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Jeanne Ann Pennebaker
also known as JA Debt Law, Jeanne Ann Pennebaker, PLLC
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About Jeanne
Biography
With over 36 years of experience in bankruptcy law, litigation, and foreclosure defense, I help individuals and small businesses navigate financial distress to reclaim their financial future. As the founder of JA Debt Law in Charlotte, NC, I specialize in Chapter 7 and13 bankruptcy, debt negotiation, and protecting clients from predatory financial practices.
My career is rooted in Chicago, where I spent decades building and managing a successful law practice, arguing adversary proceedings, defending foreclosures, and handling FDCPA class actions. I’ve dedicated my professional life to mastering bankruptcy mechanics issues which continued with a move to North Carolina in 2009.
Whether you are a small business owner trying to restructure or an individual fighting to save your home or protect your car, I provide the seasoned, battle-tested representation you need.
Core Expertise: Chapter 7 & 13 Consumer Bankruptcy | Foreclosure Defense | Debt Negotiation | IRS Settlements
I am an active member of the Mecklenburg County Bar Association. Though I now center my practice in Charlotte, NC, I will always be a Chicagoan at heart—fueled by great blues, deep-dish pizza, and unwavering loyalty to Da Cubs and Da Bears. Connect with me to discuss how we can resolve your legal financial challenges.
Helping people get a fresh start for over 36 years. My client reviews say it all. Call for free consultation.
Helping people get a fresh start for over 36 years. My client reviews say it all. Call for free consultation.
Helping people get a fresh start for over 36 years. My client reviews say it all. Call for free consultation.
Helping people get a fresh start for over 36 years. My client reviews say it all. Call for free consultation.
Bringing 36 years experience to debt settlement and negotiation with creditors. Call for a free consultation.
Practice Areas
4
Practice Areas
Bankruptcy and Debt
55%
38 years
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
15%
38 years
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
15%
38 years
Debt Settlement
15%
38 years
Fees and Rates
Cost
Payment Methods
- Cash
- Check
- Credit Card
Awards
2025 2024 2023
...
+
5
Licenses
Licensed in North Carolina for 17 years
State: North Carolina
Acquired: 2009
No misconduct found
Licensed in Illinois for 37 years
State: Illinois
Acquired: 1989
No misconduct found
Location
Parking is Free
(704) 594-5119
Mobile
(704) 817-1510
Fax
6047 Tyvola Glen Circle, Charlotte, NC, 28217
jadebtlaw.com/Online Presence
Other places you can find Jeanne online.
Jeanne Ann Pennebaker's Reviews
Avvo Review Score
78 Client Reviews
Filter Avvo Reviews (78)
Refine reviews to match your needs. Use the filters to quickly surface reviews that align with your case or priorities.
Practice Areas
What Clients Mention
Showing 6 - 10 of 23 reviews | Professionalism
Posted by Pete | May 28, 2024 | Hired Attorney
Review for Jeanne Ann Pennebaker of JA Debt Law
I am deeply grateful for the exceptional service provided by Jeanne Ann Pennebaker at JA Debt Law. Navigating a Chapter 13 bankruptcy is never easy, but Jeanne Ann made the process as smooth and stress-free as possible, a relief in such a challenging time. From the beginning, she handled my case with...
Jeanne Pennebaker
Replied last May 28, 2024Oh my gosh, thank you! It was a pleasure to help you reach your financial goals and get back on track.
Posted by Jamila | September 11, 2023 | Hired Attorney
Nerveracking experience made simple!
I found Jeanne Ann Pennebaker right here on Avvo after she responded to my bankruptcy question. She was direct, responsive, and professional. I was skeptical about filing because I had a not-so-great experience in NY; However, Esquire Pennebaker kept me informed at every stage in the process. I am fo...
Jeanne Pennebaker
Replied last September 11, 2023So happy to have helped! Thank you.
