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Jeffrey M. Freedman
About Jeffrey
Biography
Early Life
I grew up in Buffalo NY.
I was a child of the 50's and I attended all public schools.
I went to School #86 on St Lawrence Ave.
I attended Amherst Junior HS for 7th grade.
School #66 on Parkside Ave, for 8th grade and then to Bennett HS.
I did better than average in school, but studies never came easy.
The Buffalo public school system did a good job preparing me for college.
My family belonged to Temple Beth David on Starin Ave. and that's where I had my Bar Mitzvah when I was 13 years old. Today I am a member of Temple Beth Zion in Buffalo, NY.
Looking back, its funny what events come to mind.
I recall when Russia launched the sputnik. I remember the air aid drills when we were told if we sat quietly under our desks we would be ok in the event of a nuclear attack.
At school #86 we all gathered in the school auditorium to watch John Glenn's launch into space.
I also recall that terrible day when John Kennedy was killed in Dallas
My very first job was selling refreshments at the Buffalo zoo. I was 12 years old at the time. I recall riding my bike to work. If it rained there was no work and I would have to ride home with no pay.
My second job was when I was 13 or 14. I worked part time packing hot dog and hamburger rolls at Kaufman's Bakery. Kaufman's was owned by the Freedman and Rosenberg families. I always worked part time at the bakery and full time during the summer. When I was 16 years old I made deliveries for the bakery using a station wagon or a bakery truck.
I never made it to the Woodstock Music Festival in 1967 . I was working at the bakery and couldn't take off. However, a few weeks before Woodstock, the Atlantic City Rock Festival took place. Many of the Woodstock performers played that earlier concert. And I enjoyed the Atlantic City concert.
College Days
When I was 18 years old I went off to college and studied political science and international relations at the American University in Washington DC. Part of my college studies included a series of internships working for a Congressman, The DC Probation Dept. and for Neighborhood Legal Services.
I graduated from A.U. in 1972 and started law school in 1973 at Western New England College in Springfield, Mass.
I decided to go to law school because I wanted to do something that would enable me to help others.
In 1976 I graduated from law school and in 1977 I passed the NYS bar exam.
My Law Career
The Buffalo, NY law firm, Gannon and Gannon hired me as an associate in 1977. The firm was a true general practice. I was able to work on a wide variety of cases with terrific lawyers. The firm was a great place to work. A terrific place to learn the practice of law.
In 1977 I was appointed as a Trustee at the Bankruptcy Court in Buffalo NY. I served as a Trustee for 7-8 years. This position allowed me to learn everything about bankruptcy law.
Formation of Jeffrey Freedman Attorneys at Law
In April 1, 1980 I formed my own law firm, Jeffrey Freedman Attorneys at Law.
In August 1981 I married the love of my life, Barbara Hamilton.
Initially I had a general practice firm. We handled a wide variety of civil and criminal matters. As time went on, my firm began to concentrate on bankruptcy, social security disability and personal injury law. We now also handle cases involving Emplyment Discrimination, Workers' Compensation, VA Disability and Long Term Disability Claims.
Career Highlights
Named Lawyer of the Year by The Erie County Bar Association
Received the NYSBA President's Pro Bono Award for service to the Community.
Recieved several awards from the Volunteer Lawyers Project for Service to the Community
Named to "Who's Who" in law by Business First
Named to Super Lawyers
Achieved AVVO 10 rating
Law Firm Celebrated our 39th Anniversary 2019
Certified by the US Department of Veterans Affairs
Accredited Attorney with the National Organization of Veteran's Affairs
I had the honor of being a founding member of The National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys and I served as their first Vice President for a period of 4 years.
I have testified before the United States Congress and met with White House Officals concerning a variety of consumer matters.
In 1996 I was called to testify before the National Bankruptcy Review Commission about proposed changes to the Bankruptcy Law.
I have been a sustaining member of the National Organization of Social Security Claimant's Attorneys since the early 80's.
I have lectured locally and nationally about all aspects of our practice areas to attorneys as well as to the public at large.
