Debra G. Speyer

PRO

Debra G. Speyer

4.7
44 reviews
This is an aggregated review score of Avvo and Lawyers.com reviews.
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 39 years

Securities and investment fraud Lawyer at Bala Cynwyd, PA
Practice Areas: Securities & Investment Fraud, Elder Law, Probate ... +4 more

Two Bala Plaza, Suite 300, Bala Cynwyd, PA

Virtual Consultation Available

About Debra

Biography

Are you drained by a family situation? Let me help you sort it out and come up with a solution.

Let me help you with your probate, guardianship, estate planning and investment fraud recovery.

Trust planning can be very draining. Let me help you sort things out and come up with a solution.

Administering an estate can be hectic and time consuming. You don't know where to start. Let me help

Estate Planning can be very draining as you need to face your mortality. Let me help guide you.

Estate Planning can be very draining as you need to face your mortality. Let me help guide you.

Are you drained by the family situation? Let me help you sort out the pieces and come up with a plan

Have you lost money from stockbroker negligence? Let me help you recovery your investment losses.

Practice Areas

7

Practice Areas

Elder Law 20%

36 years | 1,000 cases

20%
Probate 20%

36 years | 500 cases

20%
Securities and Investment Fraud 20%

40 years | 1,000 cases

20%
Estate Planning 10%

36 years | 1,000 cases

10%
Guardianship 10%

36 years | 360 cases

10%
Trusts 10%

36 years | 180 cases

10%
Wills and Living Wills 10%

36 years | 1,000 cases

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Hourly Rates

$ 360-550 per hour

Contingency

40%-40%

Pro bono

10 %


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2016 2013 2011
Silver Client Champion
Distinguished Peer Review Rating

Licenses

Licensed in Maryland for 15 years

State: Maryland

Acquired: 2010

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in District of Columbia for 37 years

State: District of Columbia

Acquired: 1988

Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in Florida for 37 years

State: Florida

Acquired: 1988

Member in Good Standing

No misconduct found

Licensed in New York for 39 years

State: New York

Acquired: 1986

Due to Reregister within 30 days of Birthday

No misconduct found

Licensed in Connecticut for 39 years

State: Connecticut

Acquired: 1986

Active

No misconduct found

Licensed in Pennsylvania for 39 years

State: Pennsylvania

Acquired: 1986

Active

No misconduct found

Location

Debra G. Speyer Law Offices

Two Bala Plaza, Suite 300, Bala Cynwyd, PA, 19004

speyerlaw.com

Debra G. Speyer Law Offices

1515 Market Street, Suite 1200, Philadelphia, PA, 19102-1754

speyerlaw.com

Debra G. Speyer Law Offices

3908 Leafy Way, Coconut Grove, FL, 33133

speyerlaw.com

Online Presence

Other places you can find Debra online.

Debra G. Speyer's Reviews

Showing 1 - 5 of 5 reviews | Compassion

Posted by Gwendolyn | August 24, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Probate

A necessary asset when navigating probates

As executor for both my father and sister's estates, I found myself out-of-my-league in completing the numerous court documents and deadlines needed to meet the State's requirement. Additionally, I was steering this during recovery from a heart transplant. Debra was invaluable to me, working closely... to complete the inheritance tax requirements, determine the disbursement of funds to their heirs and nursing me along to submit the required documents needed for closeout. I'd hire her again in a heartbeat (no pun intended) and have recommended her to others to use her services. That, for me, is giving good advice,

Posted by Gwen | May 05, 2021 | Hired Attorney | Guardianship

Guardianship

I have been so stressed trying to have my mother court appointed guardian terminated since my mother was no longer in the nursing facility, and back home with me. I called and several agency and even paid for consultation and never heard back from anyone. But once I call called attorney Debra Speyer ...March 22,2021 I knew I was in good hands. She was very knowledgeable with the process and the people that I have been in contact with, I sent her my court papers and she said “oh this is easy I can take care of this for you”. And she was up on it that night !! she was corresponding with all parties involve. She and I was in a conference call with the administrator from the nursing facility, and they administrator said to Debra “I know you, I know you because you are the only person that I know that shows up for your clients appointments, you really care about your people” at that moment I felt some safe. I knew that I choice the right lawyer. She is the most kind spirited person I ever talk to, and she knows her stuff..Debra Speyer is an attorney who’s cares about people, who listens to your concerns, and who will fight for your family. She alleviate so much stress out of my life so that I could just focus on caring for my mother. 4 wise. later I am now my mother guardian.

