William Reid Cumming's Reviews

William (Bill) is one of the rare lawyers who blends competence with understanding and compassion. You always feel that Bill cares about your situation. He is approachable, professional, and capable in a wide variety of cases.

Bill and I worked together in the same practice group at a large firm and I can attest to the fact that he is a great litigator. His analytical abilities and level of competence is noteworthy . He is a good person and really goes the distance for his clients. I'm proud to call him a colleague.

Bill handled by Chatper 7 Bankruptcy. It closed in July 2011. Bill and his staff made it easy for me to live through this process. They kept me updated as to what was going on and what was to happen next. Bill is still available to me to answer in questions or concerns I have about my case. Bill is very prompt in returning my messages and giving me any advice or information I need.

I had a wonderful experience working with Bill Cummings he was extremely thorough and kept me informed on everything I needed to know. Mr. Cummings also helped me with an operating agreement and was quick to answer any of my questions. I could not have asked for a more professional, knowledgeable and dedicated attorney to work with. He is very personable and has a patient disposition and as I am a first time company owner am truly appreciated of these qualities. I recommend him to anyone in need of someone looking for an attorney dedicated to his client’s needs.

I referred a client of mine to Bill and he did an excellent job. I'm a retired lawyer now working in lending, so I've known and worked with many lawyers. Bill is knowledgeable, friendly and conscientious, but the best thing about him is that he truly cares about his clients and works hard to get the best result for them.

Mr Cumming was truthful, helpful and respectful of our situation and explained process in advance so there were no surprises. He made a difficult situation that we were going through easier with efficient service and understanding.

As VP of Finance & Administration at a local Senior Care construction company, my role was to ensure that we also had good legal representation. As an inudstry, over 30% of contracts end up in a legal dispute of one form or another. Having worked with several other legal counsels, there was very little out-of-the-box thinking when problems came up.
Mr. Cumming is a also personal friend of mine and I've hesitated for a while to mix business with friendship. However, when we had a particularly difficult case where a middle-man in a purchasing transaction went out of business leaving both us and the manufacturer with a massive problem, I knew that I had to talk to Bill. To make matters worse, our purchasing team failed to timely secure some lien releases. Onthe other hand, the manufacturer's joint-check request delivery was delayed and when received it was too late. Payment had been made and the vendor out of business. To us the construction company, we faced a potential loss of over $100,000 on a project that already had thin margins.
After reviewing all the facts, Bill made us aware of the fact that we were in a no-win position. Then he asked a strange question (at least from a Lawyer's standpoint). "Would you buy any further products from this manufacturer?" The answer was an enphatic "yes." Then Bill suggested leveraging future purchases in exchange for a significant discount. What's more, he suggested that it would not be in our interest that he, our legal counsel, be the one negotiating this deal. He felt that we had a greater chance of success by getting all the lawyers out of the way. We worked on a strategy and on the appointed day, I met with the manufacturer's legal team. As the meeting progressed, I realized that Bill's strategy was the only one that made sense. I shocked the other team by boldly outlining the proposed settlement (even acknowledging that I was in no bargaining position) and made them an offer that only the manufacturer top decision maker could accept. This forced then to go back and outline the terms of the proposal. To my surprise and relief, 2 days later, the response came back positive and the deal was approved as proposed. To my company, we only paid out 33% of the initial exposure and we gained a superb relationship being able to buy materials at a deeper discount directly from the manufacturer. We quickly moved to designate him as our lead legal counsel from that day forward.
That was the 1st case that Bill Cumming handled. I've got a dozen more like that that clearly illustrate the fact that Bill is first and foremost a problem solver who uses the law when all else fails. We've enjoyed a tremendously rewarding relationship with him until recently when the company headquarters was relocated to the East Coast.
Compared to all the attorneys I've interacted with, Bill is by far the most unique attorney primarily because of his out-of-the-box thinking that bring a new perspective to the discussion table. What's more, a few times we had cases that were outside of his area of expertise and he immediately let us know about that and helped out bt selecting other attorneys from his vast network.
His feedback and follow up were without reproach. He made my job a lot easier to manage on the Risk Management side of things.

