Mark Markus

Mark Markus

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at Burbank, CA

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The most responsive Attorney I have ever come accross!

I dont know where to start about Mark. I am in the initial stages of my BK and am BEYOND impressed with his Follow up an attention to detail. He responds early in the morning and late at night, usually within 20 minutes of my emails! I have had access to several Attorneys over the years, and NONE have come even remotley close to having his impeccable follow up and response. My case is certainly complex and involves mulitple Tax years, but Mark has very clearly explained my options and given me his advice (Which is invaluable since Im lost on what to do). I was originally going to go with an Orange County firm near my house, but during the consult, the Attorney almost acted like I was bothering him with my questions and was just waiting for the consult to be over. I can see why Mark gets the ratings he does, I am more than satisifed at this point and have FULL CONFIDENCE that I have chosen the right Attorney!

Excellent service

Very satisfied with MJM's service. I had no experience with bankruptcy and he answered a number of my questions up front before I paid retainer, which was a big help in deciding which direction to go. Others would not answer any questions until retainer was paid so you'd have no idea of their knowledge until too late. He was also very quick in replying to my emails where he answered all my questions, which is great when you're going through the stress of a bankruptcy. He was thorough, patient, and diligent. I highly recommend his services.

About Mark

Learn Mark’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Bankruptcy and debt

70%

Representation of primarily debtors (but also creditors) in all Chapters of bankruptcy for individuals and businesses.

32 years
Chapter 11 bankruptcy

10%

Representation of primarily debtors (but also creditors) in all facets of Chapter 11 reorganization cases for individuals and businesses.

32 years
Chapter 13 bankruptcy

10%

Representation of primarily debtors (but also creditors) in all facets of Chapter 13 cases.

32 years
Chapter 7 bankruptcy

10%

Representation of primarily debtors (but also creditors) in all facets of Chapter 7 cases for individuals and businesses.

32 years

"I WISH I HAD COME TO YOU FIRST" IS THE MOST OFTEN HEARD COMMENT FROM MY CLIENTS.

I am a Certified Specialist in bankruptcy law by the State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization and A+ rated by the Better Business Bureau.

I have practiced exclusively bankruptcy law in the Los Angeles area, and throughout California, representing individuals and businesses in Chapters 7, 11, and 13, since 1991.

I pride myself on giving personalized, quality service to all my clients at affordable and competitive prices.

I have offices in Burbank, California and have free initial consultations by phone as well for all clients.

Photos and videos

Licensed for 31 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 1991

Updated 12/06/2022

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

Contact Mark

Law Office of Mark J. Markus

(818) 538-3891 Office

2600 W. OLIVE AVE. 5TH FLOOR

Burbank, CA, 91505

bklaw.com/

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Law Office of Mark J. Markus

(818) 538-3891 Office

355 S. Grand Ave. Suite 2450

Los Angeles, CA, 90071

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Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

24 customer reviews

5 Star

96%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Posted by Mike | July 29, 2015

The most responsive Attorney I have ever come accross!

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Posted by David | November 17, 2015

Excellent service

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Posted by Jamie | January 6, 2023

Look No Further - Work with Mark

If you are reading this review, it’s because you have come to the realization you need a bankruptcy attorney. Look no further. Mark Markus was absolutely the best decision we made during this entire process. In working with Mark over these past 5 years, he has been a true advocate. He is honest and direct; his knowledge of the entire bankruptcy process is second to none. Prior to filing I conducted research, read reviews, followed online bulletin boards, and found a lot of horror stories. None of those worst-case scenarios came up with Mark. Even 3 years in, when we hadn’t been in contact for months, if we had a question he would answer within a day. Work with Mark.

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Posted by anonymous | December 21, 2022

Amazing Lawyer! Highly Recommended!

Mark went above and beyond to help me with my bankruptcy case even though there was all sorts of extra work and documents that he normally wouldn't have to deal with. He was patient, very informative, timely and answered all my questions no matter how "dumb" they were. He pays super attention to detail and because of all this, our case was successful and I can't thank him enough for helping me! I'd definitely recommend him if you ever need help with bankruptcy! A++ -K

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Posted by Sha-hid | December 13, 2022

Excellent Attorney

If you need someone to walk you through the process, then look no further. He will help you out with what seems like and endless amount of paperwork, but you come out smooth on the other side. Just ask your questions, and he'll give you the answers. Great job!

