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Dorothy G Bunce

also known as A Fresh Start Law, 702-456-1920
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Avvo Rating9.4
  • Las Vegas, NV
  • Licensed for 41 years
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About Dorothy

Anyone of us can face tough times, and if you need legal help, you may want to find someone who can relate to your problems and won't judge.

I understand what it is like to have financial problems, since my husband is disabled and hasn't been able to work for the past 10 years.

I am the mother to 4 wild & crazy Papillon dogs, Oreo, the Daddy, & his 2 puppies, Alfie (the Alpha Male) and Brownie, the hoodlum, who has to wear a hoodie because she lost her fur coat to thyroid disease.  Unfotunately, Gigi, the Mommy, died this past summer from a disease that destroyed her platelets.  We recently took Cody into our home from a local breeder, and as the baby, he has allowed Alfie to form his own pack.

I moved to Las Vegas from Reno in 1993 and have been in private practice handing consumer debt problems with A Fresh Start since 1999.  I handled my first Bankruptcy case in Reno back in 1979.

In 2007, I realized that I was digging my own grave with a fork, leaving me with diabetes, hypertension & high cholesterol.  So I had weight loss surgery & have lost more than 100 lbs.  I now work out at the gym every chance I get (so if I don't answer the phone, I may be down the block at the Athletic Club 8 blocks away from the office). 

But I do return all my phone messages & seldom stay at the gym for more than 30 minutes.  So if you get my voice mail or if my assistant tells you I am out of the office, please leave me your phone number.

 And for my existing clients - please leave me your phone number!  Although I have your number at the office, if I am over at the courthouse & get a message from you, I will not be able to return your call unless you give me the number!

Practice areas

Chapter 13 bankruptcyDebt settlementChapter 7 bankruptcy
  1. Chapter 7 bankruptcy: 65%

    Chapter 7 Planning, Means Test deductions & planning, anticipating assets that Trustee may seize, credit repair & rebuilding after Bankruptcy.

    39 years, 7,700 cases

  2. Debt settlement: 25%

    Removing liens and negotiating settlement of credit card and other debts, INCLUDING restructuring payment of STUDENT LOANS outside of bankruptcy.

    11 years, 1,200 cases

  3. Chapter 13 bankruptcy: 10%

    Chapter 13 Planning, Means Test Deductions & planning, resolving IRS & other non-dischargable debts with Chapter 13.

    23 years, 1,800 cases

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

2805621 1292949639

2805621 1547767805

2805621 1547768138

Contact

2037 Franklin Ave
address map

2037 Franklin Ave
Las Vegas, NV, 89104

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
NVActive197802/23/2013
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers28160
Legal guides88
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
Bankruptcy Attorney of the YearConsumer Business Review2016
Client RatingMartindale-Hubbell2015
Top Lawyers in Southern NevadaVegas Inc.2014
Top Lawer in Southern NevadaVegas Inc2012
2011 Bankruptcy Attorney of the YearConsumer Business Review2011
2010 Bankruptcy Attorney of the YearConsumer Business Review2010
First 100 Women Admitted to Practice Law in NevadaAmerican Bar Association1996
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
AttorneyA Fresh Start1997 - Present
ResearcherNevada Attorney for Injured Worker1993 - 1996
AttorneyLaw Office of Dorothy Bunce1978 - 1991
Trust AgentNevada National Bank1978 - 1978
Legal InternPeoples National Bank1977 - 1978
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Southern Nevada Association of Bankruptcy AttorneysMember1999 - Present
United States Bankruptcy Court, District of NevadaMember1979 - Present
State Bar of NevadaMember1978 - Present
Lawyers Concerned for LawyersTreasurer1998 - 2002
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
SelfThe 5 Things You Must Never Do if You Want to File Bankruptcy2010
SelfGuide to Chapter 7 Bankrupcy1999
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
Sacramento Valley Bankruptcy ForumCLE2011
Sacramento Valley Bankruptcy ForumCLE2009
Sacramento Valley Bankruptcy ForumCLE2008
Sacramento Valley Bankruptcy ForumCLE2007
University of Puget Sound School of LawJD - Juris Doctor1978
University of Missouri, Kansas CityBA - Bachelor of Arts1975
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
The Don of the LawCredit Repair2011
Interview - Wakeup With the WagnersLienstripping - Removing Second Mortgages2009
In Business Las VegasLienstripping2008
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Eliminating Tax Debt of $450,062.43 for $920!Eliminated over $449,000 in IRS debt! Whoo Hoo!

Reviews

(81)
5 Star
99%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
1%
Review Dorothy Bunce

RN

Posted by

I had medical bills, and no insurance, not a way I wanted to go, but Dorothy made my life livable, and she's a smart chick!!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: Was happy to have you as a client, and hope you enjoy your fresh start.

Experienced and Knowledgeable

Posted by

Ms Dorothy has helped me on my Bankruptcy ordeal. She's very knowledgeable and got many years of experienced. She's responsive and honest if you have some question or inquiry.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

You get what you pay for!

Posted by

There are a lot of people out there looking for a cheap way to file bankruptcy. Do it yourselfers, bankruptcy attorney mills (a lot like puppy mills) that just move you through and don’t really care, or predatory attorneys that try to force you into and expensive chapter 13 because they either A: don’t know the law or B: want to make more money. Dorothy cares! No questions asked! Like many people, I was scared... however she walked me through it, put up with my annoying hypotheticals through the process and tolerated me until the end. My case wasn’t simple, but she handled it with unswerving ability! Highly recommended for people who are serious about a new lease on life and DO WHAT YOUR ATTORNEY TELLS YOU TO! Don’t be late with paperwork, meetings, bank statements...etc. She will put your needs and fears above everything else. If you want the HANDS DOWN BEST REPRESENTATION IN YOUR BANKRUPTCY CASE......HIRE DOROTHY BUNCE!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: BB, thanks for this kind review! I wish I could have waved my magic wand to prevent you from worrying but that would have destroyed who you are. I am glad to have turned you into a believer.

Perfect and professional

Posted by

From the first time we met Dorothy she put us at ease - not a "stuffed shirt" attorney - Dorothy is down to earth and speaks in "real time" language that was easily understood. Would highly recommend her and we are so appreciative of everything she did for us.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: Thanks, Wayne for your kind words. You & your Wife are the reason I enjoy working in the bankruptcy field. It has been a pleasure to have been able to help you both.

Dorothy G. Bunce review

Posted by

We hired Dorothy for our chapter 7 BK. We were very nervous and worried. She was awesome and pretty much held our hands through the entire process. I was so nervous for the creditor meeting but she calmed me down and made it painless. I am so happy to have worked with Dorothy. Thank you so much Dorothy. We appreciate you.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: It was a pleasure working with both of you too. I hope you will work on the credit rebuilding program so you can be proud of your good name.

Dorothy was with me every step of the way.

Posted by

I retained Dorothy as my Lawyer, for my Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Boy, am I glad that I did. One of the wisest things I could have ever done. She made sure that I didn´t become overwhelmed, or misguided during the entire process and went above and beyond to ensure I would get a ¨fresh start¨. She literally wiped out 95% of my debt, and this included debt that many Lawyers that I spoke with- prior to finding Dorothy, wouldn't touch. Not Dorothy, she really knows her stuff, and will fight for you. I was so nervous, and also ashamed of my financial situation, but she put all that to rest. The day of court, I was nervous, but prepared. She made sure that I knew what to expect every step of the way. There was not one question that was presented to me in court, that I could not accurately answer because of her guidance, and her knowledge. Thanks, Dorothy! You truly gave me a fresh start.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: Jennifer, I was so relieved you weren't a member of that feminist terrorist group portrayed on tv - LOL! My pleasure and privilege to work with you. Wish I could say "come back soon!"

Caring Lawyer!

Posted by

Dorothy has been very supportive and caring throughout the entire nerve recking bankruptcy process. She is thorough in her explanations and empathetic. It has now been seven years since I went through the process and she is still willing to answer questions. She is also very quick in her responses. I will and have recommended Dorothy to any family member or friends. Thank you Dorothy for your continuous support!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Posted by

Dorothy helped me navigate the process of Chapter 7. I was able to file without my husband, as it was my debt. She also worked with me to ensure we met the means test. There were no issues at the hearing and I am happy to recommend her to anyone.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: Thanks so much for sharing your experience. I will let you know how your case progresses.

Very satisfied client

Posted by

Dorothy Bunce is a wonderful and very knowledgeable lawyer. Always on top of her job and keeps you updated on your case. Highly recommended if you ever need a bankruptcy lawyer.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
Dorothy Bunce's response: Thanks Ms Cora!

Experience Counts!

