DEBT RELIEF
Bankruptcy is not always the right answer. For some clients, negotiated debt settlements — reached directly with creditors outside of court — can resolve overwhelming debt at a fraction of what is owed. Attorney Michael Goldstein evaluates your full financial picture and negotiates on your behalf for the best possible outcome.
Services are available for clients in Massachusetts, Maryland, and Washington, D.C.
WHAT IS DEBT SETTLEMENT?
Debt settlement is a negotiated agreement between you and a creditor to accept less than the full amount owed as payment in full. It is typically used for unsecured debts — credit cards, medical bills, personal loans — where the creditor has more to gain by accepting a reduced lump sum than by pursuing collection.
Settlement is not right for everyone. It can have tax consequences (forgiven debt may be treated as income), and it can affect your credit. However, for clients who do not qualify for bankruptcy or who want to avoid it, a well-negotiated settlement can be a powerful tool.
Attorney Goldstein negotiates directly with creditors and collection agencies on your behalf — bringing legal leverage that debt settlement companies cannot provide. Every settlement is reviewed and documented to protect you from future claims.
SETTLEMENT OPTIONS
Depending on your situation, one or more of these approaches may be available.
Negotiate a one-time reduced payoff accepted as payment in full
Negotiate a reduced balance paid over a short series of installments
Resolve outstanding court judgments before or after entry
Respond to and negotiate bank levies and wage garnishments
Stop abusive collection calls and letters through legal action if needed
Negotiate reduced interest rates and waiver of fees and penalties
Resolve outstanding vendor, supplier, and commercial debts
Settle pending lawsuits before trial to avoid judgment
THE PROCESS
We review your full financial picture — income, assets, debts, and creditor status — to identify the best strategy.
We evaluate each creditor’s position, collection status, and likelihood of accepting a negotiated settlement.
Attorney Goldstein negotiates directly with creditors on your behalf, using legal leverage to achieve the best result.
Every settlement is documented in writing to protect you from future claims on the same debt.