Bill Cumming is a top notch business attorney who created our corporate documents, sits on our Board of Directors and has served as our corporate attorney for several years. He is detailed, knowledgeable and extremely attentive to his clients. Because Bill is proactive, he keeps our firm in compliance with all the latest government regulations. For these reasons I will continue to recommend Bill Cumming to my friends and business associates.

Bill is an outstanding Lawyer. I felt very protected and cared for in every way. He kept me informed and helped ease any worry and fear I had. He met with me when I needed face to face time to make sure I understood everything and felt comfortable with my decisions, he even brought the coffee. I would trust him with any and all of my needs. You will feel the same way I guarantee.

I thoroughly enjoyed working with Bill Cumming! He made the emotional and uncomfortable process of declaring for bankruptcy a comforting and manageable procedure, constantly reminding me to look ahead, toward the future. I felt safe with his talented and knowledgeable focus on the law process and he always returned my emails and calls in a timely manner. I have recommended Mr. Cumming to friends and family looking for answers in these tough economic times. He helped me begin again financially! Thank you, Bill!
>> Maryjane O.

Bill has the unique qualities of being strong tactically, but able to view things wholistically and strategically. As important, he's honest, thoughtful and a good listener to his clients. I have seen him go above and beyond because it is the right thing to do. I would highly recommend him!!

Bill was very easy to work with and let me know what to expect throughout the process. He always had time to answer all my questions and was always available. I do not live in Orange County and it was never a problem in communicating. I was able to fax him any of the information he needed. We did much of our communication my email. He was very understanding about the situation I was in and we talked about many different outcomes that I could expect. Bill never pushed me to get rush into this project. We did it on my schedule. He was up front with the cost and never pushed me for money or to get the process to court.

We benefitted greatly from Mr. Cumming's knnowledge and experience in this area of the law and felt relieved throughout the process, particularly at the bankruptcy hearing. His work was thorough and complete and his clear explanations made the entire process much easier to comprehend, especially legal issues. Our bankruptcy has been discharged and the case closed.

A few additional items relating to the bankruptcy have subsequently risen involving our other business affairs. Mr. Cumming has been very responsive in answering our questions which enabled us to respond in an appropriate manner.

We are very pleased to provide this review and wish to particularly stress our appreciation for the sound fiscal counsel and advice he provided. This has been instrumental in enabling us to rebuild our financial plan and a new life of debt free living without credit cards.

We were so happy with the service we received from Bill and his staff. This was unknown territory for us as it is for most people and it was so nice to have the professional advice and guidance from an outstanding attorney. Bill made us feel comfortable about the process from the beginning and he was always available to answer our questions!

Within the sector of business my firm operates, we are often trust into wotking with companies or individuals with less than professional business practices. Needless to say, this fact can be taxing on a business owner such as myself. We here at Splash Plumbing and New Technology Plumbing have depended on the ethical, professional and wise counsel of Mr. Cummings firm for several years.
Our requirements for professional law intervention ranges from simple collections to mechanic lien foreclosures. All of which have been handled promptly and with detailed care. In the vent the reader of this post is in need of a law firm with tact and ethics, I would highly recommend Cumming and Associates.
Daniel Gratz
President
Spash Plumbing

William R. Cumming was referred to me by a family friend. I started my own business, and with no business background, I cam across many challenges and important decisions that needed to be made. After speaking with Mr. Cumming on the phone, I knew that he was someone I could trust, which is important in a lawyer when you yourself have NO legal knowledge and have to take a leap of faith that someone else has your best interest at heart. We arranged to work on filing corporation papers and drafting 2 contracts. These three items were crucial in establishing a legal foundation for myself and my business.

Mr. Cumming has a beautiful office! As soon as we walked into office, he offered me something to drink. Immediately, I knew that this man was about more than just business; his work extends beyond that of paperwork, notary, and signing on the lines. We spoke about my vision for my business, what I wanted to protect, and what some of my policies would be. Through this work, I was able to see my vision as a business owner come together.