Since our inception in 1980 we have helped over 50,000 families resolve their legal problems. We have two offices in NYS.
Press Coverage
I have been quoted in the press many times.
To read some of the stories google my name at:
The Buffalo News
The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA Today
NYSBA Law Journal
The Erie County Bar Association Bar Bulletin
Pro Bono Work
Working with non profit groups has also been important for our firm. Some of the groups we have worked with, donated money to or have volunteered our time to, include, The United Way, The Lupus Foundation, The Erie County Bar Foundation, Aids Community Services, The MS Society, The Brain Injury Association, The Mental Health Association, The National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, The Volunteer Lawyers Project, Legal Services for the Elderly, Neighborhood Legal Services, Temple Beth Zion, NAACP, FATHERS,The Urban League, Consumer Credit Counseling Services and many other groups.
My Hobbies
My hobbies include photography and world travel. I enjoy taking photos of people in remote areas of the world. One of my goals is the capture the soul of an individual through photography or to show the living environment of the people I shoot. I have a photo web site at Many of my photos are donated to charities and are also on exhibit through out WNY.
Conclusion
With respect to the practice of law or working with charities in WNY, helping people improve their lives gives me a great deal of satisfaction.
Practice Areas
5
Practice Areas
Social Security & Disability
75%
50 years
Bankruptcy and Debt
10%
50 years
Discrimination
5%
50 years
Personal Injury
5%
50 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Contingency
25%-33%
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
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Chat withLicenses
Licensed in New York for 48 years
State: New York
Acquired: 1977
No misconduct found
Licensed in Pennsylvania for 30 years
State: Pennsylvania
Acquired: 1995
No misconduct found
Licensed in District of Columbia for 47 years
State: District of Columbia
Acquired: 1978
No misconduct found
Location
Jeffrey Freedman Attorneys at Law
424 Main Street, Suite 622, Buffalo, NY, 14202
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
Design Center, 3445 Winton Place, # 104, Rochester, NY, 14623
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
216 East Main St., Batavia, NY, 14020
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
2-6 East Main Street, Jamestown, NY, 14701
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
23 North St. Suite B, Canandaigua, NY, 144424
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
6493 Dysinger Rd, Lockport, NY, 14094
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
375 Dick Rd., Depew, NY, 14043
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
2045 Niagara Falls Blvd #16, Niagara Falls, NY, 14304
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
2646 W. State St. #201, Olean, NY, 14760
Law Offices of Jeffrey M. Freedman
2690 Sheridan Drive, Tonawanda, NY, 14150
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Jeffrey M. Freedman's Reviews
Showing 1 - 5 of 21 client reviews from Avvo
Posted by Phil | August 15, 2019 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Great job on our injury claim!
We hired Jeffrey Freedman to represent my daughter in a injury case and found him very professional. He was able to settle our claim expediently and exceeded our expectations. I would recommend him without hesitation.
Posted by Dan | November 13, 2018 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
ssdi case
Kevin Bambury and Candice Jensen did a wonderful job. They were very thorough, answered all my questions and most importantly treated me with respect. I am very appeciative of all their effort and would highly recommend them for all your ssdi needs. Thank you again.
Posted by Daniel Gregory | July 13, 2018 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
SSDI Case Went Well!
I had Courtney L Quinn, although I also worked briefly with an "Allison" and was very pleased with the Results. They both helped me understand the Process and fully sympathized with everything that I deal with and truly were a tremendous help in every way.
Posted by Larry | April 5, 2017 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Extremely disappointed in EVERY aspect of my SSD case
Retained Jeffrey Freedman to handle my SSD case. Was denied initial claim and went to hearing. Not sure how much experience my Attorney had but I feel a monkey could have been a better attorney than her. Lost case and waited over two years to hear that appeal was denied....No surprise!! Not once did ...
Posted by Tom | November 29, 2016 | Hired Attorney
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Social Security Disability
I was able to win my SSD case in 5 months due to cancer. I don't know what I would've done without this money. We've been struggling to make ends meet due to the high medical costs when I was working, but we wouldn't be able to pay our bills if I didn't win this case because I cannot work any longer....
