I researched bankruptcy attorneys on the web that were part of my prepaid leagal plan. I saw that the Baumer Law Firm had a great reputation online, so I gave them a try. Let me preface my first meeting; I was at the end of my rope financially, I was embarassed about my financial situation as I mad...e decent money, yet through poor decisions and a divorce all of my money went to bills, which included several credit cards with high interest rates. Anything left over went to necessities...if the kids needed clothes or shoes, something would go unpaid, at which time the bill collectors would start calling, and wouldn't quit. Then, of course, there was the IRS who I owed $19,000.00. I was literally ill. I walked into Mr. Baumers office and was greeted by a representative that was very kind (sincerely so) and within minutes I was meeting with Michael Baumer. The meeting was great, there was no judgement, only advice, options, and most importantly professional reassurance that the firm could help me. Michael was honest, he told me the process for a Chapter 13 was years long, but that once in force, the Chapter 13 would foster a manageable financial life. I walked out of the office feeling better than I had felt in a LONG time. Everything went exactly as Michael said, and acording to plan. As I said, Michael was honest, he told me that I would be paying a long time, and I did! From September 2007 until June 2011. But you know what? It is over, for the first time in over a decade I do NOT owe the IRS, and although my debt has been manageable since the Chapter 13, since I am finished with it, I just received a huge wage by virtue of keeping the money I was paying to the 13. Also, in the event of an emergency there are ways to have money refunded to you and an extension placed on your Chapt 13, but ONLY in extreme cases. I wished I had always managed my money and never needed to file bankruptcy, but that isn't how my life went, as such; I am very thankful to Michael Baumer and his staff, especially Renee P. (Chapt 13 specialist) for their help and their patience with me. I'm not always the brightest guy in the world, and at times I would call them more than once needing information about a topic they had already explained to me, they assisted me with emergencies, and were ALWAYS professional, courteous, accepting and genuinely kind. They didn't make false promises and were always honest. If I had to describe Michael Baumers practice in two words, the words would be professionalism and integrity. Michaels sister is also an attorney (I think her name is Meghan? I apologize if I got the name wrong or misspelled) She too is awesome, she represented me at one of the hearings.

Filing for personal bankruptcy is a very scary situation for anyone. I have been going through a divorce for 3 years and my ex-wife filed for bankruptcy without my knowledge. Upon hearing from her creditors I turned to Michael for advice. Michael is professional, knowlegible and straight forward w...ith his approach to personal bankruptcy. He made the process as painless as possible and in no way placed any judgement on me regarding my situation. I was embarassed that my situation got away from me, but Michael was a calming voice during this distressful time. All my questions were answered, all my calls were returned, and all my meetings were efficient and on my terms. Michael did not rush me, he answered all my questions and made suggestions I would never have thought of regarding bankruptcy. 6 months after my discharge, Michael and his staff was there to answer lingering questions. They did not forget who I was, even after my case was discharged. They saved me an additional $4,000 by answering a simple question. If you are thinking of filing for Bankruptcy call Michael and his staff. You will not be disappointed!

I don't make any decisions that will affect my life without doing an extensive amount of research. Michael Baumer was the most knowledgeable and well respected attorney in the Austin area. Not only did I make the correct choice in selecting his law firm, but learned that he has written much of the ba...nkruptcy code. I was extremely pleased with his efficiency, but I felt secure because I was told exactly what to expect, what my obstacles were and how they would combat those for me. Madeline and Melanie did so much work on my case. I gave them basic information they requested and they cultivated it for me & they cultivated it for me. As professional as the staff is, they make you feel like they are trusted friends. I feel very comfortable recommending them to anyone!

I hired Michael Baumer to handle my bankruptcy. He did an adequate job. I did not have his entire fee so I offered to let him hold my fathers Rolex as security. He agreed and I began making payments. When I had $800 left to pay, I called his office to let them know that I had the balance and was ...ready to pick up my watch and pay off my bill. I was ignored and then got a letter from his office telling me that he was keeping the watch for non-payment. I faxed his office copies of paid receipts and asked him to reconsider. He would not and has completely ignored me. Now I've paid him $1,700.00 plus a Rolex worth $3,000.00. That was my experience with this guy. To get this review published I have to refrain from using the language that would go more to the point of what I think of him. There are plenty of lawyers, why take a chance with one you can't trust.