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Diane L Drain

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Avvo Rating10
  • Phoenix, AZ
  • Licensed for 35 years
  • Free consultation
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Diane L Drain
Diane L Drain
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About Diane

QUALITY SERVICE TO OUR CLIENTS IS OUR TOP PRIORITY "Let Us Help You Get Your Life Back On Track"

Our firm was founded in 1990 by Diane L. Drain, counselor and attorney at law.  Ms. Drain has received an AV rating by Martindale-Hubbell as "exemplary reputation and well-established practice".  This AV rating is the highest rating for an attorney and shows that Ms. Drain has reached the height of professional excellence. She is recognized for the highest levels of skill and integrity. Her clients have included commercial mortgage lenders, national banks and professionals such as lawyers and brokers.  But her greatest rewards come from helping individuals who are experiencing financial difficulties.  Since 1985 Ms. Drain has worked as a lawyer at a large firm and now her own firm.  Prior to law school Ms. Drain worked for 15 years as a paralegal, legal secretary and law office administrator.

She appears regularly before the United States Bankruptcy Court.  She is a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, along with several other professional organizations. Diane is a retired law professor (teaching bankruptcy) and is a strong and practical advocate for her clients and well respected in the legal community.  For almost 20 years Diane was a member of the Board of Governor's for the State Bar of Arizona.  As such she has a responsibility to both the practicing lawyers and the citizens of our State.  Diane took those duties very seriously; so much so that one friend referred to her as a "cowboy".

This firm is dedicated to a client-centered approach to the practice of law.  Our mission is to explain the intricacies of law in plain, understandable English. We will never tell you what we think you want to hear, only what the realities are of your situation. Nor, do we look for reasons why we can't do something.  Instead, we try to find appropriate ways to help.  Our interpretation of the law is conservative.  Therefore, our clients are usually prepared for most situations.  More importantly, we try to help you plan for the future, not just address your current legal issues. 
 
Your satisfaction is our goal.  Legal proceedings are difficult enough, so we do our best to help you understand the process and keep you informed as to the status of your case.

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Practice areas

ForeclosureChapter 7 bankruptcyChapter 13 bankruptcyBankruptcy and debt
  1. Bankruptcy and debt: 30%

    Bankruptcy is very scary and complicated. The process appears easy if you do it right. Do it wrong and you will suffer. Our job is to help you do it right. We focus on education about your options; how to protect your assets, prepare for the future and get your constitutionally guaranteed "fresh start". We promise to treat you with compassion and respect. We promise to help you through each step. We promise to make this process as simple as reasonably possible. References available.

    35 years, 1,250 cases

  2. Chapter 13 bankruptcy: 30%

    Chapter 13 bankruptcy cases are very complex, even for the "simple" ones. Chapter 13 work is very unique and most general bankruptcy attorneys do not know who to complete a 13. The problem is that client's personal situation changes, income changes or their goals change. A good chapter 13 attorney must anticipate these changes and be willing to help a client throughout the entire 3 to 5 year process. In Arizona less than 2% of chapter 13 debtors are successful if they try this on their own.

    35 years, 50 cases

  3. Chapter 7 bankruptcy: 30%

    I am both a lawyer and law professor. I am focused on education and preparation. I insist that my clients be actively involved in their bankruptcy. A good bankruptcy takes many hours of planning' somewhat like a great vacation. It is important to customize every bankruptcy to the unique issues of the particular client. A bankruptcy cannot be mass produced. Each must be done by educating the debtor, both pre-bankruptcy & post-bankruptcy planning. I promise to treat you with dignity and respect.

    35 years, 1,200 cases

  4. Foreclosure: 10%

    We have completed over 4000 trustee sales. Therefore, can use that experience to help you fight to save your home.

    35 years, 4,000 cases

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

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Contact

Law Office Of D.L. Drain, P.A.