Jeffrey M. Freedman's Lawyer Endorsements
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I not only endorse Jeffrey Freedman, I refer all consumer bankruptcy cases to him personally. Jeff and his team work efficiently and effectively to help clients through their darkest financial hour. Without exception, clients I have referred to him have reported back with glowing praise of the service and counsel provided by Jeffrey and his staff."
"I endorse this lawyer. Jeffrey's track record of success over the years speaks for itself. He is truly the lawyer's lawyer. His integrity and professionalism set the gold standard."
"I endorse Jeffrey. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Freedman is pre-eminent in his field and a gracious contributor of knowledge and advice to the bankruptcy bar."
"Mr. Freedman is an outstanding attorney who provides exemplary advice on Avvo. I would recommend everyone and anyone to him for representation. Even though I have been practicing fo 24 years, as a judge, magistrate, prosecutors, and in private practice, I learn valuable new information from him every day. A superb attorney."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer.I have known Jeffrey Freedman for 40 years and he is one of the most talented and dedicated lawyers in Buffalo.I highly recommend him to anyone looking for a superb attorney."
"I endorse Jeff. He is well regarded by his fellow attorneys and community. He has a wealth of experience and provides excellent service to his clients."
"I endorse this lawyer. The Batavia office has a good reputation for debt and bankruptcy issues. Several clients of mine have used the office and reported how pleased they were. I refer people to this office on a routine basis."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. I have worked with Jeff at seminars for the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys. He is very knowledgeable about the law, and up to date on technology, so as to be able to serve his clients efficiently and effectively."
"I strongly endorse this lawyer. I have know Jeffrey for over 25 years. We have spoken on bankruptcy panels together and I refer any NY clients to him. He is an outstanding attorney and an expert in bankruptcy and social security law!!"
"I endorse this lawyer! Jeff is an excellent attorney. He has a national reputation as an attorney and as a speaker on bankruptcy law. I unhesitatingly refer all prospective New York clients to Jeff."
"I have known Jeffrey Freedman for over 20 years through the National Organization of Social Security Claimant Representatives (NOSSCR),which is the largest organization of attorneys specializing in this field of law in the US. Jeff has spoken at NOSSCR continuing legal education conferences many times. He is extremely knowledgeable and competent in the field of SSD law. I also know him to be a highly ethical individual with a reputation for the highest integrity as well as legal ability."
"I endorse this lawyer. I am a fellow lawyer and have known Jeffrey for more than 20 years. I practice estate and trust law and he has served as a trustee under a trust I drafted for a client. I have also worked with Jeffrey in the Erie County Bar Foundation in which he is extremely active. I also know Jeffrey socially and also know that he is extremely attentive to his parents and other family. I have also recommended clients to Jeffrey for Social Security Disability legal help. He has been very responsive and successful."
"I have known Jeffrey for 25 years. He is extraordinarily committed to his clients and his community. His firm practices law a top level and I know if I refer a client to him that he or she will receive superior legal representation. Jeffrey is also very active in the charitable arm of the Bar Association and is well known for his generosity. He sets the highest standard for service, ethics and honesty. I fully endorse him."
"I've known Jeffrey for almost twenty years through our work in NACBA. Jeffrey is bright, compassionate and dedicated to helping his clients through difficult times. He has been a frequent lecturer at many national conferences on bankruptcy and always has an interesting perspective on the bankruptcy practice."
"I have known Jeffrey Freedman for more than 25 years as a fellow bankruptcy lawyer, and have attended many conferences where Jeffrey was an entertaining, engaging and highly effective speaker before other bankruptcy lawyers, judges and trustees. He is thoroughly knowledgeable on the subject of bankruptcy, and was instrumental in the founding of National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, where he served 4 years as Vice President. Jeffrey really cares about his clients and provides personal attention to their problems in order to forge effective solutions. I thus have referred clients to Jeffrey over the years because I know he will take care of them and get them good results. If I were a client in need of help with my debts, I would want a lawyer just like Jeffrey Freedman."
