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John Griffin Watts

Consumer protection Attorney at Birmingham, AL

4.9   197 reviews
  • Licensed for 28 years
    State AL
    Acquired 1995
    Status
    Occupational License - Authorized to Practice No misconduct found

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

About John

Learn John’s areas of practice.

3
Practice areas
  1. Consumer protection
    60%
    Consumer protection means laws and strategies to protect consumers from abusive companies --whether it is debt collectors, credit reporting agencies, credit card companies, mortgage companies, etc. We show you your rights and help you to take the right action. So that you can get back to your life and not worry about these abusive companies anymore.

    28 years, 400 cases

  2. Personal injury
    25%
    Personal injury involves everything from car crashes to defective drugs and medical devices to train crossing cases. In my career I have handled all of these and more. My philosophy is the same in all areas -- I help people understand their rights and then encourage them to take action. Knowing is not enough -- we have to take action to have success. I'll help you understand your options and then you decide what is best for you and your family.

    28 years, 300 cases

  3. Bankruptcy and debt
    15%
    I have helped hundreds of Alabama consumers who are facing illegal and abusive debt collection tactics (including being sued in a collection suit) WITHOUT filing for bankruptcy. Whether it is an original creditor (credit card, auto loan, etc) or a bill collector, there are laws that protect you. I am glad to send you information about your rights so you can decide the best way to handle an abusive debt collector or creditor so that they will treat you with dignity and respect.

    28 years, 500 cases

There are many things about my work that I enjoy but the part that is most satisfying is taking a bad situation and turning it into a good situation.  

 

I often have clients that come in very upset over a situation.  Maybe they are facing foreclosure.  Or dealing with an abusive debt collector.  Or their credit reports are so incorrect that they are losing their security clearance or they are losing a mortgage over it.  Other times clients are dealing with the constant pain of injuries from a car wreck.

 

They are frustrated and upset to have to deal with this problem.  They don't have accurate information on their rights and options.  This is exactly where the insurance companies, debt collectors, and mortgage companies want you to be.

 

Unsure of your rights and unsure of what action to take.  You see they assume that you:

 

  1. Don't know your rights; and/or
  2. Even if you know your rights you won't take action.

When you think about it, they only have to be right on one of these assumptions.  If you don't know your rights, it is almost certain that you will not take the right action.

But even if you do know your rights, if you don't take any action, then those who have mistreated you and harmed you "get away it."

So my mission, and the part I enjoy the most about my work, is to help you understand your rights and understand and motivate you to take the best action.  No one knows what's best for you other than you - when you have the knowledge of your rights and your options, then you can make the best choice for you.

So often we can take a bad situation and turn it around into a positive.  Not only receiving compensation but foreclosures can be stopped or overturned.  Debt collectors can be stopped.  Credit reports can be corrected.  Even with personal injury claims, you can move forward with your life.

We have a wealth of materials to share with you to help you learn more about your rights and options on what action to take.  We also enjoy sitting down with you to bring all of the information together in one place and help you understand how it applies to you.

Let us know how we can help you.

Photos and videos

Alabama consumer discusses his experience with being sued and being represented by John G. Watts.
Illegal phone calls and voicemails to your cell phone by a debt collector.
Your biggest danger when sued by a debt buyer in Alabama.
Here are some examples of illegal third party contacts by debt collectors.
View more