Posted by Linda | January 31, 2022

Chapter 7

Filing bankruptcy is overwhelming but Mark supported me throughout each step. He was knowledgeable, thorough and extremely helpful. He showed me kindness and respect. I would recommend him, highly, to anyone in need!

Posted by Felix | February 22, 2021

Very good attorney

Mark was helpful, professional, patient, and supportive through out the whole process. I would definitely use his services again should the need the arise and will absolutely recommend him to others.

Posted by Christine | September 28, 2020

Highly recommend - thorough, knowledgeable and patient

Mark is incredibly professional, knowledgeable, thorough and kind. Like many I was under an incredible amount of stress during the time that I filed; he was incredibly patient and made the process very straightforward. I am grateful for all of his support throughout my Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and would highly recommend his services to anyone.

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Posted by Erik | September 20, 2020

You want Mark in your corner

It took awhile for me to finally realize I didn't have any other options then to declare bankruptcy. With that came the feelings of failure and projecting what others would think of me. When I finally came time to pull the trigger, I found Mark J. Markus in my internet search. He made the procedure simple, and put me at ease. I had built up the entire process in my head into a massive event where I'd be paraded around a court room and yelled at. I never had to leave home. There was no yelling or accusations. You fill out the paperwork Mark sends you, as truthfully as you can recollect (it's similar to filling out your taxes). If you have questions, you ask Mark. If he has questions, he asks you. Just read the other reviews here, and you'll realize you're putting yourself in good hands with Mark J. Markus.

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Posted by anonymous | July 6, 2020

Id give him a sixth star if it was an option.

Within minutes of working with Mark I knew I was in professional hands. His clear level of experience, responsiveness, and genuine care can not be understated. He effortlessly made every step of the process not only possible but kept me confident and feeling like everything was going to work out.

Posted by Manny | January 29, 2020

Intelligent, helpful and professional

Me and my wife tried every possible way to avoid heading into bankruptcy, but there was no chance. Looked up Mark on google and the reviews were true. Mark knows the law and is very meticulous about every single paperwork needed and/or missing. Worth every penny. Also, it's worth mentioning that because I'm a Veteran with disabilities, our case happened to fall under special circumstances as we were preparing the paperwork for a chapter 13 because of my wife's income. There was a new law passed by the president, the HEAVEN Act, which helped turned our initial Chapter 13 petition into a Chapter 7, so Mark, who just learned of this new law as we did made sure we were squared away with all our paperwork needed to petition a Chapter 7 successfully. This was very important because the Trustee did not know of the new law either, and Mark made sure that our case and paperwork were solid. Despite the issues with the trustee thinking we had discrepancies, which we didn't, we provided everything to the Trustee that Mark requested, and as of this week we have received our discharge. It may seem daunting, but after he takes over, and you do your part carefully it's pretty much a smooth ride, then a waiting game. Mark, thank you for everything!!!

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Posted by Joseph | January 27, 2020

Not a better lawyer out there!

I couldn't recommend Mr. Markus enough. Not only did he make the whole process of Chapter 7 bankruptcy easy, he was also there every step of the way to answer any and all questions immediately. A big reason why I chose him was how he treated me during our initial phone consultation. He explained how the whole process worked, went over details of my case, and answered all the questions I had. Even when I told him at the end of our consultation that I hadn't decided on who I would choose to represent me (I had a few more initial consultations lined up that day with various lawyers), he STILL gave me valuable advice and answered extra questions I had. This was not the case with other lawyers I spoke with. After making the decision to hire Mr. Markus, I could not be happier. He took care of every detail in my case and it couldn't have been easier for me on my end. If you need a bankruptcy lawyer, I highly recommend Mr. Markus.

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Posted by anonymous | October 16, 2019

Sued By My Neighbors for MY Property

MR. MARKUS is one of a kind attorney. A rare breed not usually encountered in his profession. He is not representative of the typical 70's cocktail attorney jokes you've heard in the past. He is here to help you navigate through the most trying and stressful time in your life. When it seems like no one cares and others have walked away from you or you feel you're alone in your misery, he is able to give you solid information and demonstrates clear and concise problem solving skills that any lay person can understand and follow. He is not that kind of attorney that strings you along padding his invoices trying to make partner. His motive is to help you get through the dark hole so you can see the light, regain your life and start a new. I have never been so touched emotionally by an attorney that truly had nothing to gain from me other than sincerely trying to help me and my family. Step by step process can be done by emails and scanning documents. You can even scheduled you phone call appointments through his website. The process is very transparent with time lines on payment and anticipated filing dates. You can rest assure he is the one that will give you your life back.

