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Monica Marie Guilarte

Debt collection Attorney at Laurel, MD

5.0   23 reviews

also known as Guilarte Law

  • Licensed for 11 years
    State MD
    Acquired 2012
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.

About Monica

Learn Monica’s areas of practice.

The Law Office of Monica Guilarte LLC strives to achieve results that exceed client expectations through *being accessible, responsive and efficient *making client’s needs a priority through aggressive and vigilant representation in a cost-effective manner *providing an open, honest and sincere environment *recognizing that every client is unique and requires special care to tailor to their needs. 

 

Monica M. Guilarte was born on August 2, 1985. Monica’s father and grandparents were immigrants from Cuba and came to the United States in 1967 for a new beginning. They arrived knowing minimal to no English, and were only permitted to bring with them the clothes on their backs. Monica grew up hearing many stories from her grandparents of their struggles trying to survive in a foreign country. These stories heard at a very young age instilled in her qualities of determination, strength, and drive; qualities which would foster Monica to pursue her dream of becoming a lawyer.

Monica is a native to the Columbia area, and attended high school at River Hill High. It was during her high school years when Monica knew she wanted to pursue a career as a lawyer. She was always the “hard-head” of the family, arguing to the end of every discussion with her parents and siblings.

Upon graduating from River Hill High School, Monica continued her education and attended University of Florida in Gainesville, Florida. She pursued a degree in Criminology. Monica was on the Dean’s List and inducted into the Golden Key International Honor Society. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor of Arts and as an official Florida Gator!

Unsure if she was ready to immediately start law school, Monica moved back to Maryland in May 2007 to look for employment. In August of 2007, Monica was hired as a receptionist at Shapiro & Mack. While working as a receptionist and becoming engaged in the day to day activities of a lawyer, Monica knew for sure her high school goal of becoming a lawyer was what she wanted. Monica’s first step toward her dream was being accepted to the University of Baltimore School of Law in 2008. While working at Shapiro & Mack full time, Monica attended night classes at University of Baltimore. As she excelled in her academics at the Law School, Monica also worked her way up the ladder at Shapiro & Mack. Her passion and drive were paramount in her move from receptionist, to legal assistant, to paralegal at Shapiro & Mack.

As a paralegal, Monica worked closely alongside the attorneys at Shapiro & Mack in the firm’s primary practice areas of criminal defense, personal injury, and collections. Monica assisted the Shapiro & Mack attorneys on a number of cases, including but not limited to, being a part of the trial team that prevailed with dismissals on the only First Degree Murder case dismissed by the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office in this century.

In an effort to graduate early from Law School, Monica took summer classes each semester. Through many sacrifices and hard work, Monica graduated a semester early from University of Baltimore School of Law in December 2011. Her first attempt at the Maryland Bar exam was in February 2011. Monica was one of the 65% who passed the exam that year. Her dream was finally a reality.

Prior to starting her own firm, Monica worked as an associate attorney at Shapiro & Mack. During that time, she was the lead attorney handling the Collections Department. Monica also gained experience by handling personal injury cases, criminal and traffic matters, numerous motor vehicle administration hearings, and protective/peace order hearings.

On January 28, 2015, Monica made the decision to start her own firm and opened the Law Office of Monica Guilarte, LLC.

 