Posted by

When it comes to medical and legal issues, experience counts. I arrived at my 341 creditors meeting very early and saw nearly a dozen meetings with the court trustee. During nearly every one the trustee chastised the bankruptcy filer’s attorney for errors or omissions. When Ms. Bunce and I walked up to the table for my meeting, the trustee knows that Ms. Bunce is the most experienced, most knowledgeable, most professional attorney he would be dealing with all day. My meeting was short, fast, and painless. I firmly believe it was because of Ms. Bunce’s known competency and history. Experience counts! I wanted an attorney that knows and has seen everything. Based on my research the choice was obvious and I am so glad that I had Ms. Bunce representing me during this difficult time.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(342)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Robert Taylor, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Feb 17, 2011
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

There are few lawyers as knowledgeable as Dorothy. She is the only lawyer I would recommend in Nevada. Her knowledge is only surpassed by her compassion and willingness to share advice without expecting something in return. She's a great person as well as a great lawyer.

Anerio Altman, Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney on Mar 7, 2011
Relationship: Other

Dorothy has her act together. Check her out on Avvo! She answers everything.

Steven Perrigo, Social security Attorney on May 22, 2020
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer based on her thorough and knowledgeable answers on this forum.

Lois Upton, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Oct 3, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse Dorothy Bunce. She is highly experienced and passionate about representing her clients diligently. She is also very personable, and fun to be around, and willing to go the extra mile.

Leon Bayer, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on May 31, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Vincent Mayr, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on May 9, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ms. Bunce is extremely knowledgeable. If you have a complicated legal bankruptcy issue in Nevada, she is suited to resolve it. I endorse this lawyer.

Rahul Aggarwal, Real estate Attorney on Mar 7, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services.

Scottie Leming, Family Attorney on Mar 1, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this attorney, who provides so generously to the AVVO community and gives sound legal advice.

Dmitry Balannik

I endorse this lawyer.

Shari Vannieuwenhoven, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Nov 8, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Dorothy has a wealth of knowledge and takes time out of her day to help those who need legal assistance.

Christine Thurston, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Aug 16, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I confidently endorse this lawyer’s work and standing in the legal community.

Oscar Ramirez, Employment and labor Attorney on Jun 19, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ms. Bunce is professional, bright and finds creative solutions to complex legal problems. I endorse this lawyer.

Amber Alas, Divorce and separation Attorney on Jun 13, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Bunce is extremely knowledgable attorney. She gives freely of her time to answer questions on avvo and does so with expertise. The community is lucky to have her.

Thomas Kelly, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on May 27, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mrs. Bunce is highly experienced and knowledgeable in his field, and is a regular contributor to Avvo and dedicates a significant amount of his limited time to helping people answer questions in this area.

Zaheer Shah, Personal injury Attorney on May 23, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ms. Bunce is an attorney who exhibits an understanding of legal advocacy that truly sets her apart. Her answers on Avvo are thoughtful, relevant, and compassionate. I enthusiastically endorse this lawyer.

David Phillips, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on May 17, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

It is with the greatest of pleasure that I highly endorse Dorothy. Not that she needs my endorsement as she is truly the leader of our AVVO online Q and A . Dorothy has literaly given years and hundreds of hours of her time in answering questions for persons she will never meet nor receive a fee. Dorothy is just as quick to advise someone not to file bankruptcy and look at other options when it would be so easy to make bankruptcy the answer to all problems on the bankruptcy q&a. She looks at persons as individuals and not case numbers and offers real empathy for the client. She understands what our clients are facing as her bio clearly states. If you live in the Vegas area it will not be a gamble to see Dorthy for your debt and lien issues. She is a fantastic lawyer and I consider her a great online friend. To quote Dorothy, "Hope this perspective helps! "

Peter Morgan, Business Attorney on May 6, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Dorothy tells it like it is. Good advice with good humor.

Fiza Syed, Divorce and separation Attorney on Apr 26, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer.

Gary Anderson, Mesothelioma and asbestos Attorney on Apr 11, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Dorothy Bunce is a fantastic attorney whose client-focused approach ensures excellent outcomes in her cases.

David Kelly, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Mar 25, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I endorse this lawyer. Las Vegas may seem like a long way from my home state of Minnesota, but bankruptcy is a creature of federal law and is quite similar from state to state. Both Ms. Bunce and I are prolific writers of answers on the AVVO legal questions forum. When I answer a question, more than likely she has already answered before I did. I read her answers carefully, and often learn something of value. She is very informed, very experienced and very wise.

Walter Hnot,, Social security Attorney on Mar 22, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Dorothy is an excellent attorney committed to providing the highest quality representation to clients. I endorse this attorney without reservation.

Channika Desilva, Mesothelioma and asbestos Attorney on Feb 22, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

I highly endorse this lawyer. Dorothy is a highly skilled and well-known attorney in the legal community for her outstanding professionalism and work ethic. I highly recommend this lawyer to anyone who needs quality legal representation.