While drafting my contracts, Mr. Cumming made sure that I was covered in the future as well. He brought up cases that he had seen, and made suggestions that I would not have come up with myself. He is an extremely logical thinker, is great with words, and ALWAYS makes sure that he understands you correctly first.

On a personal level, we attended the same undergraduate university, and have many things in common. Anytime I had a business question, he was quick to offer a referral. He is courteous to his staff, answers questions via phone call or email promptly, and has a demeanor that you simply don't find in a lawyer very often. We exchange holiday cards every year, and on lucky occasions, I even call to let him know how well things are going for me. On a business level, he is SHARP. He made marketing and advertising suggestions, helped me make some important contacts, was confident that my business would be successful, and ALWAYS met the realistic deadlines that he promised.

I have nothing but respect, both personally and professionally, for this man. I would, and have, recommended him to everyone seeking a lawyer.

I have used Bill's services over the last 5 years. I work with small businesses as a lender and a consultant.

There have been many occasions that I have recommended Bill to my clients and not one has been disappointed. His responses and recommendations have been quick and he seems to always give them the property direction and guidance they need to resolve their business issues.

Bills knowledge of small business is amazing and he has become a valuable resource to me.

He has helped me grow my business and reputation by being such a great legal resource.

Bob Hammond
Pacific Capital Lending Group

Bill helped me develop a strategic plan for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. We executed against the plan, which proceeded smoothly and succeeded perfectly. Among Bill's many commendable attributes are the two most important in a person with whom I work: he follows up promptly and always does what he says he will do.

Bill is an amazing attorney; he is outgoing, professional, trust worthy and knowledgeable. He is the type of attorney that you can feel comfortable referring to anyone within your personal and professional network. Bill gets an A+ for all of his efforts, regardless if my question was minor or major (or even a repeat question) he was always available, he helped me through every step of my case with ease and professionalism. Thanks Bill, I couldn’t have and wouldn’t have wanted to go through this without you!

As a bookkeeper and tax preparer for both individuals and businesses, I am always asked "legal" questions by my clients. Business clients need to incorporate, dissolve or change a business entity. Mr. Cumming gets the call!!! Some of my clients need to file bankruptcy and many need to do it both for their business as well as personally. Mr. Cumming gets the call!!! Other clients need assistance negotiating with their mortgage bank. Mr. Cumming gets the call!!! Employers slapped with lawsuits from clients, former employees or competitors.....Mr Cumming gets the call!!!! Bill Cumming is always my first call when a client needs legal advise or assistance. Every client is a happy client.

As most professionals, I've been working in the corporate world for years now, and I have had the privilege and the despondency to work with diverse professionals throughout my life. Some were praiseworthy and others truly disreputable. Working with Cumming & Associates Law was a fresh breath of air. The respect, attention, and guidance I received from Mr. Cumming is inexpressible. From the moment I walked into his office until we said our goodbyes in front of the courthouse, I've received nothing but courtesy, professionalism, and guidance from Mr. Cumming. Bill was with me every step of the way throughout my quandary. When I first walked into his office, I was anxious, panicky, troubled, and didn't know how to untangle the mess that I've created in my life. With his bright smile, comforting and relaxing voice, knowledge of law and professionalism, Bill assured me that everything will be ok, which it did! I always had and have issues in trusting and relying on people, but to my amazement, Bill knew how to unravel that way. Today, I am forever grateful to Bill and his firm for helping me rebuild and have a second chance for a better life. Thank you Bill for all the support and guidance you bestowed on me.

After a much unexpected hardship, I found myself completely upside down. A friend recommended Bill Cummings. After meeting with him, I knew I found the right place to get the help I needed to unravel my financial dilemma.

If I can sum it up quickly, I can honestly say that Bill and Cummings and Associates "Walk on Water". There thoroughness, kindness, expertise and complete understanding completely helped turned my life around. I thank him from the bottom of my heart!!