2375 East Camelback Rd
Suite 600
Phoenix, AZ, 85016

Website
https://www.dianedrain.com 

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
AZActive 198505/30/2021
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers1582
Legal guides2
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Highest Rating Possible for Legal Ability & Ethical StandardLawyers.com2019
Judicial Edition - AV PreeminentMartindale-Hubbell2019
Client Gold Champion AwardMartindale-Hubbell2019
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2019
Excellent in Client SolutionsUSITC2018
Client Choice AwardAVVO2018
Top ContributorAVVO2018
AV Preeminent RatedMartindale-Hubbell2018
AV Preeminent Peer Review RatingMartindale-Hubbell2017
Maricopa County AWLA Ruth V. McGregor AwardArizona Women Lawyers Association2016
AV Preeminent Peer Review RatingMartindale-Hubbell2016
AV Preeminent Peer Review RatingMartindale-Hubbell2015
AV Preeminent - Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2014
Lifetime Achievement Pro Bono AwardJudge Daniel Collins presents on behalf of the AZ Bankruptcy Section and the AZ Bankruptcy Court2014
Bar Register of Preeminent LawyersMartindale-Hubbell2014
Top Attorneys in the ValleyNorth Valley Magazine2012
Bar Register of Preeminent Women LawyersMartindale-Hubbell2012
AV Preeminent - Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2012
Bar Register of Preeminent Women LawyersMartindale-Hubbell2011
AV Preeminent - Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2011
Top 50 Pro Bono Attorneys in Arizona for 2011Arizona Foundation of Legal Services2011
AV Preeminent - Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2010
AV Preeminent - Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2009
Governor's Commission on Service and VolunteerGovernor of Arizona2009
AV ratingMartindale-Hubbell2008
Arizona State Bar President’s AwardState Bar of Arizona2006
Supreme Court's Commission on TechnologyState Bar of Arizona2000
Cover of the Arizona Attorney magazineState Bar of Arizona1999
Arizona State Bar Member of the Year AwardState Bar of Arizona1996
Profile section of the Arizona Business GazetteArizona Business Gazette1996
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
OwnerLaw Office of D.L. Drain, P.A.1991 - Present
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Arizona Consumer Bankruptcy CounselFounding Co-Chair2006 - Present
Arizona Women Lawyers AssociationPresident - Maricopa Chapter 19981990 - Present
Arizona Summit Law School, fka Phoenix School of LawAdjunct law professor2008 - 2017
National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy AttorneysMember2004 - 2018
State Bar of ArizonaBoard of Governors1998 - 2017
Bankruptcy Section of the State Bar of ArizonaMember and Board of Governor's liason1989 - 2017
Arizona School of Real Estateinstructor1988 - 2017
Arizona Trustee's Associationfounding chairperson1986 - 2018
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Helping You Get Your Life Back on TrackNumerous blogs on topics for every consumer2019
contributing author, 2012 ed, Published by Aspatore Books, a Thomson Reuters businessBest Practices for Filing Chapter 132012
Contributing author, Commission on Women in the Profession, ABA publicationThe Road to Independence2011
Law Office of D.L. Drain, web siteArizona Exemptions2010
Law Office of D.L. Drain, web siteHow to Handle Harassing Creditors & Collection Companies2010
State Bar of ArizonaTrustee sales and bankruptcy2009
Law Office of D.L. Drain, web siteWhat Can a Creditor Do When a Chapter 7 or 13 Bankruptcy Is Filed?2009
Law Office of D.L. Drain, web siteBankruptcy Basics2009
Law Office of D.L. Drain, web siteBankruptcy Articles for Consumers and Debtors2008
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
University of ArizonaJuris Doctorate - Law1985
Arizona State UniversityBA/BS1982
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
State Bar of Arizona ConventionBig World, Small Firm: Future Challenges for Small Firm Lawyers to Embrace2014
law school classLaw Office Administration2014
law school classConsumer Bankruptcy Practice2014
CLE programBankruptcy and divorce or separation2014
Phoenix School of LawConsumer Bankruptcy2012
Monthly classesBankruptcy2012
fall sessionConsumer Bankruptcy2012
consumer chapter 7 and 13Chapter 7 and 13 seminar2012
Arizona State Bar CLE program100 Things all Lawyers Should Know2012
adjunct law professorConsumer Bankrupty2012
Nuts and Bolts of Bankruptcy LawBankruptcy2010
Law Office Management for Solos and Small FirmsOffice management for lawyers2010
Bankruptcy 101 - series of classes for lawyers, realtors & title officersBankruptcy, short sales, trustee's sales, deficiency, tax issues2010
BankruptcyBankruptcy2010

Reviews

(91)
5 Star
97%
4 Star
1%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
2%
Review Diane Drain

Highly Recommend

Posted by

Diane and Jay were not only very knowledgeable and patient, but they took time to educate me and point me to the resources I needed. They understood how difficult this process is and made me feel supported. I am forever grateful to have found and worked with them!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: We might offer guidance, but you are the one who used that advice to help yourself. Jay and I thank you for your willingness to 'work the problem in order to find a solution'. You have been a delight to get to know. Our wish for you is a wonderful future. Remember we are always here if you have any questions. Happy holidays and New Year.