Photos and videos

Contact Monica

Law Office of Monica Guilarte LLC
647-A Main Street
Laurel, MD, 20707

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  23 customer reviews
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Posted by anonymous | December 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly recommend!
Monica Guilarte is incredibly knowledgeable and professional. She was always very responsive, easy to work with and she kept me updated every step of the way. I will recommend her again and again.
Posted by Ty | March 8, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceeded my expectations!
When I consulted with Ms. Guilarte she told me she could get my trail date pushed up sooner. & when I hired her she did just that & got It pushed up 3 weeks sooner. Got the case dismissed & expunged off my record along with some other cases from my past. I highly recommend her and will not be calling anyone else but her in the future.
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Posted by Brian | December 22, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Monica believes and Monica delivers
I had a very complex matter regarding my drivers license and the MVA due to legal circumstances . After consulting several local “big time” firms they all said the same thing- “you won’t be able to drive..it’s not going to happen...get used to Uber..etc” I approached Monica and never hesitated in her optimism to get the job done and navigate the brutal MVA hearing/rules process. When everyone else said “no” Monica said “yes” and now I am back on the road moving forward with my life. And on top of everything Monica didn’t charge me what the “big guys” were trying to charge for services. I am truly thankful
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Posted by Rebecca | March 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Professional, Extremely Easy to Work With
I hired Ms. Guilarte to collect on a judgment after the defendant failed to pay. She responded immediately to my email, and we conducted all correspondence over email (my preferred method). She was always quick to respond and kept me updated on the process. However, she didn't have to do this much, because she got the defendant to pay VERY quickly! I really appreciated her professionalism, the ease of working with her, and how great she clearly is at her job. I wouldn't hesitate to use her again for any other legal needs.
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Posted by Jessica | March 20, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Top Knotch Lawyer
Monica is a spectacular lawyer. I was in an auto accident (as a passenger) on 6/30/2016 but did not reach out to any lawyers because I assumed I could do it all myself at the time. I contacted Monica for a few questions, which she gladly answered and after a couple weeks or so of not getting the response I needed from the insurance company, I reached back out to Monica to retain her as my lawyer. Within 24 hours of hiring Monica, she was able to get me the answers I needed as well as an estimate from the insurance company. She kept me updated with every detail from reaching out to the doctors offices, collecting payments, & making sure the insurance companies were doing what they were supposed to. I trusted Monica to stay on top of everything so waiting for the insurance company to finally cut the check was worth the wait! I highly suggest Monica if you ever get into an auto accident. There are many lawyers to choose from, but from my personal experience, if you want someone you can trust and depend on, I recommend her!
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Posted by Jamal | January 29, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Experience
I was very skeptical about dealing with lawyers and accident cases prior to my recent accident. I was in an automobile accident and began experiecing back stiffness not too long after. Monica had been reccomended to me by a friend, so I gave her a call and we discussed what happend and if we should move foward. Long story short the other Insurance company didnt think I deserved any compensation for my injury, and was trying to claim I injured myself at work after my accident. Through out the whole case Monica was very heplful and communicated with me all the way to the end. I was always in the loop on what was going on with the case which was a huge plus because I moved out of state during the whole process. The case eventually went to court and thanks to Monica we ended up winning and rightfully so. Mrs. Guilarte is extremely good at what she does, very trustworthy, and made sure she did everything she could to help me iny case. I would highly recommend her and she was a pleasure to work with.
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Posted by Letisha | September 15, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Absolutely Amazing
Ms. Guilarte took our case even after we had been told by another law firm that it wasn't worth pursuing and that there wasn't a chance of us getting anything from it. Ms. Guilarte not only took our case but advocated for us every step of the way and helped us receive what we rightfully deserved. Ms. Guilarte was professional and kept us up to date, via email and calls at every turn. She knows what she's doing and explains it to you in ways you can understand. We are beyond grateful for her dedication and hard work. For taking what other seemed impossible and making it possible.
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Posted by Marcus | July 2, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professionalism at its finest!
Monica was terrific, professional and highly efficient at resolving my car accident case. I found her communication with this matter to be outstanding and meticulously thorough! I would definitely recommend her services to anyone in need of high quality legal assistance.
Posted by Kippy Day | February 11, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Shark!!!
Ms. Guilarte is a qualified, competent attorney who continuously works on your behalf! Working with Ms. Guilarte was a breath of fresh air, she not only listened to me; Ms. Guilarte went the extra mile to make sure as a client I was represented to the best of her ability and with the highest integrity and professionalism. If you need to get the job done with superior results, one attorney comes to mind…Ms. Guilarte, without a doubt!!! I turned to her for a referral and Ms. Guilarte said…I can do that….and she did it without hesitation, she got the job done…quickly! If you need an attorney don’t look any further, Ms. Guilarte is someone you need on your team!!!
