Considering debt settlement?  If you’re looking to reduce and consolidate your debt, then debt settlement can be a good option.  However, it’s important to choose your debt settlement negotiator wisely.  There are many good reasons to consider hiring an attorney to handle your debt settlement negotiation.

To begin with, there are a number of unscrupulous debt settlement firms.  Some debt settlement firms are deceptive and unethical – while others are outright scams.  Hiring a licensed, experienced attorney can protect you (and your credit) from deceptive companies that take advantage of debtors.  Unlike attorneys, debt settlement companies are not required to be licensed.  This means that anyone can open a debt settlement company, and there is no monitoring or oversight.

Attorneys are also more familiar with the law, as it applies to debt settlement, consumer rights, and legal negotiation.  In comparison, most debt settlement companies are not very familiar with the laws that govern consumer debt, collections, and creditors’ claims.  A bankruptcy attorney is also more knowledgeable about legal guidelines and consumer regulations regarding secured and unsecured debt.

Another reason to hire an attorney is because they are typically better at negotiation, compared to debt settlement firms. Attorneys earn a living by persuading and negotiating – this may include persuading judges, vendors, juries, and clients, among many other groups of people.  As a result, attorneys have developed good persuasion, communication, and negotiation skills.  These skills will be put to good use when settling your debt.  Compared to debt settlement companies, attorneys are also more respected (and feared).  Creditors are more likely to comply with an attorney than with a generic debt settlement company.  Depending on a number of different factors, an attorney can usually reduce your total debt owed by 30-60 percent (sometimes more). Before using a debt settlement company, consider hiring an attorney instead.  Talk to an experienced debt settlement attorney in your area to learn more.