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Posted by Felix | March 26, 2019

GREAT LAWYER!

Mark is an outstanding attorney and an exceptional human being. He is not only extremely knowledgeable and well-versed in all aspects of bankruptcy law, but he is also a sincere, kind, compassionate and caring person. Obviously, filing bankruptcy was not a high-point in my life. Along with immense monetary burdens, I was also shouldering a great deal of shame, anxiety and stress. Mark alleviated those burdens. He treated me with respect and kindness. He promptly returned my calls and emails. His professionalism, astute legal mind, and generosity of spirit enabled me to proceed through the bankruptcy process without shame. Knowing I had an attorney who was honest and trustworthy also eased the burden of bankruptcy. I cannot recommend Mark enough, as he is absolutely the attorney you want representing you if and/or when you find yourself having to file for bankruptcy. Again, thank you very much Mark, you are the best!

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Posted by Sister #2 | March 21, 2019

Best Attorny Ever!!

I have just been discharged from my CH 13 plan, and I am very grateful that Mr. Markus was my attorney. He is very intelligent, skilled, wise and very kind. He was with me every step of the way during the whole duration of my CH 13 bankruptcy case. I couldn't have done it without his help. He is an awesome super lawyer!! Thank you so much for everything!

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Posted by Dena | May 19, 2018

Patient, Hardworking, and Highly Knowledgeable Attorney

It is with thanks and admiration that I write this commendation of Mark J. Markus, Attorney At Law. We retained Mark as our attorney about a year after I was laid off, when we realized that we would, sadly, have to declare bankruptcy. It wasn’t easy to make the decision to file. Mark quickly answered every single email I ever sent him, oftentimes within 30 minutes or less. This is a man who works very, very hard for his clients. Mark helped us through a long, painful, challenging process. He was there for us every step of the way, guiding us through a difficult procedure. He made everything easier. Our case was particularly challenging because we were right on the cusp between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13. It was time consuming for Mark to run multiple Means Tests for us because I had several small sources of income. Mark is patient, kind, intelligent, and went above and beyond the call of duty to ensure that we were well taken care of. I don’t know if we would have been able to successfully declare Chapter 7 without having Mark as our attorney. He is highly knowledgeable. Thank you, Mark, for all that you did for us and for helping us though the bankruptcy process. PS: Mark Markus is a sweet person and a dog lover who was very kind to my pug when I had to bring him by the office twice.

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Posted by Michael | August 12, 2017

Detail-Oriented Bankruptcy Attorney with Knowledge & Experience

If you live in the San Fernando Valley (or really anywhere in the Los Angeles area), and you're considering filing for bankruptcy, Mark is the lawyer you should contact. Earlier this year, I made the mistake of hiring a 'cheap' bankruptcy attorney. That person's intentions were good, but he just didn't know how to navigate my case. That person also gave me some bad advice, and since he worked for a large firm, he wasn't able to give me the attention that I needed. I moved on from that person, hired Mark, and never looked back. Mark was incredibly detail oriented. No stone was left unturned, and when I finally filed for Chapter 7, I was completely prepared. When it came to issues that Mark doesn't deal with, such as student loans, he referred me to outstanding colleagues. He also answered all of my emails and/or phone calls within 24 hours - even on weekends! I highly recommend hiring him. Your financial future is just too important. He will never sugarcoat your situation, and he will expertly guide you though the stressful bankruptcy experience.

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Posted by Fritz | October 17, 2013

Pros: excellent response time; worked exclusively with Mark; thorough and experienced; good value.

Positives: *unparalleled response time. Would usually answer emails within an hour or two, including nights and weekends; never more than a day *worked with Mark and only Mark--no paralegals, etc. *thorough and experienced: he only does bankruptcy law, and has been doing it for decades; sorted out some unusual circumstances for me *good value: he's not the cheapest nor the most expensive; but a very good value. Neutral: *In a six month process, only two phone conversations--everything was done over email--and I never met him *he routinely does not appear at the creditors' meeting; one of our two phone conversations was prior to this meeting (the other phone conversation was the initial consultation) so I was prepared for the meeting; but most petitioners had their attorney's present.