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Posted by anonymous | January 30, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
24-7
Monica has been available for advice for legal issues whenever I communicate . While not needing a lawyer I know who to recommend and who I will use in the event . Very professional but adaptable to all . Makes me confident . She always advised a friend on a court case with great information to prepare before charges were presented !
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Posted by Wesley Austin | July 30, 2015
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Best Lawyer in the DMV
Ms. Guilarte and her office provided me with wonderful service and information concerning my case. I contacted her with legal questions about my case and with her extensive knowledge in Law, she helped me Win my case!
Posted by Nadie | June 2, 2015
Efficient, witty, and knows the law!!
I contacted Attorney Monica Guilarte for a Collections matter that I was having trouble resolving on my own. Monica jumped in asked the right questions and got in contact with the other parties promptly. Although the other attorney was difficult to deal with, Monica stood her ground and ensured that we came out with the best settlement to meet my needs. Monica refused to take no for an answer and fought to make sure that our case was settled with terms that were manageable. I hope that I don't have another collection matter that I need to deal with, but if I do or anyone I know, I know who to call! At times I got extremely busy with my day to day life and Monica made sure that she contacted me daily with updates on the case no matter how significant. With everything else going on in my day to day life, it was nice to know that I had an attorney on my side that was knowledgeable and had my best interest at heart. Thank you Monica for all of your hard work on my case.. YOU ROCK!!!!
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Posted by anonymous | May 21, 2015
Ms. Guilarte is knowledgable and trustworthy
I called Ms. Guilarte for some quick legal advice which was needed urgently. Ms. Guilarte not only responded in the quickest manner but had all the answers to my questions including much needed advice. I believe Ms. Guilarte is a very skilled lawyer, she gives wonderful customer service, and I've never felt more comfortable as her client. I will only be using her services in the future.
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Posted by debbie | May 3, 2015
Mistaken Identity
I will highly recommend Ms. Guilarte to anyone that needs a responsible and trustworthy attorney. Ms. Guilarte resolved my case of mistaken identity in a timely and successful manner. Her knowledge of the judicial system is of great compassion. I will continue to acquire Ms. Guilarte's services in the future if ever needed. Job well done!
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Posted by Ken | April 7, 2015
Collections
We are a very large dental practice and Monica Guilarte has been handling our collections. In the past, the attorney that was handling our collections did a very poor job. It is a pleasure to have Monica handling everything for us. We look forward to a long and meaningful relationship with Monica.
Posted by Taj Murphy | April 6, 2015
An attorney you can count on.
It is with great pride that I endorse Ms. Guilarte. She is competent counsel that provides timely and diligent service. She is well versed in both civil and criminal law and epitomizes customer service. Ms. Guilarte is there to make sure you are happy with your result. I would strongly recommend Ms. Guilarte. As a member of the Maryland bar that has asked Ms. Guilarte to stand in for me on more than one occasion with nothing short of expected results, I commend her for her dedication to her clients, her peers and the practice of law.
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Posted by Ryan T | September 24, 2014
Honest, Hard working, Excellent Customer Service
Ms. Guilarte is by far one of the premier lawyers in the state of Maryland. She is quick and effective, performing above and beyond expectation. I have personally worked with her and although it was an unexpected incident, she was responsive at the most inconvenient time. Ms. Guilarte is extremely knowledgeable, professional and gives you all the details upfront, no hidden secrets. I knew that to her, its not about the money but the representation of the client and the overall outcome. I highly recommend her services to anyone who needs them.
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Posted by Danny | September 24, 2014
If You're Looking For The Best, Contact This Amazing Young Lady!
I've worked with Monica on and off for about 5 years now and I assure you it's been a great 5 years. I wouldn't dare go into a court room without her by my side. What makes Monica unique is her drive and commitment to her career and doing anything and everything it takes to get the job done. She's gone above and beyond for me time and time again and I'm forever thankful for this. These days, good people who take pride in what they do are getting harder and harder to find. Monica falls into that rare category of smart, hard working and driven, all rolled into one. She's not only very good at what she does (winning cases in the courtroom) but she's also a very kind, giving and genuine person as well. Trust me, when it comes time to hit the courtroom, that drive, commitment, attitude and mindset that Monica brings to the table is the exact reason you should want her by your side. Long story short, Monica is awesome and I 100% highly recommend her!
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Posted by Carl | September 24, 2014
Criminal Court Case Dismissed
Hired Monica in July when I had had been pulled over for driving with a suspended license in MD. She stated that she didn't work specifically with traffic court but would refer me to another attorney who would. She made a call, I showed up in court and my case was dismissed. No fee or anything. She is amazing beyond words. I would definitely be recommending her to other friends and family.
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Posted by anonymous | September 24, 2014
Debt Collection Review
Monica has handled debt collection for my business for the past 2 years and has done a great job managing delinquent accounts in a professional manner. Communication is always prompt.
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Cost