Posted by Maria | December 27, 2021 | Hired Attorney
Attorney
Jeanne is by far one of the best individuals I’ve worked with in a while. Even though she is a bankruptcy attorney, it also felt very personable as well She gave sound and rational advice. Jeanne is a very intelligent, communicative, friendly, very thorough and sincere attorney. She made things simpl...
Posted by Roz | March 16, 2021 | Hired Attorney
The Best.....Thank you!
It was a pleasure working with Jeanne Ann. She walked us through the process and answered all our questions. She also kept us informed along the way. She actually listened to us and well you don't find many people who do these days. If your looking for someone who can help and answering you questions...
Posted by anonymous | March 08, 2021 | Hired Attorney
Jeanne Ann is the best Lawyer to hire!
I was very nervous at first but, Jeanne Ann helped answer all of my questions. Jeanne Ann was there for my 341 meetings and supported me every step of the way. I recently discharged all of my debts, and I feel free again. If you are thinking about filing for bankruptcy, I would highly recommend you c...
Jeanne Ann Pennebaker's Lawyer Endorsements
"I am impressed with Ms. Pennebaker's thoughtful advice and answers to legal questions on Avvo. She has an in-depth understanding of the law and an ability to communicate legal concepts clearly and effectively. I endorse this lawyer!"
"Jeanne Ann is a compassionate attorney who advocates for the very best outcomes for her clients. She is well-respected by the Courts and her reputation is top-notch!"
"I highly endorse this lawyer. Bankruptcy Attorneys are easy to find. Bankruptcy Attorneys that are diligent, responsive and attentive to your needs are not easy to find. Jeanne is one of those Attorneys who you will be happy that you have hired. She is who I send clients to that need bankruptcy help"
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer. Excellent attorney; I have observed her in court and in meetings of creditors in bankruptcy court."
"Jeanne Ann Pennebaker and her firm, RTS Law Group, are highly regarded in the legal community and I am comfortable referring bankruptcy cases to her."
"Jeanne is a skilled and knowledgeable attorney who provides quality representation for her clients. I endorse this attorney."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I highly endorse this lawyer for all Bankruptcy issues."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse Jeanne Ann. She is very knowledgeable and handles all her clients' matters with professionalism and great care."
"Ms. Pennebaker is a very fine lawyer associated with a highly regarded law firm."
"Jeanne is the first person I think when I get a call regarding a bankruptcy issue. She is knowledgable, thorough, and truly goes above and beyond to help her clients. I endorse Jeanne."
"Jeanne Ann is a fantastic lawyer. Not only is she knowledgeable about her practice area, she goes the extra mile to make her clients feel comfortable and always seeks the best possible outcome."
"I have previously worked with the RTS Law Group on a variety of cases, and I strongly recommend Jeanne for any Bankruptcy matters."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I endorse this lawyer."
"I've known Attorney Pennebaker for a while. She is extremely knowledgeable on the subject of bankruptcy law and I have heard nothing but great things from clients that I have referred over to her. I wouldnt hesitate to send future clients her way as I know she will do an excellent job!!"
"I endorse this lawyer."
Lisa Marie Johnson
Family lawyer
Winfred Ervin
Workers compensation lawyer
Danielle Walle
Bankruptcy and debt lawyer
G. Hunter
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Chad Buckingham
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Martin Kreshon
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Christopher Shelburn
DUI and DWI lawyer
Nathan Workman
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Laura Baker
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Ryan Smith
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Experience
Honors
2017
Legal Elite, Business North Carolina
2016
Legal Elite, Business North Carolina
2015
Honored Member, Continental Who's Who Legal
2011
Admitted to Practice, U.S. District Court for Middle District of N.C.
2010
Admitted to Practice, U.S. District Court for the Western District of N.C.
