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Julie A. Smyk

Julie A. Smyk

Danton & Smyk, PLLC
29777 Telegraph Ave.
Suite 2590
Southfield, MI 48034

Phone: (248) 351-9311  |  Fax: (248) 351-9319
http://debtproblemsgone.com

Contact Julie A. Smyk

Expert Representation with the Respect you Deserve.

Legal Topic

Bankruptcy

Preferred New Clients

Anybody with financial difficulties is welcome for a free consultation. I will evaluate the specific financial situation and make a recommendation as to which chapter of bankruptcy should be filed, if any.

Sub-Categories

Bankruptcy
  • Chapter 13
  • Chapter 7
  • Collections & Repossessions
  • Debt Relief
  • Garnishments
  • Creditor Harassment
  • Foreclosures

Bar Admissions

MI, Dec 1996
Bar Number: P55781

Other Court Admissions

District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan.

Association Memberships

State Bar of Michigan.

Continuing Education

Although there is no formal requirement of continuing legal education in Michigan, I attend several bankruptcy seminars per year. It is very important to stay on top of the bankruptcy law which changes regularly.

Papers and Publications

I have been asked to speak at local bankruptcy seminars on several occasions and I have prepared written materials associated with these seminars.

Example Cases

Generally, clients needing bankruptcy are those who are behind on a house or car, or those who have more unsecured debt than they can handle such as credit cards, medical bills, utility bills or balances on repossessed vehicles.

Education

Degree:

B.A.

School:

University of Michigan

City:

Ann Arbor

State:

MI

Year:

1993

Focus and Accomplishments:

Psychology Major.

 

Degree:

Juris Doctor

School:

Detroit College of Law at Michigan State University

City:

Detroit

State:

MI

Year:

1996

Honors:

Cum Laude

Focus and Accomplishments:

Moot Court; All School Oral Advocacy Award.

Number of Attorneys

2

State Licensed In

Michigan

Firm Focus and History

Danton & Smyk, PLLC was established February, 2004. The sole focus of Danton & Smyk, PLLC is Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and to give you a fresh start. We are committed to providing excellent customer service and treating you with the respect you deserve.

Previous Employment Summary

I worked for a very large bankruptcy law firm for 7 years. I represented debtors filing Chapter 7 & Chapter 13 bankruptcy.

Activities and Awards

I was on the Board of the Consumer Bankruptcy Association from 2002 to 2006.

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

It is very important for clients to be fully educated on the bankruptcy process. However, it is important to note that sources for bankruptcy information are often incorrect. Clients should always voice their concerns or question what they do not understand.

Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?

We are happy to review any documents that the client has prepared to help us understand their particular situation, however, documents to be filed with the Court must be prepared by our office.

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

I am unwilling to coach clients who want to represent themselves.

Why did you decide to be a lawyer?

I have always been a very logical person and it seemed like a good fit for my career choice.

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

Bankruptcy law has been my sole focus since 1997. This has given me the ability to become an expert in this area of law. In addition, I have formed important relationships with other bankruptcy attorneys and trustee staff members which allows me to resolve most issues easily and amicably without causing extra, unnecessary stress to the client.

Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?

It happened to be the job I got right out of law school; however, I would not trade it for anything. It is very gratifying to take away the stress of financial problems for my clients and give them the fresh start they deserve.

What do you like best about your career?

The bankruptcy law exists to help people who need a fresh start. Unlike many areas of law, I am able to give people good news all the time. There are very few situations in bankruptcy where the client "loses."

Tell us about your law firm:

I work with my kind and caring partner, Jerrilann Danton. Jerrilann was an attorney for a creditor for many years prior to opening our practice in 2004. This gives her a unique perspective that is very valuable to our clients. Our wonderful legal assistant, Amanda, has been working for us since 2004. She is very knowledgeable and always available to help clients pave their way through their bankruptcy case.

What are your strengths and style?

I am kind and compassionate. I am very organized and very involved in every case. Our office will give clients the respect that they deserve.

Personal Interests:

I am kept pretty busy with two young children; however, I enjoy reading, traveling and relaxing!

Fax

(248) 351-9319

Office Hours

Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Attorney will accommodate clients needing a later appointment on an as needed basis.

Emergency After Hours

No

Fixed-Price Services and Fees

Bankruptcy fees are generally fixed. The fees are determined on a case by case basis at the initial consultation.

Hourly Rates

Vary considering circumstances.

Free Initial Consultation?

There is no obligation for the initial consultation and there is no time limit.

Typical Retainer

Generally, $100 will retain our services.

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.