Posted by anonymous | April 25, 2016 | Hired Attorney | Debt Collection

Debra Speyer is an excellent attorney who really helped me

Debra Speyer is a great attorney who really helped me. I am a law school graduate, not a practicing attorney, thus I hope all of you out there will take my recommendation seriously. Debra was very responsive, knowledgeable and personable. She advised me regarding my being unjustly attached to a col...lection debt that was not mine. Not only did Debra help me, she also helped the entire community by reporting the collection agency to the relevant state authorities for their improper behavior. If you want a real professional who cares, hire Debra.

Posted by Marilyn | April 13, 2012 | Elder Law

Debra Speyer, A Superb Attorney

Debra Speyer is a superb attorney, who is trust worthy, dedicated, analytical, at the top of her profession. I retained Debra Speyer because of family/elder law lawsuit, in which my brother sued me for breach of fiduciary duty, due to actions I took as my mother's Power of Attorney. Because I l...ive in California, but the case was in Pennsylvania, complicated it that much more. From 2008 through 2011, Debra was available, and at my side, with every twist and turn of my case. She called me late at night when it was necessary. She worked tirelessly during months of final negotiations to bring about closure for me. Her passion for her profession is notable. I can say with certainty, her client's well being is her top priority. With each stumbling block that occurred over these years, Debra's response was immediate, and with expertise. Debra recognizes that the interest of the client is not always served by rushing to court. She, therefore, looks for opportunities to bring about resolution through a negotiated settlement, never loosing sight of her client's interests. While a fine litigator; she is primarily a superb negotiator. Moreover, Debra understands the nuances of law, as well as strategy. When I faced years of adversarial litigation, Debra assisted me, at my request, in retaining another attorney, so that I could strategically place my brother in a negotiating stance. Prior to this action, my brother literally held hostage my mother's estate, by refusing to communicate, and by refusing to sign an out of court agreement, to which he had agreed. Even with pressure from the judge hearing the case, my brother acted with defiance. Debra never gave up or compromised me. The trust I placed with her was earnestly earned by her. Few people in this world can retain one's trust. But I can honestly attest, Debra upheld her every word and action. I hold the highest esteem of Attorney Debra Speyer.