Rates
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.6 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Law Office of Monica Guilarte
  • 2015 - Present
  • Lawyer
  • Shapiro & Mack
  • 2012 - 2015
  • Paralegal
  • Shapiro & Mack
  • 2007 - 2012

Education

  • University of Baltimore School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 2012
  • University of Florida
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 2007

Associations

  • Maryland State Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Howard County Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Woman's Maryland Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Woman's Howard County Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Maryland Association for Justice
  • Member
  • N/A
  • Maryland Criminal Defense Attorneys' Association
  • Member
  • N/A
  • American Bar Association
  • Member
  • N/A
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2018
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2017
  • Top 100 Trial Lawyers
  • National Trial Lawyers Association
  • 2017
  • Rising Star
  • Super Lawyers
  • 2016
  • 10 Best
  • American Institute of Personal Injury Lawyers
  • 2016
  • Top 10 Under 40
  • National Academy of Criminal Defense Attorneys
  • 2016
View all awards

Attorney endorsements

Received (8)
Given (9)
Endorse Monica
Criminal defense Attorney | Mar 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An absolute asset to the legal community. Ms. Guilarte gives every client her all and the results speak for themselves. She has always been at the top of her craft and it is a pleasure to see her work. She is skilled in her abilities to negotiate and in trial. You're in very good hands with Monica Guilarte."
Debt collection Attorney | Nov 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Debt settlement Attorney | Oct 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I am happy to endorse Monica Marie Guilarte. Ms Guilarte is quick witted and has a broad understanding of how the legal systems works in reality in addition to understanding legal theory, often called "mumbo jumbo" by clients."
Debt collection Attorney | Oct 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Guilarte is a true professional and knows her way around the courtroom."
Debt collection Attorney | Apr 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Guilarte is aggressive, professional, and knowledgable. Clients that use her services are in good hands."
Debt collection Attorney | Apr 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I'm very excited to endorse Ms. Guilarte. She is competent, respected within the legal community and always well prepared. She also has tremendous work ethic which is evidenced by the magnificent effort she puts forth on behalf of her clients. Clients are always in good hands when Ms. Guilarte is on their side."
Personal injury Attorney | Apr 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Ms. Guilarte is a highly skilled and confident attorney. When it comes to negotiations or trial, I've never seen her give anything but her best and her clients love her for it! She is truly an asset to the legal community."
General practice Attorney | Oct 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Guilarte is conscientious and professional and truly cares about helping her clients through the difficult legal situations they are facing. She takes the time to get to know her clients as people and in helping them to develop a strategy for moving forward from their current circumstances to the new future they want to create."
View more endorsements
Personal injury
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense
Criminal defense