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Stephen A. Koonce
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Stephen A. Koonce
Law Offices of Stephen A Koonce
791 University Ave.
Sacramento, CA 95825
Phone: (916) 925-2851 | Fax: (916) 921-2817
http://www.sacramentobankruptcylawyer.com
GET YOUR LIFE BACK
Legal Topic
Bankruptcy
Preferred New Clients
I prefer to handle personal and small business Chapter 7 and 13 cases.
Sub-Categories
Bankruptcy
- Chapter 13
- Chapter 7
- Business Bankruptcy
- Personal Bankruptcy
Bar Admissions
CA, Jun 1982
Bar Number: 103493
Specialty Certifications
Personal and Small Business Bankruptcy Specialist (by the California State Bar Board of Specialization)
Other Court Admissions
California, U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California, U.S. District Court for the Central District of California, 9th Circuit Court of Appeals
Association Memberships
California State Bar, Sacramento County Bar Association
Continuing Education
In 1995, I became one of the first certified specialists in personal and small business bankruptcy. I have maintained that certification since that time. I periodically participate in continuing education panels on bankruptcy related topics.
Papers and Publications
Co-author of "How To Protect Secured Interests In Bankruptcy In California," NBI, 1993
Co-author of "The Impact Of Bankruptcy On Dissolution Of Marriage In California," NBI, 1998, 1999 and 2000
I also have provided or edited material for numerous Bankruptcy related programs, including the 2005 BAPCPA Study Group organized by the Honorable Michael McManus, Chief Bankruptcy Judge for the Eastern District of California.
Example Cases
I have not had any published decisions in the last 10 years. Most of my clients are consumers or individual business owners. Their goal is to negotiate the Bankruptcy process as quickly and efficiently as possible. In my practice, becoming the subject of a "significant" case is not a good thing.
Education
Degree:
J.D.
School:
McGeorge School of Law
City:
Sacramento
State:
CA
Year:
1981
Focus and Accomplishments:
To obtain a practical legal education to help real world clients.
Number of Attorneys
1
State Licensed In
California
Firm Focus and History
I have been a solo practitioner since 2000. My focus is on representing individuals and small business owners in bankruptcy matters.
Previous Employment Summary
Previously, I was employed by Russell, Jarvis, Estabrook, and Dashiell in 1982. I then became a partner in Jarvis, Longaker, Koonce and Dashiell in 1993.
Activities and Awards
I frequently speak to business and professional groups on Bankruptcy related topics.
What is your opinion regarding clients educating themselves on legal issues?
The more information a client has the better.
Are you willing to review documents prepared by clients?
I am very willing. Clients are often the best source of information about their situation.
Are you willing to coach clients who want to represent themselves?
I am under certain circumstances. However, most clients do not have the education or experience needed to properly represent themselves.
Why did you decide to be a lawyer?
I enjoyed the intellectual challenge and liked helping people solve problems.
What work experience and education helps you be a better lawyer?
Twenty five years of experience handling thousands of cases.
Why did you decide on your primary area of practice?
It was by accident. A member of the first firm I worked for asked me to learn the basics. I enjoyed the area of practice.
What do you like best about your career?
What I like best is the chance to make a real and immediate difference in people's lives.
Tell us about your law firm:
I am a solo practitioner. Other than word processing, I handle all aspects of the practice myself.
What are your strengths and style?
Clients tell me that I am a good listener, and I make them feel better about making difficult decisions. I am told that I am thorough. This is probably a result of my 25 years experience in the area.
I am relaxed but thorough and empathetic to the clients' needs and desires.
Personal Interests:
Cycling, gardening, dog training.
Office Manager/Assistant
None
Fax
(916) 921-2817
Office Hours
Flexible
Emergency After Hours
No
Foreign Languages
None
Fixed-Price Services and Fees
I set fees on a case by case basis.
Hourly Rates
$225 per hour plus costs.
Free Initial Consultation?
I do provide a free initial consultation.
Typical Retainer
$1,500 - $2,000
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.