Posted by -chaz. | November 15, 2011 | Lawsuits & Disputes

GRACE UNDER FIRE

I have worked with Debra G. Speyer for nearly four years and she has provided me and my family with the highest level of care and legal counsel. She is knowledgeable on every matter I’ve presented before her, and her warmth, intellect, guidance and expertise kept me feeling safe while providing me... with the much needed hope through a most grueling and unwanted family matter. I had never needed legal advice in the past, but when I was locked out of the decision-making process with regard to the care of my mother - best friend, biggest fan and staunchest supporter - I could not rest until I knew that she was provided with the space to live out her final days with the dignity, grace and independence that she not only deserved but that were so characteristic of her nature. If my mother had been happy with the decisions that were being thrust upon her, it would not have been an issue; but she was not content, confided in me and asked for my help. Dealing with the elderly can be difficult at times – they can no longer to do things they once were able and may require a certain amount of supervision. But that level of care can be a mercurial thing. And so I thus became her long-distance and reluctant advocate; reluctant only in the fact that I did not want to cross an unreasonable older brother. But when I received a letter from his attorney, demanding that I “stay out of it” I simply could not and knew not where to turn. The legal arena was unchartered territory for me and from New York to Philly I felt at a great loss. Enter Debra Speyer. I could not have asked for more in an attorney than what Debra so graciously and so generously provided. She was more than could be expected of anyone called upon for assistance. Debra brought not only her knowledge and expertise to a strained situation but did it in a dignified and respectful manner that was most appreciated. She was so sensitive to our needs and so insightful right from the beginning that I felt she had been there all along even though I had yet to spend an hour in her presence. Her sense of immediacy and her ability to clarify what seemed like insurmountable obstacles – in terms we could understood - infused a hopeless situation with confidence. Her access to peripheral resources and her choices in a multitude of matters are impeccable. In a meeting or confrontational setting with opposing attorneys, she carries herself with poise and elegance and yet she can slice through the opponent in the calmest of tones punctuated with a sophisticated dramatic flair … and all in a nano-second. It’s really quite impressive!!! Let me say this … I was floored and she was on my side!!! If there is one thing I can say about Debra it is that she is guided by the right thing to do; and no matter what, she never loses sight of that goal. I was never left wondering if I was doing the right thing or worried in that regard about anything at all. I was always left knowing in my heart of hearts that what was being done and the way it was being handled, was the right thing to do. But it is perhaps her compassion, especially for the underdog, that is Debra’s most distinctive signature. After the death of my mother Debra handled estate matters with a strength that was much needed during a time of consuming grief. It is from the heart that I say that knowing Debra has been a godsend and she has been a positive force throughout and beyond a pivotal moment in my life. I say this partly in jest, but if you have the unfortunate experience of needing an attorney you would be fortunate to hire Debra G. Speyer.

See All Client Reviews

Debra G. Speyer's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Debra
Chad Allan Mooney headshot
Chad Mooney

Litigation lawyer | Nov 27

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Debra Speyer and I worked on a dispute together. She is well organized and presents insightful arguments and presentations. I would highly recommend her to handle my own affairs."

Reuben A. Guttman headshot
Reuben Guttman

Unknown lawyer | Aug 05

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Debra Speyer is one of the nation's leading securities arbitration counsel. As Chair of the National AAJ Busines Torts Section for 2010-2011, she focused a national debate on cutting edge areas of law. She has done an amazing job of balancing her professional obligations with teaching responsibilties as a Law Professor at Drexel University."

Jeffrey Peters Coleman headshot
Jeffrey Coleman

Securities and investment fraud lawyer | May 23

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I have known Ms. Speyer for over a decade. She and I have been members of a group of lawyers that advocate for investor protection and represent investors against banks, trust departments and broker dealers. Ms. Speyer is a fine lawyer who works diligently to fight for investors rights and for her individual clients. I am proud to have her as a valued collegue in this area of the law."

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Estate planning lawyer | Dec 19

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Excellent lawyer."

