Bankruptcy

We specialize in handling Chapter 7 bankruptcies, as well as various aspects of family law.

• Chapter 13
• Chapter 7
• Collections & Repossessions
• Credit Disputes
• Debt Relief
• Garnishments
• Business Bankruptcy
• Credit Repair
• Credit Restoration
• Creditor Harassment
• Personal Bankruptcy
• Foreclosures

CA, Dec 1998
Bar Number: 198387

The California Superior Court, and the Federal Court Eastern and Central Districts of California

The Central California Bankruptcy Association

I am constantly attending continuing education seminars and workshops. I feel it is vitally important to stay current with the law and its application.

I am regularly interviewed by television and newspaper reporters regarding the economy in general, and the state of the local bankruptcy filers. I have also written an e-book, available online, describing the process and requirements for filing a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, with a focus on the changes mandated by the 2005 bankruptcy overhaul.

I handle bankruptcies, as well as various aspects of family law.

1

California

I have spent the last ten years focusing on a client-oriented practice, where my goal has always been to solve the clients' problems as thoroughly and efficiently as possible. One reason I enjoy bankruptcy law is that we can truly help people in need at very difficult times in their lives. Our firm also practices family law, so we find ourselves able to handle a wider variety of cases. Often one type of case can lead to another type and it definitely helps to have experience in several areas of the law in order to better serve our clients.

I began my legal career as a Kern County Public Defender in 1998. After 2 years, I opened my own office in Bakersfield helping people with different types of cases. I soon found that my strength was helping people solve their financial problems through bankruptcy and financial counseling. This has been my main practice focus since. I am regularly interviewed for television and newspapers in the areas of finance and bankruptcy. I feel bankruptcy is a tool to help people deal with other fundamental issues they face in a troubled economy.

Before law school I worked in Bakersfield as a real estate agent and, also, as an employee of the Kern County Sheriff's Department for over 3 years. I grew up in Bakersfield and understand the needs of our community.

I am a Judge Pro Tem for the Kern County Superior Court, and regularly hear traffic and small claims cases in Bakersfield and outlying courts.

Melissa Youngblood

(661) 322-9590

Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Other times by appointment.

No

We have a Spanish interpreter available for our clients.

Fresno, CA
516 West Shaw Ave.
Suite 200
Fresno, CA 93704
(559) 243-9500

I provide a flat fee structure for bankruptcy clients based on their individual needs. I don't believe that there is a one-size-fits-all solution when dealing with the law. Everyone's situation is different, and I don't charge everyone the same because of it. Having said that, I DO allow payment plans for attorney's fees and my clients can get their cases started for only $200 down. Clients have to remember that I don't want to charge them more than required to handle their case.

I do not have an hourly rate for most bankruptcy cases.

I absolutely offer free consultations for as long as it takes to understand the client's situation, describe to them the applicable bankruptcy law and procedure, and answer any questions they have. Remember: we are in this TOGETHER.

Again, each case is different, and I don't have a one-size-fits-all retainer. However, don't forget that my office is called "Discount Bankruptcy" for a reason!