Legal Solutions for You,
Your Family & Your Business
Find a Lawyer >
Bankruptcy lawyers serving Miami-Dade County, FL >
Julia Kefalinos
Back to Search Results
Julia Kefalinos
Law Office of Julia Kefalinos, P.A.
2250 S. W. 3rd Ave.
Suite 150
Miami, FL 33129
Phone: (305) 854-5955 | Fax: (305) 445-0994
http://www.kefalinoslaw.com
We Listen. We Act. We Solve Problems.
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcies, Loan Modification and Foreclosures. Also handle Criminal Matters.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Debt Relief
- Garnishments
- Personal Bankruptcy
- Foreclosures
Legal Topic
Real Estate
Preferred New Clients
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcies, Loan Modification and Foreclosures. Also handle Criminal Matters.
Sub-Categories
Commercial Real Estate
- Mortgages
- Real Estate Loans
- Mortgages
- Real Estate Loans
Bar Admissions
FL, Feb 1991
Bar Number: 877832
Other Court Admissions
Florida Bar and Federal Bar for Middle and Southern Districts of Florida.
Association Memberships
Bankruptcy Bar Association and Florida Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
Continuing Education
I am constantly taking seminars in or related to Bankruptcy, Foreclosure, Loan Mods and Criminal Cases. It is my responsibility to stay up to date on the law to better represent my clients' interests.
Example Cases
1. Every bankruptcy case I have filed so far has received a discharge.
2. Very recently, I had a conviction removed for a kid who was stuck in Krome Detention Center for 8 months. Immigration was going to deport him to Haiti because of a five year old conviction on a non-violent offense that happened when he was 17. The family asked for my help and I filed a Motion to Vacate the conviction based on violations of his constitutional rights and prepared a mitigation package which convinced the judge and prosecutor to reverse the conviction. He was released and the family was able to stay together.
Education
Degree:
Juris Doctor
School:
American University Washington College of Law
City:
Washington
State:
DC
Year:
1990
Focus and Accomplishments:
Focused on Constitutional Law, interned for the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, represented veterans before the Board of Veterans Appeals in their quests for benefits. Represented government employees fighting unfair demotions and terminations. Interned with the Copyright Royalty Tribunal where my purpose was to rewrite legislation into plain English.
Degree:
Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a Minor in Spanish Literature
School:
New York University
City:
New York
State:
NY
Year:
1986
Honors:
Dean's List
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
Florida
Firm Focus and History
Satisfied clients are the focus of this firm. It is my goal to provide representation that gives financially and otherwise burdened people the ability to go about their daily lives, awaiting only necessary instructions from me regarding their cases. In other words, when they hire me, their problem becomes mine.
My firm distinguishes itself by staying in close contact with our clients. They don't have to hunt me or my exceptional assistants down for answers. They don't just meet me for a minute then see me again only in court. We are here for them.
In furtherance of my firm's high standards of representation, I stay up to the minute on case law and technologies that will streamline the client's experience.
My firm was established in 2006. After 16 years of service to the community as an Assistant Public Defender in Miami-Dade County and my kids finally getting to a more independent age, I hung out my shingle. It has always been my dream to own my business like my dad.
Previous Employment Summary
As an Assistant Public Defender for the Miami-Dade County office from 1991 to 2006, I handled thousands of criminal cases from investigation to depositions to numerous trials in almost every area of criminal law.
These areas included Felonies, Traffic Cases, Juvenile Delinquencies and Domestic Violence. Eventually, I trained new attorneys and became a lead attorney in particular division.
I feel privileged to have worked for such a prestigious office. It is an office that dedicates all of its resources to protecting the constitutional rights of indigent citizens and I believe very strongly in their cause.
Activities and Awards
• Pro-Bono work for the Dade County Bar Association
• Applying for Martindale-Hubbell AV rating
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
If I needed a lawyer for something you can bet your life I would educate myself, so I would highly recommend that any client do the same.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
I am willing to help in any way I can.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
I am willing to help in any way I can, though I don't recommend self-representation.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
Over time, I grew to understand that I would be perfect for this profession because of my strong personality and leadership skills. I love to argue, negotiate, write and especially defend those who need my help to defend themselves.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
My work at the Public Defender's Office made me a better lawyer because I learned how to connect with people in every aspect of the court system, including judges, prosecutors, victims, witnesses, court personnel, and those accused of crimes and their families. I came out of that office unafraid to enter any courtroom or face any judge.
Growing up working in my father's bakery, as in "My Big Fat Greek Wedding," also contributed to my abilities as an attorney in private practice from a business perspective because I learned how important it is to provide a service to clients that will make them want to come back for more if they need to.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
There is a tremendous need in this community for Bankruptcy attorneys who are committed and instrumental in helping clients deal with difficult financial situations.
I selected Criminal Defense during law school because I loved the idea of fighting to protect the constitutional rights of my clients. I especially loved the idea of doing jury trials.
What do you like best about your career?
As I stated above, I love to argue, negotiate, write and especially defend those who need my help to defend themselves.
Tell us about your law firm:
My assistants are mature and professional. They have a clear understanding of the image I want for my firm as one that strives to provide superior client service.
What are your strengths and style?
A strong personality and leadership skills, as I mentioned above, are helpful in court. I also have the ability to make my clients feel secure. Additionally, I am a good listener and keep extra boxes of tissues in my office because most of my cases carry great emotional weight, in addition to financial. In fact, I take it as a compliment when a client feels they can "unload" at least some of this weight in my office. Finally, I have a biting sense of humor. It is important to keep that in my business. Sometimes people even laugh at my jokes.
Personal Interests:
I love to cook, travel, hang out at the beach and go to the movies. I especially love to do these things with my family.
Office Manager/Assistant
Theresia and Luis.
Fax
(305) 445-0994
Office Hours
Monday through Friday, flexible appointment hours except Saturday and Sunday. Call to schedule. For emergency after hours, please call (786) 351-3954.
Emergency After Hours
Yes
Foreign Languages
Spanish and Greek.
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
I have fixed fees which depend on the complexity of a client's case.
Hourly Rates
In situations which involve litigation.
Free Initial Consultation?
I will offer a free consultation if clients mention they found me on Nolo.
Typical Retainer
It depends on the complexity of 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.