View All Endorsements
Chad Allan Mooney headshot
Chad Mooney

Real estate lawyer

Jeffrey Peters Coleman headshot
Jeffrey Coleman

Securities and investment fraud lawyer

Reuben A. Guttman headshot
Reuben Guttman

Litigation lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2025

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2024

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2023

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2022

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2021

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2020

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2019

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2018

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2017

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2016

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2015

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2014

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2013

Best Lawyers of Montgomery County, Surburban Life Magazine

2013

Best Lawyers of the Main Line, Main Line Magazine

2013

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers Magazine

2013

Million Dollar Advocates Forum Since 1990, Million Dollar Advocates Forum

2012

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2011

Super Lawyer, Super Lawyers

2010

Who's Who in American Law Since 1990, Marquis

N/A

"Women Making History" Award, National Organization of Women Business Owners

N/A

Best Lawyers of Philadelphia, Philadelphia Magazine

N/A

Women to Watch, Arrive Magazine

Work Experience

2010 - Present

Adjunct Professor of Law, Drexel Law School

1990 - Present

President, Debra Speyer Law Offices

1988 - 1990

Prosecutor, Financial Industry Regulatory Authority

1984 - 1987

Vice President/Counsel, Thomson McKinnon

1980 - 1984

Law Clerk, Judge Michael Solomon

Associations

2010 - Present

Maryland Bar Association

Member

2008 - Present

British Law Society

Member

1993 - Present

American Trial Lawyers Association

Officer

1992 - Present

Pennsylvania Securities Commission

Lawyer Advisory Committee

1992 - Present

American Association for Justice

Officer

1991 - Present

Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association

Member

1990 - Present

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

Member

1990 - Present

Court of Common Pleas

Arbitrator

1990 - Present

FINRA

Arbitrator

1990 - Present

National Association of Women Business Owners.

Member

1988 - Present

Philadelphia Bar Association

Member

1988 - Present

Florida Bar

Member

1988 - Present

District of Columbia Bar

Member

1986 - Present

Connecticut Bar Association

Member

1986 - Present

Pennsylvania Bar Association

Member

1986 - Present

New York State Bar Association

Member

1984 - Present

American Bar Association

Member

Sample of Legal Cases

S.L. vs. T.O and S.O

146k Requested, 437k Awarded

F.W. vs. E&Y and J.B.

77k Requested, 77k Award plus interest

M.B. vs R.J.S.

$1.1 settlement

V.S. vs. L.M.

67k Requested, 66k Awarded

B.T. vs. P

194k Requested, 182k awarded

R.K vs. P.A.M.

380k Requested, $371 Awarded

See More Legal Cases

Education

1986

Hofstra University

M.B.A

1984

Hofstra University School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

1980

Hofstra University

B.B.A.

Speaking Engagements

2011

Pennsylvania Bar Law Practice Management Institute

Law Practice Management

2011

Pennsylvania Bar Institute Twelth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2011

Anatomy of a Ponzi Scheme

Ponzi Scheme Litigation

2011

American Association for Justice

Business Torts

2010

PA Assoc of Licensed Investigators Annual Meeting

Elder Fraud

2010

American Association for Justice

Nuts and Bolts of Business Litigation

2009

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: 11th Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2009

American Association for Justice

Securities Arbitration

2008

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Tenth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2008

AAJ (Formerly Association of Trial Lawyers of American) Meeting

Investment Fraud

2007

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Ninth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2006

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Eighth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2005

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Seventh Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2004

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Sixth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2003

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Fifth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2002

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Fourth Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2001

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Third Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

2000

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: Second Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

1999

Pennsylvania Bar Institute: First Annual Legal Issues in an Age of Aging

Elder Law

N/A

Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association

Hedge Fund Fraud

N/A

Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association

Securities Fraud

N/A

Public Investors Arbitration Bar

Insurance Fraud

N/A

Philadelphia Corporation for Aging: Elder Fraud Conference

Elder Fraud

N/A

Pennsylvania Securities Commission Elder Fraud Conference

Securities Fraud

N/A

Pennsylvania Insurance Commission Elder Fraud Conference

Elder Fraud

Publications

N/A

Trial (American Association for Justice) Hedge Fund Fraud

N/A

Pennsyvania Bar Institute Elder Fraud-Legal Issues in An Age of Aging

N/A

Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association (PIABA) Insurance Products

N/A

Public Investors Arbitration Bar Association (PIABA) Insurance Industry Issues

N/A

AAJ Business Torts Newsletter Getting Grandma's Nest Egg Back

N/A

AAJ Business Torts Newsletter Promissory Note Fraud

Activity

Avvo Rating

Our Rating is calculated using information the lawyer has included on their profile in addition to the information we collect from state bar associations and other organizations that license legal professionals. Attorneys who claim their profiles and provide Avvo with more information tend to have a higher rating than those who do not.

What determines Avvo Rating?
  • Experience & background Years licensed, work experience, education
  • Legal community recognition Peer endorsements, associations, awards
  • Legal thought leadership Publications, speaking engagements
  • Discipline Disciplinary information may not be comprehensive, or updated. We recommend that you always check a lawyer's disciplinary status with their respective state bar association before hiring them.
Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution