Legal Solutions for You,
Your Family & Your Business
Find a Lawyer >
Bankruptcy lawyers serving Sonoma County, CA >
Brian A. Barboza
Back to Search Results
Brian A. Barboza
Law Offices of Brian A. Barboza
1400 North Dutton Ave.
Suite 21
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
Phone: (707) 527-8553 | Fax: (707) 545-1522
http://www.barbozalaw.com
Affordable Bankruptcy - Personal Attention
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
Consumer debtor bankruptcy Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. Unlawful detainer actions (evictions), landlord representation only.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Collections & Repossessions
- Debt Relief
- Garnishments
- Credit Repair
- Credit Restoration
- Creditor Harassment
- Personal Bankruptcy
- Foreclosures
Bar Admissions
CA, Sep 2008
Bar Number: 257423
Other Court Admissions
All California Courts, and Federal Court.
Association Memberships
California Bar Association, Sonoma County Bar Association, and Federal District Court Bar Association.
Continuing Education
I attend numerous legal education seminars in the areas of Bankruptcy and Landlord Tenant Law.
Example Cases
I represented a family who faced the imminent foreclosure of their home due to increased costs in medical expenses when their child was diagnosed with autism. Through a Chapter 13 plan, we were able to save their home from foreclosure and reorganize their debt.
In addition, I have had a recent increase in clients who purchased homes post-foreclosure and found holdover tenants and previous owners still living in the property whom refused to vacate. We were able to gain possession for the new owners.
Education
Degree:
Bachelor of Arts
School:
Sonoma State University
City:
Rohnert Park
State:
Information coming soon.
Year:
2002
Focus and Accomplishments:
Criminal Justice Administration.
Degree:
Juris Doctorate
School:
Empire School of Law
City:
Santa Rosa
State:
CA
Year:
2007
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus and History
The focus of my firm is the representation of debtors in Bankruptcy. We focus on giving personal attention at an affordable fixed price. The goal is to navigate the bankruptcy for the debtor and make the experience as least stressful as possible. We represent clients in both Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. In addition, the firm represents landlords in unlawful detainer actions (evictions). In those cases we also offer an affordable fixed rate and personal attention.
The firm is relatively new. The firm was established in September of 2008 and recently relocated to its present location.
Previous Employment Summary
Throughout my undergraduate studies and while attending law school in the evenings I worked for the Sonoma County Probation Department as a peace officer. I worked in corrections and as an adult probation officer. While studying for the California bar exam and for an additional year I worked as a law clerk for a local law firm which practiced general civil litigation and landlord tenant law. In addition, I did contract work for a local bankruptcy attorney.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
I have had a major influx of clients prior to my consultation educating themselves with Nolo materials, especially in the area of bankruptcy. I feel that it is a good idea for two reasons: First, they understand what they are facing and the difficulties ahead. Secondly, it allows for a much more advanced consultation and attorney-client relationship because we are able to communicate at a much higher level. The clients ask educated questions and spot issues they otherwise would have overlooked.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
I will review the documents only if they hire me to perform a bankruptcy or unlawful detainer. I will use those documents as part of my fact gathering process. However, I do not perform piece meal legal work.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
I do not coach clients who want to represent themselves, because it opens me up to liability if mistakes are made.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I decided to be an attorney for the challenge and for the opportunity to help others. It is an awarding career and every case is different, which keeps the career interesting.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
My experience as a peace officer and a law clerk prepared me to deal with the different personalities and challenges that an attorney deals with on a day to day basis. Additionally, my experiences as an attorney continue to build upon each other, allowing me to truly master my craft.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
I have a passion in aiding others with financial difficulty. I understand that stress caused by financial hardship is one of the worst types of stress, causing relationship problems and inner turmoil. Practicing bankruptcy law is a direct way to help and assist others facing this particular type of distress and I find it rewarding. Furthermore, much of my past experience in the legal profession dealt with landlord-tenant law and that is why my practice includes unlawful detainers (evictions).
What do you like best about your career?
I enjoy the versatility of the legal profession and the pride in owning my own business. As explained above, every case is different offering variety, unique to the legal profession.
Tell us about your law firm:
I am a solo practitioner, so all of my clients deal directly with me. However, I have a very friendly receptionist who answers my incoming phone calls.
What are your strengths and style?
In addition to my scholarly approach to bankruptcy law my strengths are my attention to detail and ability to communicate effectively with others. Moreover, my style is one of versatility. I have the ability to modify my style from caring and cooperative to zealous and aggressive depending upon what the situation requires.
Personal Interests:
My personal interests are physical fitness, traveling, coaching youth sports, and reading.
Fax
(707) 545-1522
Office Hours
Monday through Friday
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Weekend and evening appointments available.
Emergency After Hours
No
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
Yes. I do Chapter 7 bankruptcies for consumer debtors for $975 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies for $1,375. I do residential evictions (unlawful detainers) for $975.
Hourly Rates
$150.
Free Initial Consultation?
One hour free consultation.
Typical Retainer
$300.
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.