Contact John

Similar lawyers nearby

John Griffin Watts
301 19th Street North
Birmingham, AL, 35203

Reviews

4.9 / 5.0
  197 customer reviews
Posted by James | December 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Very Impressive Team
Mr Watts initially contacted me by letter. I read the letter and thought it was too good to be true. You just don't read letters like this one, really, hardly ever. The letter was placed on my desk and not ignored but thought it was too good to be true. A second letter came and I read it again but this time thought if this man is going to take the time to reach out to me twice, by letter, I owe it to him to place a call. From this point in the process forward it was simply, simple!! Next I was talking with two members of his team and before I knew it, matter was closed. The matter was involving a debt collector though regardless of your issue at hand you should give this man a call and see if he can help you. I will use him, again and again. He can be trusted. Thank you for reading.
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Posted by Andrea | October 23, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Mr. Watts & his team
After being sued by a debtor, I didn't know what to do, I contacted Watts & Herring, and Mr. Watts and his team calmed me down and assured me that it would be ok. They are very professional and helped me every step of the way. I am very grateful and I thank you. If you are looking for help with debtors, I recommend Mr. Watts and his team at Watts & Herring.
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Posted by Louis | October 20, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
You people are fantastic
They went to court for me and it was dismissed I would recommend you I'm very happy with you thank you
Posted by Charlette Jackson | May 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Help Prople
Mr. Watt the women that you have working for you are very professional I enjoy talking to them and also it’s a pleasure to know that people is still out there to help other people with creditors doing the wrong. Thank you so much I would recommend you to anyone.
Posted by Therrsa | May 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Recommend!
I am truly impressed with this law firm. My problem was handled quickly and efficiently. I highly recommend John Watts law firm and I’m happy that I called them when I did.
Posted by Mike | May 3, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
REAL! Honest and Trustworthy.
Despite my efforts to work with my debtors after a prolonged work related injury, I was being sued. John and his team offered a plan to deal with the lawsuit and how we could be proactive with others. After years of frustration and no progress, finally something is working for me. Words aren't enough to express my true feelings. Thanks
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Posted by anonymous | March 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
professional
He was such a help for with a debt collector. His staff is always courteous and helpful in every step of the way. I would recommend him to anyone whom is having difficulty legal issues and debt collectors- Debbie W
Posted by Rick | March 17, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional Attorneys you can trust
At Waytts Herring you will find a organization you can trust. After trying to handle an issue with a second mortgage myself, I could tell it was over my head. After contacting WattsHerring I spoke to(Randi), and she quickly lined me up with Mr. Watts. He knew what was needed to resolve this this infraction.You will not find a better organization. They are very professional, organized, lot of flexibility, personality, friendly and the attorneys know how to handle each situation. THEY KNOW THE LAW. And easy to work with.
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Posted by anonymous | March 6, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Do not miss the opportunity to work with Watts & Herring!
Absolute experts in their field, and professionals all the way. They get the job done the right way. The collections business is a racket and Watts & Herring knows how to save you from being harassed, risking personal information, and giving away money. Most importantly, they care about people. Yes, they must earn an income, otherwise, they wouldn't be in business. But what or how they financially gain is never a key factor. As a matter of fact, it’s much further down the list. They genuinely want to help, and it's clear from the first meeting. They’ll work with you if you’re in a crunch and still deliver the best results possible. I know this because they've saved me a few times now! You'll regret not working with these guys!
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Posted by Tracy | February 21, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Sued by LVNV Funding
I want to personally thank you Mr. Watts and your Team, I Spoke with John and Becky on the phone and they eased my mind…When I first received the letter I was going through a Cancer scare and my emotions were all over the place…Once I spoke with John, he immediately took the Burden off my shoulders and said it was handled, I knew then I was in good hands!!! Also Becky helped me so much and was so kind, I have gone through so much in my life and she really was a joy to talk too!!! Thanks again for you and your Team, if anyone I know needs a Lawyer, I will definitely recommend to you all!
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Posted by Quinzetta | October 21, 2022
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Relieved
I received a letter regarding a suit on a debt that I didn’t recall. It frustrated to no end. I mentioned it to a friend and ironically she happened to have a flyer for Atty Watts Law firm for the same type matter , different company. I chose to resolve mines and made the call. It was the best experience with this firm. As such, it was resolved in a timely manner and I would definitely recommend. They get infinite stars ⭐️ from me.