Thank you Diane and Jay!

Posted by

Diane is a great attorney that made our BK experience as smooth as possible. Before seeing Diane, we went to another attorney who told us that he couldn't get us a Ch.7 and our only option was a 13 and that is when we found Diane Drain. The entire process starting with the free phone consultation to a couple meetings in the office got us the Ch. 7 we needed. Diane communicates well through the entire process by phone and detailed emails. She explains everything that needs to be done. If you do your part and put in the work to make sure everything is accurate, then she will do hers and you will have great results. Thank you Diane and Jay for everything. We appreciate it. C&P.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: Thank you so much for your wonderful review. You captured exactly what others need to know - "if you do your part and put in the work to make sure everything is accurate," then I will do my part and "you will have great results". Our thanks to both of you, because you have been wonderful to work with and we know you will have a great future. Feel free to call if you have any questions.

Five Stars is Not Enough

Posted by

It would be difficult to fully describe how effective and talented Diane is. She took my exceptionally (some would say ridiculously) complex case and made sense of it. I'd had a very negative experience with my former counsel and from Day One the difference of working with her and Jay was like night and day. There's a reason she is so well regarded and respected in the field and you couldn't make a better selection for your representation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: Todd - You have been a fabulous client. Even though you did not have to, you endured, and continue to endure, suing your prior attorney and filing a bar complaint. I would have been happy to help you fix, and finally close out, your existing bankruptcy, but you felt it important to hold your prior attorney accountable. Thank you for taking your time to look out for others who don't know the problems this attorney suffers on his clients every day. My best to you. Stay healthy and safe.

Highly Recommended - Excellent bankruptcy attorney

Posted by

My elderly parents were experiencing financial difficulty due to dealings with an unscrupulous timeshare company. Their only option was to file bankruptcy. While searching for a bankruptcy attorney, we came across the law office of Diane Drain who had excellent reviews. From our initial consultation, we were impressed by Diane's legal knowledge and compassionate nature. Although the process was difficult and time-consuming, the communication, help, and support we received from Diane and her legal assistant, Jay, was exceptional. They provided us with clear explanations on what to expect during each step of the bankruptcy process so there weren't any surprises. If you're considering filing bankruptcy and need an experienced, knowledgeable, and compassionate attorney, we highly recommend Diane Drain. She and Jay are wonderful to work with!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: Christina - you and your parents were a delight to work with. Your parents are blessed to have you in their lives and willing to help them through this rather complicated process. Give them a big hug for me.

Always There With Helpful Guidance

Posted by

I messed up and continued paying on one credit card that was discharged during my bankruptcy. When I discovered this I had already paid them about $1200 and was anxious to be reimbursed. Diane wrote the credit card company for me, requesting a full refund, which I just received. I would not have gotten my refund had Diane not intervened and requested it.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: Bankruptcy is very complicated so don't be angry at yourself. I am happy that I could help you get a refund of the monies. Thank you for asking us to help you find a fresh start. Stay safe, my best, Diane

Excellent bankruptcy attorney

Posted by

As you can imagine, filing for bankruptcy can be stressful. Finding the right attorney can add to this stress. Working with Diane and Jay to guide me through this difficult process was the best decision I could have made. They are professional and kind, and a true pleasure to work with. I will never forget how much they helped me get my life back.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: I wish I could review my clients because you, along with so many others, have made it easy for us to help. Please stay in touch and let us know how your life is going. Remember, we are always here if you have any questions. Our best, Diane and Jay

Best decision we made!