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Experience
Honors
2012
Best Lawyers in Bankruptcy Law, Best Lawyers in America
2011
Business of the Year, Medaille College
2011
Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers
2011
Best Lawyers WNY, Buffalo Business First
2011
AV Preeminent 5.0 out of 5 Peer Review Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
2010
Pro Bono Award, Volunteer Lawyers Project Buffalo
2007
Lawyer of The Year, Erie County Bar Association
2005
Presidents Pro Bono Award, NYS Bar Association
2005
Pro Bono Award- Mid Sized Firm, Volunteer Lawyers Project Buffalo
2005
President's Award for Service, Aids Community Services of WNY
2005
Pugash Award for Service, Jewish Family Services of Buffalo
2004
Shirley Pugas Award, Lupus Foundation
2003
Community Service Award, Hispanics United of Buffalo
2003
Special Service Award, Buffalo Board of Education
1997
Leadership Award, National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Work Experience
1980 - Present
Senior Partner, Jeffrey Freedman Attorneys at Law
1977 - 1985
Bankruptcy Trustee, United States Bankruptcy Court Western District of New York
1977 - 1980
Attiorney, Gannon and Gannon
Associations
2013 - Present
United States Department of Veterans AffairsCertified
2013 - Present
National Organization of Veterans AdvocatesMember
2009 - Present
Erie County Pennsylvania Bar Association
2009 - Present
Onondoga County Bar AssociationMember
2008 - Present
New York State Trial Lawyers Association
2007 - Present
Pennsylvania Bar Association
2000 - Present
Erie County Bar FoundationSteering Committee Member
1998 - Present
Monroe County Bar AssociationMember
1994 - Present
National Association of Consumer AdvocatesMember
1992 - Present
National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy AttorneysCo-Founder
1982 - Present
National Organization of Social Security Claimants RepresentativesSustaining member
1977 - Present
New York State Bar Association
1977 - Present
Bar Association of Erie County
Erie County Bar Association Disability Committee
Former Chair
1997 - 1999
New York State Bar AssociationSpecial Committee on Lawyer Advertising
1992 - 1996
National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy AttorneysFormer Vice President
Sample of Legal Cases
Social Security Disability
Obtained Social Security Disability benefits for 15,000 people
Consumer Bankruptcy
Have helped over 30,000 people resolve their debt problems.
Accident cases
Have obtained millions of dollars for injured clients.
Fair Debt Collections Practices Act
Obtained Settlements and Awards for clients who were illegally harassed by debt collectors.
Education
1976
Western New England College School of Law
JD
1972
American University
BS - Bachelor of Science
Speaking Engagements
2011
National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives
Social Security Disability Benefits
2011
Bar Association of Erie County
Ethics
2010
Bar Association of Erie County
Moderator for program- NYS Sales tax enforcement
2010
Bar Association of Erie County
Tough Ethics Issues That Matter to Lawyers
2007
National Organization of Social Security Claimants Representatives
Bankruptcy Abuse Protection Consumer Prorection Act of 2005
2007
Bar Association of Erie County
The Importance of the Practice of Law
2007
Bar Association of Erie County
Advertising and Ethics
2006
New York State Bar Association
Basics of Bankruptcy
2006
MCBA and ECBA Annual WNY Bankruptcy Conference
Chapter 7 viewpoint of the debtor's attorney
2005
New York State Bar Association
Bankruptcy Abuse Protection Consumer Protection Act of 2005
2005
National Association of Legal Professionals
The New Bankruptcy law
1996
National Bankruptcy Review Commission
Changes to the bankruptcy law
Publications
2009
Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
Getting a Fresh Start
2008
Social Security Disability Law
How to Get The Disability Benefits You Deserve
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Guides
Legal Answers
Q&A
I fell off a roof working under the table and hurt my back, now he wont pay us if I go to the doctor and wants me tosign release
31 Jul 2011
Q&A
Do I need a lawyer now to deal with the judgement against me and attempt to appeal or settle
31 Jul 2011
Q&A
How can I put a lien on my son's house due to unpaid debt with him in agreement?
31 Jul 2011