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Posted by Loretta | September 23, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Wonder Ending
I received a certified letter notifying me that a debt collector was suing me. I immediately became gripped with anxiety and fear. I called the company that I thought was the debt collector, but it was not. They referred me to Mr. Watts after I finished telling them my story. Attorney Watts took over my case. Everything was settled just as he promised. I would highly recommend him to anyone.
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Posted by D | August 15, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellence
We received a certified letter from the Clerk of Court stating we were being sued by a debt buyer. Numbness, and fear took over. However, we called Attorney Watts’ law firm. We were assured they would do everything possible to help. Attorney Watts took over our case. Everything has been settled. I have already referred him to several colleagues. I hope they are smart enough to use him as their attorney.
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Posted by anonymous | March 7, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Peace of Mind
I was at home with my children on a Sunday getting ready for the new week, and suddenly there was a loud knock on the door. I was being served by a debt collector I had never even heard of, and I was filled with so much anxiety that I became distracted with what I needed to do next. I couldn't focus for the rest of the day because the timeline to respond was so short, just 14 days. I called the office of John Watts and I was put at ease right away. They settled this case and had it dismissed in such a fast and simple way. I'd recommend John Watts to anyone in Alabama that is dealing with these types of lawsuits.
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Posted by anonymous | February 11, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A great help. Hire him!
An aggressive debt collector decided to sue me, an unemployed human during a pandemic. Not only was their actions unexpected they were inhumane. Thank you for Attorney Watts and his colleagues for accepting me as a client and handling the litigation.
Posted by Ginger | January 20, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Saved my sanity!
It has been years since my case but I was in the process of moving my entire household into storage. I thought there was no hope but I found John Watts letter and reached out. He stopped the wrongful foreclosure and I received a reasonable solution with one of the big companies. I am so thankful for all they have done. They also answer questions if you reach out with other issues. These are the good guys!
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Posted by Jeff | November 17, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding
I was being sued by a debt buyer whom I didn't feel was entitled to my money, since I had no business relationship with them whatsoever. Mr. Watts had the case settled well before it went to trial. I would not hesitate to retain thier services again. (Although I certainly hope I won't need too)
Response from John Watts November 18, 2021
Jeff thank you for leaving us feedback! We enjoyed representing you... Thank you again for taking the time to leave us a review! John Watts
Posted by anonymous | October 11, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lvnv
Got a letter of being sued and was worried of being wage garnishment. Called watts lawfirm they ensured me they would take care of this issue for me not worry.and they resolved it quickly.
Response from John Watts November 18, 2021
Thank you for leaving us a review -- we deal a lot with LVNV and we are glad it was resolved for you quickly. Thank you again for taking the time to give us feedback! John Watts
Posted by anonymous | August 20, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
A true lifesaver!
We received a letter stating we were being sued by a debt collector. We immediately called Mr. Watts and he calmed our fears and helped us step by step through the process. Professional, responsive, and truly a voice of hope when the news of the lawsuit rocked our world.
Response from John Watts November 18, 2021
Getting a lawsuit is a very stressful event and I'm glad you reached out for help. Thank you for leaving us a review! John Watts
Posted by Brandon | July 29, 2021
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Case dismissed with prejudice.
I was being sued by a debt buyer. At 5:30pm while eating dinner with my family the Sheriff's Dept. showed up at my house to serve me civil papers. I have never had this happen before. I was very nervous to this whole process, I couldn't even finish my meal. I began immediately googling all the what ifs when I came across one of Mr. Watts videos, the next morning I made the call that changed everything for me. When the call was over I had a huge feeling of relief. Mr. Watts and his team are second to none.. Best in the State. They always kept me updated on my case and the process, I had no more worries. A few weeks later my case was dismissed with prejudice.. Thank you Mr. Watts and team for all your help.
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Response from John Watts November 18, 2021
Brandon, we greatly enjoyed representing you! Thank you for leaving us feedback. It is very stressful to be sued and you did the right thing to look into your options and take action. So many folks won't take action. You had a great outcome as you did not give up but instead fought back. Thank you for letting us help you and we appreciate your kind review! John Watts
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Cost