I have used many Lawyers in the past. I can say that William is one of the best I have every worked with. William took care of a situation for me that he was able to resolve for terms better then I ever expected.
He is timely, very knowledgeble and takes his work very serious and uses his experience to get outstanding results. I would highly recommend him if you need a great lawyer.

Me and my husband were in so much debt, we were drowning. I had lost my job and my husband was only getting paid salary. So we had to file bankruptcy. Was so very happy to find William Cumming! He helped us through all the paper work and took us thru each step. If we ever had any questions he was always there to answer them. Other lawyers that we have had would never answer the phone or take days to call us back. William Cumming would always answer the phone 99.9% of the time and if we did leave a message he would always return our call with in the hour,EXCELLENT! He filled us with alot of information and kept us stress free thur the process. We will use him again if we ever need an attorney! We will never forget that name William R. Cumming and don't you forget you forget his name to!
Sincerely, Derek and Laura

William (Bill) is the best. He was so helpful for us and was ready any time to answer questions and provide the help we needed at the time.

Try him, you will not be disappointed!

I have used Bill for my own items and referred him to others as well. In each case he handled the circumstance with a sense of clarity, conviction and desire for a very workable conclusion. He was able to inject a sense of calmness into the proeceedings which, in every case, resulted in a favorable results in a very reasonable time frame. Also in every case his integrity played a major role in the disposition of the circustance. It was very clear to all involved that his reputation and method of operation were instumental in the favorable and timely conclusion of the circumstance. I will always highly recommend him as Attorneys with his credibility and results are very difficult to find.

I was a construction consultant for a Califonia based manufacturer in the renewable energy field. We were involved in several projects on the east coast. The upper management of the company misused the funds set aside for these projects resulting in a financial decline. I was then named along with my superiors in a law suit filed by one of the general contractors for these projects. I was wrongly named in this suit since all of the financial decisions were in the hands of my superiors.

Mr Cumming came highly recommended, and after an initial consultation he undertook the task as my advocate in the above mentioned dispute. After discussions with the attorneys for the plaintiff, Mr. Cumming was able to have my name removed from this and any future litigation. Mr Cumming then received a letter from the courts stating that I had been removed from the court docket and had no further involvement with this law suit.

I greatly appreciated Mr Cumming's professional,courteous and compassionate manner throughout this ordeal. I would highly recommend the services of Mr. Cumming as an outstanding attorney and advocate.

Very professional, personable, timely response to questions, kept us informed of progress

I am not the type of person to impose upon people I know, unless it benefits someone I care about. I have known William "Bill" Cumming for about five-years now. I have a lifelong friend who needed a trustworthy attorney. I didn't want my friend going to just "any" attorney, so I called Bill and asked if he could help. He immediately called my friend and patiently listened to her as she explained her son's dilemma... no retainer; no discussion about money, or what was in it for him. Bill immediately committed himself to her situation. The rest is, as we say, history.

The point is... there are people who will tell you that, if you ever need anything, just ask. When that day arrives, they are never there for you, and your voice messages mysteriously were never received.

When I called upon Bill, he made my friend a priority. Why? He never met, nor did he know her. But that's the kinda' guy Bill is. He is kind-hearted; unselfish; warm; and your messages don't mysteriously disappear from his voice mail. lol.

Bill's actions speak octaves. Bill knows people, and he understands the law. He invites you into his live unconditionally.

I've since referred Bill to several potential clients. He has yet to disappoint any of them. Bill and I have become friends, because I trust him with my life. In reality, this is not only a professional recommendation, this is also a personal recommendation, because I know for certain that if I am pickled, Bill will get me out of the jar.

Working with Bill at Cumming & Associates was a painless and smooth process. He explained every step of the process as we progressed. He had great communications; so that I knew exactly what was happening.

Bill Cumming of Cumming & Associates assisted me and a friend with an unlawful detainer/eviction matter. He was very knowledgeable about the process and accomplished what we needed in a very short time. He was friendly and compassionate. We would recommend Bill Cumming to anyone who needs a good litigation attorney.