Posted by

It has been four years since we hired Diane to help us through the difficult decision to go through bankruptcy. Six years ago I found myself without a job and an inability to keep up with all of our debts. In the search for a lawyer, we found Diane. If you find yourself in the situation where you have to go through bankruptcy proceedings, there is no better persons that Diane and Jay. She treated us as if we were her only clients. She asked the hard questions and showed us what we needed to do on our part. She never once judged us or our circumstances. The one thing that sets her apart in my mind, is that she encourages you to move forward; that bankruptcy is not the end and you can use the lessons learned from this challenge to do better. She gifted us a Dave Ramsey book, Starting Over. Since then, we embarked on a journey of becoming debt free and paying off the remaining debts. Now more than five years later, we will finish paying off our last remaining debt this month. No one wants to go through bankruptcy. But if you do find yourself in that position, it's not the end of the world. If you need someone to help you get through the bankruptcy process, choose Diane. She won't let you down.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: I could not be more proud of both of you. You asked for help, listened to advice, and set goals for yourself leading toward financial stability. The lessons you learned will be shared with others, so you will make a difference in their lives. No one decides to have financial challenges; they happen as part of life. How you handle those challenges is a testimony to what your future will look like. Again, I am so proud of you both. Please stay in touch. Our best, Diane and Jay.

Diane and Jay are the BEST!!

Posted by

My husband and I wanted to begin the process of starting our bankruptcy, but it’s really scary not knowing who you can trust and who would step up to bat for you. Diane and Jay really did that, if felt like we had some friends who cared about us and took their time to walk us through each step with compassion and no judgment what so ever! I would refer them to any and all of my closest family and friends if they were in need of a bankruptcy! Thank you both for taking care of us and taking the time!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: Thank you for your very kind words, but Jay and I really want to thank you. It was a real delight to meet you and to work with both of you. Not only because you are really nice people, but also because you were committed to helping us help you. Based on how you worked with us I know your family will thrive and go on to be your very best. Please stay in touch and let us know how you are doing. Our best, Diane and Jay.

Good Advice

Posted by

I didn't actually speak with her but we did message and she was very helpful in her answers. I am deciding whether to go ahead and hire her or make an appoint for consultation, but I have to make sure I financially can afford her services if I so decide.
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
Consulted attorney
Diane Drain's response: Vicki - my first consultation is free and focused on your unique situation and what options are available to you. As a retired law professor, my commitment is to helping people, like you, to understand their rights and obligations. I look forward to having that free consultation.

Highly recommended

Posted by

One and a half years ago, after a series of physical problems, I finally admitted to myself that I could no longer handle my debt load. I was going under, and knew I would have to consider bankruptcy. I had a high credit score and had always been responsible about paying my debts, so the decision was very hard to make. I was scared to the point of panic attacks and had no idea how to find a lawyer. I went on yelp and read through many reviews. When I saw a picture of Diane, I knew she was the person I wanted to work with. What a great decision that turned out to be! From our first phone conversation, her calmness, empathy, and careful, thorough explanations helped me gain confidence in walking through this complicated process. Her and Jay treated with me with such kindness, patiently answering my many questions and quieting my fears with precise, professional knowledge. This is a difficult experience emotionally, but the process is a series of steps, each one of which you will be guided through. Diane and Jay always answered my calls and e-mails in a timely manner. I am so glad I found Diane. Her warmth and caring and wealth of experience greatly eased the stress of going through this difficult and emotional process. I highly recommend using her services.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Diane Drain's response: Judy - your concerns and fears were not unusual. What you did to help yourself, was to ask questions. The law, like medicine, is complicated and everyone has a unique situation. Asking for advice before taking action, is the best way to educate yourself. So, our thanks to you for being such a hardworking client. We really enjoyed getting to know you. My hope for you is a peaceful future, with lots of time to do whatever makes you happy.
See all reviews

Attorney endorsements

(34)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

James Kahn, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Apr 29, 2010
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I wholeheartedly endorse Ms. Drain as a bankruptcy practitioner. She is, at all times, a conscientious and caring professional. Diane is one of those attorneys to whom I refer clients with total confidence that their legal needs will be well handled, and that the client will receive the personal attention they deserve. I have worked with Diane over the last 20 years, and know her to be very well informed in law generally and specifically in Bankruptcy. She is on top of all current issues and technology. She lectures in law regularly, including as an adjunct professor at Phoenix School of Law. Diane serves on the Board of Governors of the State Bar of Arizona, and has participated in numerous committees and sections of the State Bar and other professional organizations.