Rates
  • Contingency 33%-50%

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.9 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Owner
  • Watts & Herring, LLC
  • 2011 - Present
  • Owner
  • Watts Law Group, PC
  • 2006 - 2011
  • Attorney
  • Yearout & Traylor, PC
  • 1995 - 2006

Education

  • Samford University, Cumberland School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1995
  • Indiana University-Northwest
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1992

Legal Cases

  • Hope v. BSI Financial
  • Motion to dismiss was denied. 2012 WL 5379177
  • Carter v. Medicredit, Inc.
  • Attorney fees awarded at $375 per hour. 2012 WL 4329294

Associations

  • National Association of Consumer Advocates
  • Member
  • 2006 - Present
  • Alabama State Bar Association
  • Member
  • 1995 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Peer Review Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • Preeminent 5.0 out of 5
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2018
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2010
  • AV Rated
  • Martindale-Hubbell
  • 2004
  • Moot Court Board
  • Cumberland School of Law
  • 1993
  • Law Review
  • Cumberland School of Law
  • 1993
View all awards

Publications

  • Jones School of Law Alumni -- "The Jones Brief"
  • Untapped Revenue Source for the Solo Practioner: The Fair Credit Reporting Act
  • 2006

Speaking Engagements

  • Successful Practice Seminar
  • Using Social Media In Marketing A Law Practice And In Litigation
  • 2009
  • Preventing Identity Theft
  • Preventing Identity Theft
  • 2009
  • Jones School of Law Alumni Meeting
  • Understanding the Fair Debt Collection Practices Act
  • 2009
  • Collections Law Seminar
  • Credit Reporting By Debt Collectors and Defending Debt Collection Suits
  • 2008
  • ABICLE Collections Law
  • Credit Reporting By Debt Collectors
  • 2008
  • Webinar
  • TCPA Class Actions: Phone, Text and Fax Solicitation Claims on the Rise
  • N/A
View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (26)
Given (27)
Endorse John
Foreclosure Attorney | Mar 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known John Watts for several years, and through that time, I have come to know John as an attorney of integrity who will fight for his client's rights. In light of the current economic crisis, John has studied issues related to wrongful foreclosures and other foreclosure issues, and as a result, he has been able to help his clients prevent abusive practices from financial institutions. In addition, John has helped clients recover compensation as a result of abusive debt collectors. If you need an attorney to protect your consumer rights, I highly recommend John."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known John and he is very well respected and does top quality work in protecting and assisting consumers with financial and debt issues. In the past I have had issues with clients relating to credit card debt and John was the lawyer I turned to, to get advice and direction. He is truly the top in this field of law."
Consumer protection Attorney | Dec 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is one of the best consumer lawyers in Alabama."
Consumer protection Attorney | Apr 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Though I don't know John personally, when I first stepped into private practice, I had hundreds of questions. I shot him an email, and this man took a good chunk of time out of one of his otherwise busy days to sit and chat with me, in detail about best practices in this field. I can count on one hand the folks who looked out for me when I started practicing, and of those, the majority were folks that I knew prior to practicing law. John helped me when he didn't even know me. He's a great benefit to our profession."
Personal injury Attorney | Feb 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I have known John for years. He is a fantastic advocate for the injured. He will take the time to explain all options to his clients without all the legalese that some lawyers throw around. John offers a lot of information on his website and you can learn a lot about your problem by watching his videos. Plus he is one of the nicest guys you will ever meet."
Consumer protection Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John is a very experienced and knowledgable lawyer who I have known for many years. Importantly, he'll tell you whether or not you really need an attorney and he'll explain things in a way that makes sense. John has a ton of great information at his website. I'd highly recommend that you reach out to him if you need a lawyer"
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Truly exceptional and professional attorney with an outstanding reputation in the legal field for providing high quality representation and results for his clients! I highly endorse John"
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"John Watts is the attorney we send out any consumer protection cases to. Whether it creditors violating the law or mortgage companies that wrongfully foreclose on people's homes, John is the person you want on your side."
Elder law Attorney | May 28
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I've known John for 20 years. Over the years, we've handled many cases together. He's one of the finest lawyers I've ever worked with. He is knowledgeable about the law, kind to his clients and gives great advice."
Personal injury Attorney | Jun 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse John. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | May 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. It is clear by reading the answers in the AVVO community that this lawyer is a top notch attorney who is highly respected in the legal community."
Debt settlement Attorney | Jan 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is one of the "go to" lawyers for consumers who are the victims of identity theft or abusive collection practices."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch lawyer. Highly respected in the legal community."
Elder law Attorney | Apr 22
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Griffin Watts is the kind of lawyer we all aspire to be & I am honored to have the opportunity to offer him my endorsement"
Elder law Attorney | Mar 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is very knowledgeable and takes and puts his client's interests first."
Debt collection Attorney | Feb 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"John Watts is a top notch lawyer. He is smart, compassionate, precise, and personable. He is able to very quickly decipher legal situations and boil them down to very basic elelments and find solutions. He takes great care of his clients and is universally well-liked and respected."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. John is a very knowledgeable attorney in the field of Consumer Protection and Fair Debt Collection. He does a fine job for his clients and obtains favorable results with the courts. I have referred many clients to him and would do so again in the future."
Debt settlement Attorney | Feb 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Elder law Attorney | Dec 10
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"I have known John for quite some time now and have worked with him with mutual clients and on other joint projects. I've always found him to possess the perfect blend of legal talent, experience and creativity. His clients love him and trust his judgment. In fact, they're not just clients — they are raving fans. But that's to be expected when you have a lawyer like John on your side. John speaks to his clients in plain English. No legal jargon here. I've also been impressed with the respect he displays toward his clients, by keeping them regularly informed of the progress of their case, by returning their phone calls promptly, and by always dealing with them as true equals. The confidence he inspires in everyone who works with him makes John just the sort of lawyer you hope yours will be. They just don't come any better than John."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 06
Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter
"Having represented several major credit card companies, I have mixed feelings about seeing Mr. Watts' name appear on the other side of one of my cases. On the one hand, I know I better have an airtight and thoroughly prepared case to have any chance of getting a verdict against his client. On the other, I know I'll be treated courteously and with the utmost respect."
View more endorsements
Personal injury
Personal injury
Car accident
Personal injury
Bankruptcy and debt
Debt collection
Car accident
Chapter 7 bankruptcy
Personal injury
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Estate planning
Personal injury
Bankruptcy and debt
Bankruptcy and debt
Personal injury
Class action