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Patrick Forte

Patrick Forte

Patrick Forte Bankruptcy Attorney
1 Kaiser Plaza
Suite 480
Oakland, CA 94612

Phone: (510) 465-3328  |  Fax: (510) 763-8354
http://www.patforte.com

Contact Patrick Forte

An Attorney You Can Trust - 33 Years of Experience

Legal Topic

Bankruptcy

Preferred New Clients

I prefer to work with honest clients who find they can no longer afford to pay their bills due to foreclosure, re-possession, garnishments, judgments are are seeking debt-relief options.

Sub-Categories

Bankruptcy
  • Chapter 13
  • Chapter 7
  • Debt Relief
  • Foreclosures

Bar Admissions

CA, Jun 1978
Bar Number: 80050

Other Court Admissions

State of California
U.S. District Court for the Northern and Eastern Districts of California

Association Memberships

Member, California State Bar
Member, Alameda County Bar Association - Bankruptcy Section
Member of Bay Area Bankruptcy Forum

Continuing Education

I attend Bankruptcy seminars, and attend all classes required by the State Bar, in addition to numerous other classes and seminars each year.

Example Cases

I have handled over 5,000 consumer and small business bankruptcy cases.

Education

Degree:

J.D.

School:

Hastings College of the Law

City:

San Francisco

State:

CA

Year:

1977

Focus and Accomplishments:

Law

Number of Attorneys

2

State Licensed In

California

Firm Focus and History

Get a Fresh Start!
Designated By the United States Congress as an Official Debt Relief Agent to Help People File for Bankruptcy Under the New Bankruptcy Law.

There is no reason to feel guilty or ashamed.

Leading causes for bankruptcy are typically out of your hands:

* Lost Jobs
* Injury or Illness
* Divorces

If you want an experienced, trustworthy bankruptcy attorney with a reputation for results, that's exactly the kind of attorney Patrick Forte is. We provide the quality legal assistance you need and deserve.

Previous Employment Summary

I have practiced Bankruptcy Law since 1979. I have specialized in bankruptcy since 1978.

Activities and Awards

I belong to the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA). I also attend continuing education seminars throughout the year.

What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?

There is nothing wrong with clients educating themselves, however trying to represent yourself can be a huge mistake, and you may have difficulty finding an attorney to take over if your case becomes a disaster.

Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?

Yes, if the client intends to hire me to represent him.

Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?

For insurance coverage reasons, I cannot.

Why did you decide to be a lawyer?

I wanted to help people make their lives better.

What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?

I am a good listener and keep in mind that each person's dilemma is new to him or he, which helps me be a better attorney. No matter how many cases I handle, I'm aware that each is unique to the client and each requires my personal attention.

Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?

In 1979, I was hired by a bankruptcy attorney who fought as hard as he could for each and every client. He was my inspiration.

What do you like best about your career?

I like best that I am able to improve people's lives. I help eliminate their stress, save their marriages, improve their health, and save their jobs. I'm happy when they leave happy.

Tell us about your law firm:

My office consists of me and two secretaries. When you come to see me, you get me; no paralegals, no assistants...just me.

What are your strengths and style?

I make my clients feel comfortable and at ease. I keep in mind that every client is scared, embarrassed, and may be doing this for the first time.

I listen. I care. I want you to know that you are paying me to worry so that you don't have to.

Personal Interests:

I am interested in having happy clients whose lives are improved to the point where they can recommend me to their friends. I am an Oakland native. My wife and I have two daughters. I'm an avid A's fan. I love music, movies and dining out.

Office Manager/Assistant

None

Fax

(510) 763-8354

Office Hours

Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Hours are flexible--evenings and weekends available.

Emergency After Hours

Yes

Foreign Languages

None

Additional Offices

Antioch, CA
3700 Delta Fair Blvd
Suite 200-E
Antioch, CA 94509
(510) 465-3328

Richmond, CA
3510 Hilltop Mall Rd.
Richmond, CA 94806
(510) 465-3328

Fixed-Price Services and Fees

My fees vary from case to case. A typical Chapter 7 is approximately $1,500.

Hourly Rates

I do not charge hourly fees.

Free Initial Consultation?

Yes, the initial consultation is free.

Typical Retainer

In a Chapter 13 case, a typical retainer is around $2,000.

Understanding Fees

Nolo's Licensing Check

Attorneys have passed a licensing check. Nolo has confirmed that every member attorney has a valid license and is in good standing with the applicable bar associations upon joining the directory.

Directory lawyers are required to notify Nolo immediately if they become the subject of any disciplinary action by any bar association.