2009
Bankruptcy Bootcamp, O. Max Gardner
1989
Admitted to Practice, U.S. District Court for the Northern District of NC
1988
Participant and Team Leader, Jessup Int'l Moot Court
Work Experience
2017 - Present
Attorney, Jeanne Ann Pennebaker, PLLC
2019 - 2021
Managing Partner, Bochicchio & Pennebaker, PLLC
2009 - 2016
Senior Attorney, RTS Law Group
2005 - 2011
Attorney, J. A. Pennebaker Consulting
2004 - 2006
Of Counsel, Shaw & Foley
1997 - 2004
Attorney, Law Office of Jeanne Ann Pennebaker, Esq.
1992 - 1997
Attorney, Zalutsky and Pinski
1990 - 1992
Attorney, Robert J. Adams & Assoc.
1989 - 1990
Attorney, Dessen & Moses
Associations
2018 - Present
Executive Women of Lake NormanBoard of Directors
2016 - Present
Mecklenburg County Bar Association, Lawyer Referral Service CommitteeVice Chair
2015 - Present
WDNC Debtors Bar AssociationMember
2015 - Present
WDNC Women's Bankruptcy GroupMember
2009 - Present
Mecklenburg County Bar AssociationMember
2009 - Present
North Carolina Bar AssociationMember
1985 - Present
University of Illinois Alumni AssociationMember
1981 - Present
Sigma Kappa SororityMember
2015 - 2019
Executive Women of Lake NormanBoard Member, Officer
1997 - 2003
Association of Women Attorneys of Lake CountyMember
1989 - 1992
Illinois State Bar AssociationMember
1989 - 1992
Cook County Bar AssociationMember
1989 - 2003
Chicago Bar AssociationMember
1989 - 1999
Chicago Bar Association, Young Lawyers SectionMember
Sample of Legal Cases
Debt Negotiation Case
Saved the Clients $90,000
94 B 12537
Debtor awarded damages
95 B 00713
Debtor's case allowed, no bad faith found
90 B 12947
Debtor successfully challenged claim
92 B 14670
Case was confirmed
91 B 00605
Saved the house for the clients
90 B 22496
Saved the house for the clients
88 B 03185
lowered interest rate for clients on their car loan
Suit for Quiet Title
Saved the house for the clients
Personal Injury Jury Trial
Won Jury Verdict
Illinois Appellate Court Appeal
Judgment of the circuit court reversed
Education
1989
Depaul University College of Law
J.D.
1987
University of Notre Dame Law School
earned credits towards Doctor of Law (J.D.)
1985
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
B.A.
Speaking Engagements
2019
Middle School Mock Trial Competition
Coach of 1st place Middle School Mock Trial Team
2018
Middle School Mock Trial Competition
Coach of 1st place Middle School Mock Trial Team
2016
4All Statewide Service Day
Answer Legal Questions
2015
WDNC Women's Bankruptcy Cocktail Event
Bankruptcy
2015
MCB Cares 5K
Charity Fundraiser
2015
Girl Power Event
law as a career
2014
Client Collaboration and Bankruptcy Practice
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
2013
Money Management Is A Family Affair
Bankruptcy and Money Management
2012
Client Collaboration and Debt Negotiation
Debt Negotiation
2001
AWOLC Monthly Luncheon
Bankruptcy for Lawyers
1995
Law Day
Guest Judge
Publications
1997
203 B.R. 958 (N.D.Ill. 1997)
In Re Fisher
1996
198 B.R. 721 (N.D.Ill. 1996)
In Re Fisher
1994
162 B.R. 1014 (N.D.Ill. 1994)
In Re Hutchins
1993
151 B.R. 879 (N.D.Ill. 1993); 147 B.R. 435
Arnold v. First Credit Corp.
1991
124 B.R. 532 (N.D.Ill. 1991)
In re Hudock, Debtor 88 B 03185
Languages
English
Activity
Legal Answers
Legal Answers
Q&A
I would like to file for chapter 7 bankruptcy are there any lawyers who take payments for this.
03 Mar 2019
Q&A
Can i file chapter 7 bankruptcy in Mecklenburg county nc if i live in Cabarrus county nc?
03 Mar 2019