Joel Michael Grafstein

Robin and I are very happy with Joel’s work representing us in our Chapter 7 bankruptcy process, and are pleased to recommend him to others. We considered bankruptcy because of very substantial credit card and medical debt. He was recommended to us by a local attorney and it became clear in our in...itial consultation that he was knowledgeable and friendly. He answered all of our questions and spent more than an hour with us, setting us much more at ease than when we arrived. We only realized when leaving that this generosity with his time had cost him the better part of his lunch hour! The initial consultation served its’ purpose – it was clear that we should proceed with the bankruptcy and that Joel was the man to do it. During the process, he was careful to explain the information we needed to provide, steps to take and actions to avoid. He gave advice on specific points when we asked and on various topics when he thought it was in our best interest to hear it, whether we had asked for it or not. He took us through the steps and paperwork, explaining the whys and wherefores. He determined the best time to file the petition and both prepared us in advance and supported us during the court hearing. His skill in the field allowed us to receive our discharge promptly and to retain assets important to us – house, car and household effects. His common sense advice about how to avoid getting into financial trouble in the future was delivered with humor and graciousness. Joel was also thorough and adaptable. He responded and helped us when a family matter changed our circumstances late in the process, and has continued to advise us about it even after our discharge. We are also very pleased that the fee for his services quoted in our initial consultation held, despite dealing with the above wrinkle. Finally, he performed a great service by helping to keep what could have been a traumatic episode in our lives in perspective. In one of our meetings he said “there is life after bankruptcy”, and we have found this to be so. In summary, highest ratings and best positive feedback.

Atty Grafstein handled my case in 2001. He actually didn't 'push' me into filing as did ( other ) attorneys- who barely knew the 'facts' of my case before 'assuring' me that 'bankruptcy...was the way to go...' Mr. Grafstein spent time reviewing my situation and even inquired if there might 'be a way...' for me to somehow work with my creditors before filing. It was only after I showed him that I'd tried ( to little avail ) that he filed on my behalf. It was a totally smooth event with very little if any stress and the fee was extremely reasonable ( he allowed me to make I believe, 3 separate payments ) and kept working despite the fact the fee was not payed in full. I don't know WHY this lawyer was reprimanded in the mid 90's.... I think it's far from possible to please everyone and my guess is that there was some client who was really the headache...