has been a trial attorney in both civil and criminal cases and has served as a Court Appointed Trustee in Federal Bankruptcy Court. His practice has included criminal law, corporate law, contracts, personal injury, family law, and consumer law, etc. He has represented consumers, corporations, banks and financial institutions. Singleterry served pro bono as legal counsel for The Albert Schweitzer Society, USA, Inc. He organized and operates Associated Attorneys, LLC. , a corporation dedicated to assisting consumers obtain legal counsel for help with negotiation and settlement of their unsecured debts.