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Michael R. Lewis
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Michael R. Lewis
Burke Lewis & Ham LLP
222 N Mountain Ave.
Suite 204
Upland, CA 91786
Phone: (909) 946-5370 | Fax: (909) 946-5380
http://www.burkelewishamllp.com/
Getting You the Help You Need When You Need it Most
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
We will help any client, but our main focus is bankruptcy practice in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings, both personal and business, and adversarial proceedings.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Garnishments
- Personal Bankruptcy
Bar Admissions
CA, Dec 2006
Bar Number: 247934
Other Court Admissions
All California State Courts and the Central District of California Federal Court.
Association Memberships
The State Bar of California.
Continuing Education
I always exceed the amount of continuing education hours required so that I may keep up with the continually changing laws of bankruptcy and their application.
Example Cases
We successfully defended a client when her bankruptcy trustee tried to recover a $25,000 payment she had made to her mother. The trustee had argued that the payment was made when the client was insolvent.
Education
Degree:
B.A.
School:
University of Redlands
City:
Redlands
State:
CA
Year:
2001
Honors:
Whitehead Leadership Society
Focus and Accomplishments:
Environmental Emphasis
Degree:
Juris Doctor
School:
University of La Verne College of Law
City:
Ontario
State:
CA
Year:
2005
Number of Attorneys
2
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus and History
Our firm was established in February of 2007 and has helped people with their legal problems ever since.
Our firm helps clients from throughout Southern California in a variety of areas, including estate planning, civil litigation, business organization, and family law. Our main focus, however, is bankruptcy practice.
Previous Employment Summary
Information coming soon.
Activities and Awards
I worked for 25 years as a civil servant in a variety of fields, most recently as a part of the Environmental Control section dealing with permits and inspections of businesses and industry.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
We always encourage everyone to learn as much as they can about their legal situation. For our part, we make sure that our clients have a thorough understanding of all the legal issues facing them. We feel that informed clients are better-equipped to make decisions regarding their case.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
As a general rule, we do not review documents prepared by clients. Because of the complex nature of bankruptcy law and practice, we need a thorough understanding of the client's situation before we can give any legal advice on the subject.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
As a general rule, we do not coach clients who want to represent themselves. While many file for bankruptcy protection on their own and receive discharge, bankruptcy law and procedure is complicated. Our clients have anywhere from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars that they want eliminated through discharge. With so much at stake, this should not be the time where you see if you can do it yourself.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I have always been the type of person who enjoys helping others with their problems. Practicing law has allowed me to do just that.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
My past work experience has sharpened my ability to analyze and solve complex problems. Because of my extensive contact with people from all walks of life, I have learned that everyone is unique and should be treated that way. I listen to all of my clients so that I know what is important to them and their situation. My clients are more to me than a case number or legal issue.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
Bankruptcy allows me to help those in need and get them a fresh start to their lives.
What do you like best about your career?
Bankruptcy allows me to help those who never dreamed that they would be in their particular situation. I take great pride in helping my clients put their problems behind them and get a fresh start.
Tell us about your law firm:
Our firm takes pride in our ability to handle complex issues. We are always honest with our clients as to what we believe we can and can't do for them, and never simply tell them what they want to hear. My partner and I are dedicated to helping our clients through bankruptcy, and we are strong advocates for them when dealing with their case trustee, the United States Trustee's Office or creditors.
What are your strengths and style?
I am a people-person; I enjoy talking with my clients to get to know them. This way, I believe that I can better serve clients by understanding both the situation and them as individuals.
Personal Interests:
I enjoy music, old Volkswagens and animals (I have ten parrots).
Office Manager/Assistant
Maggie Wilson.
Fax
(909) 946-5380
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Weekends and after hours by appointment.
Emergency After Hours
Yes
Foreign Languages
Spanish.
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
Our fees vary depending on the clients and their situations. Every case is different, with some having more issues than others. Generally, our bankruptcies start at $1,500.
Hourly Rates
$250.
Free Initial Consultation?
We offer free consultations with no time limits so that clients can make informed decisions on what is best for their situation. Clients should be prepared to spend at least one hour, and probably more, due to the amount of information that they will receive.
Typical Retainer
Our retainers are written specifically for each client.
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.
