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James C. Toth
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James C. Toth
Great Lakes Legal Team, PLC
117 South Main Street
Almont, MI 48003
Phone: (810) 798-2300 | Fax: (810) 798-8285
http://www.greatlakeslegal.com
Proven Results at a Reasonable Cost
Legal Topic
Family Law
Preferred New Clients
We work on custody/change of custody, divorce, child support issues, parenting time issues and anything involving family law.
Sub-Categories
Family Law
- Name Changes
- Restraining Orders
- Enforcement Actions
- Child Abuse
- Domestic Violence
- Sexual Abuse
- Adoptions
- Child Support
- Custody
- Paternity
- Visitation
- Civil Unions
- Marriage
- Power of Attorney
- Prenuptial & Postnuptial Agreements
- Grandparent Rights
Legal Topic
Divorce
Preferred New Clients
We work on custody/change of custody, divorce, child support issues, parenting time issues and anything involving family law.
Sub-Categories
Divorce
- Alimony/Palimony/Spousal Support
- Child Support
- Custody/Visitation Rights
- Delinquent Support Payments
- Division of Property
- Restraining Orders
- Uncontested Divorce
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
We regularly handle both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Credit Disputes
- Debt Relief
- Garnishments
- Business Bankruptcy
- Credit Repair
- Credit Restoration
- Creditor Harassment
- Personal Bankruptcy
- Foreclosures
Bar Admissions
MI, Dec 1994
Bar Number: P44990
Other Court Admissions
All Michigan State Courts, the State Supreme Court and Court of Appeals, and the Federal District Court.
Association Memberships
The Michigan Bar Association, Sanilac County Bar Association, Macomb County Bar Association, St. Clair County Bar Association, and Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity.
Continuing Education
I attend at least three or more seminars per year in family law, auto accident, and bankruptcy law due to the laws constantly changing.
Example Cases
• I represented a client who raised deer in Michigan. The deer were in a large enclosure but a next door neighbor was frightening the deer by allowing her dogs to run around the fence line. This would prompt the frightened deer to run into the fence, causing damage to internal organs. At trial, we proved that by not keeping her dogs restrained, the negligence led to injuries and death of the deer. My client received a $100,000 jury verdict as a result. The case was appealed and we won in the court of appeals.
• Another client of mine was charged with criminal sexual conduct (which was a life offense) and I worked to have it reduced to a misdemeanor.
Education
Degree:
Juris Doctor
School:
Wayne State University
City:
Detroit
State:
MI
Year:
1994
Focus and Accomplishments:
Dean of Delta Theta Phi Law Fraternity, Dean of International Law Society, and Moot Court.
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
School:
Michigan State
City:
East Lansing
State:
MI
Year:
1989
Honors:
High Honors
Focus and Accomplishments:
Resident Assistant, Business & Criminal Law.
Number of Attorneys
3
State Licensed In
Michigan
Firm Focus and History
We provide proven results at a reasonable cost. We offer experience along with quality service.
The firm started in 1997 and has grown from one attorney to three attorneys in 2009.
Previous Employment Summary
Prior to starting this firm, I worked in general law practice with four other attorneys representing clients in criminal law, family law, bankruptcy, personal injury and general litigation.
Activities and Awards
I play in a local racquetball league, and I serve on the Board of Directors for United Way in Lapeer County, Michigan.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
I personally think that law is similar to a different language and that attorneys act as interpreters and advocates. I feel that it is dangerous to represent yourself.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
I would prefer to be 100% involved as opposed to overseeing document preparation by clients. I would rather work out a payment program instead of "ghosting" as an attorney.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
I am unwilling to do so.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I wanted to learn the language of law and to assist people with interpretation. I am a true believer in the fact that knowledge is power.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
I worked in U.S. customs service in Washington D.C. for a year, as an insurance agent for a year, and I also worked in St. Clair county jail. These experiences have helped me represent clients I meet on a day-to-day basis.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
Bankruptcy provides a fresh start and estate planning/wills provides people peace of mind. There are always people who require an attorney for family law, and I am experienced to help in this capacity.
What do you like best about your career?
I like the challenges presented by the variety of cases.
Tell us about your law firm:
The people working with me are well-qualified and trained competently. They've all been working in their respective fields for a long time and can provide our clients with experience and quality service.
What are your strengths and style?
My strengths are my organizational skills, service and my willingness to obtain the best deal for my clients, even in the face of opposition from judges.
Personal Interests:
I enjoy traveling, reading, playing racquetball, working out, movies and spending time outside in the summer.
Office Manager/Assistant
Sherri Zengeler
Fax
(810) 798-8285
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Emergency After Hours
No
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
This depends on the case, but for Chapter 7 for an individual it is $1,500 and Chapter 13 is $1,500 to start. The other fees depend on the circumstances. On personal injury cases, we charge a contingency fee or percentage of recovery.
Hourly Rates
$185.
Free Initial Consultation?
Yes, for as long as needed.
Typical Retainer
This varies depending on the case.
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.