Gary Stickell, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Jan 19, 2012
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Diane is a dedicated individual that to gives without measure to her community. It is has been my honor to know Diane for the past ten years. She is committed to the service of individuals in financial straights. To know Diane is to know a caring, committed professional. She has the abilities and the compassion to represent her Clients’ needs. I recommend Diane without reservation.

Richard Coffinger, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 8, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Diane L. Drain, who I've known for over 45 years. She served as an elected members of the Board of Governors of the State Bar of Arizona for more than 15 years. I have referred clients to her in the past and have always always received reports of her excellent reports on her legal advice and professional representation of the clients I have referred to her.

Mae Innabi, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 8, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Diane is a great bankruptcy attorney and I have no hesitation in referring potential clients to her. I know she will represent them with excellence and integrity.

David Glynn, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 8, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Diane without reservation or hesitation! She is as dedicated to her clients as she is to the local legal community and you will not find a more caring or committed professional. Her abilities and compassion are unmatched.

Danielle Graham, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 5, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Diane is incredibly knowledgeable about the bankruptcy process and very personable too.

Robert Brown, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 5, 2019
Relationship: Worked together on matter

I endorse Diane without reservation. She is kind, caring and extremely knowledgeable. She combines years of experience, common sense and great customer service. I would not hesitate to recommend her for my own mother's bankruptcy!

Ellen Lawson, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 5, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Diane Drain for many years. I definitely recommend Diane as a bankruptcy attorney. She is very experienced and knowledgeable of the law and she is devoted to helping her clients.

Harold Campbell, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 5, 2019
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Diane is not only very knowledgeable, but she cares about each of her clients individually, something many bankruptcy lawyers do not do.

Rex Anderson, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Apr 5, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer without hesitation. I have know Diane for several decades, starting in the early 1990’s. We have presented CLE courses together, been opposing counsel, and mutual friends. She shows unequaled integrity, compassion for others, and passion for the law. She is respectful of others including opposing counsel.

David Mercer, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Dec 12, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I had the chance to work under Diane through my law school's clinical program. Diane taught me a great deal about bankruptcy, but she also taught me a lot about how to run an ethical, respectable law practice. She really knows her stuff! Even though I am licensed and running my own practice, she is the first person I would think to call if I ran into a bankruptcy problem and did not know how to handle it myself. I cannot recommend her highly enough!

Eric Ollason, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Oct 27, 2016
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Dian Drain is a great bankruptcy lawyer and a pleasure to work with. The field of bankruptcy is lucky to have her as a lawyer practicing in this area.

Adam Studnicki

Ms. Drain is a very well-respected lawyer and a valuable asset to this community. Her continuing dedication to the law and her clients is admirable. If you are looking for a bankruptcy lawyer, giver her a call.

Leonard Sominsky, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Aug 11, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I have known Diane for many years and she has always been a great attorney who cares about her clients. Diane is knowledgeable, diligent and accessible and I wholeheartedly endorse her as an attorney.

Jennifer Dahlberg, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Jun 11, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Michael Zoldan, Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney on Feb 19, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Ian Hasegawa, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Dec 18, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I first met Diane as one of my professors in law school. She was an excellent instructor. Her reputation and accomplishments speak for themselves, but I will reiterate that Diane is one of the preeminent bankruptcy attorneys in Arizona. As an attorney, I have seen Diane at pro bono events that offer free legal assistance to veterans. She gives so generously of her time to help those who normally could not afford an attorney. I wholeheartedly endorse her!

John O'Brien, Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney on May 30, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. An extremely talented and well respected attorney in the legal community.

Christian Lassen

Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community.

Elizabeth Kamper, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Mar 29, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Diane is an excellent mentor for young bankruptcy lawyers and I have personally benefited greatly from the experience of being one of her mentees. She is a lawyer who cares deeply not only about her clients but about the legal community.

Cindy Greene, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Feb 15, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Judy Zimet, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Feb 8, 2014
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Diane is a leader in the legal community who creates time to advise and mentor other attorneys, thereby raising the level of the profession.

Cost

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    • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs
      30 minutes
    PAYMENT METHODS

    Cash, Check, Credit Card