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Posted by Ellie | July 26, 2010

Re-opening bk case help

I had a bankruptcy case that was closed without discharge due to failure to file Official form 23 (2nd Credit counseling). I talked to several lawyers as I was trying to find someone good who would be able to guide me through reopening of my case in order to get a discharge. I didn't feel very good about any of the lawyers I talked to, until I found Mark J. Markus. There aren't enough good words I can say about him. He replied to me immediately, and he always did throughout our work together. He explained in detail what needed to be done and what the chances are for my case to be re-opened. He was very knowledgeable about it. He quoted me the price for his services immediately (which were very reasonable compared to some other rip-off lawyers I talked to), and told me which papers to send him. My motion to the Judge was filed less then a week from the first time I contacted him. I was amazed by his professionalism and prompt action. The judge answered within 5 days, and my case was re-opened, and I will be getting my discharge! I am so happy with the result, and I know I only have Mark J. Markus to thank for it. I will always recommend him to all of my friends and family and I am happy we have such great attorneys in California. Thank you Mark!

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Posted by Tao | May 26, 2010

Highly recommended, the best bankruptcy lawyer ever!

I still don't know how to express my gratefulness to Mr. Mark, though my case has been discharged about 4 months ago. If you go to read my testimonial on Mr. Mark's own website, and come back here, I'll tell you the same thing, the same feeling, the very strong same opinion about Mr. Mark, as a professional, he is the best! He saved my personal financial life! I would absolutely recommend Mr.Mark for your needs!

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 9.7 (Superb)

Work Experience

Owner/Attorney
Law Office of Mark J. Markus
1995 - Present

Associate
Fierstein & Sturman
1994 - 1994

Attorney
Charles T. Morrison, Jr. Inc.
1990 - 1994

Education

University of Arizona College of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
1990

California State University, Northridge
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1986

Legal Cases

In re Zhang
Discharge granted

In re Jensen
Obtained a judgment in favor of the debtors, convincing Judge to rule that keeping those assets didn't rise to "abuse".

Associations

Bankruptcy Inn of Court--Southern California
Member
2009 - Present

Central District Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys Association
Founding Member
2006 - Present

Financial Lawyers Conference
Member
1998 - Present

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Member
1998 - Present

Los Angeles Bankruptcy Forum
member
1996 - Present

Los Angeles County Bar Association
Member
1995 - Present

San Fernando Valley Bar Association
Member
1995 - Present

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Bankruptcy Law Specialist Certification
State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
2012

AV Peer Review Rating
Martindale-Hubbell
2011

A+ rating
Better Business Bureau
2011

AV-Rating
Martindale-Hubbell
2010

AV Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2009

A+ rating
Better Business Bureau
2009

View all awards

Publications

Los Angeles Bankruptcy Blog
You Can Keep Your Property in Any Bankruptcy Case
2013

CDCBAA Newsletter
Filing Bankruptcy For Debtors Living/Working Outside the U.S.A.
2007

The Entertainment and Sports Lawyer
Crossing the Line: Television Entertainers and Intentional Infliction of Emotional Distress
1990

Speaking Engagements

Guest Lecturer in class "Doing Business in the USA"
Business and Consumer Bankruptcy in the USA
2014

Paralegal Education Seminar
Practical Bankruptcy Techniques for Paralegals
2005

Money 101 with Bob McCormick
bankruptcy law--Supreme Court decisions
2004

Attorney endorsements

Received (29)

Given (19)

Endorse Mark

Stephanie Reyes

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Markus provides a much needed service on Avvo. He donates his time to individuals who are in need of immediately legal answers."

Stuart Steingraber

Unknown Attorney | Mar 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Markus is a frequent contributor on the Avvo website. His responses are accurate, concise and best of all, practical and useful. I endorse this lawyer."

Leonard Boyer

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | May 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mr. Markus is a very knowledgeable and effective advocate for his clients."

Joseph Franco

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Apr 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Mr. Markus for his successes in bankruptcy law."

Charles Farrell

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Mar 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. When you are looking for someone to help you with debt issues you want someone like Mark who has the experience and knowledge to guide you through the bankruptcy process."

Catherine Eranthe

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Mar 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. If you have a case in the Los Angeles area, I would not hesitate to recommend Mark. He is both knowledgeable and caring."

Sean Cleary

Chapter 11 bankruptcy Attorney | Dec 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A brilliant, trustworthy and highly respected attorney in the legal community."

Douglas Borthwick

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Nov 19
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Hovanes Margarian

Chapter 11 bankruptcy Attorney | Jul 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Stacey Washington

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Attorney Markus is an experienced bankruptcy attorney who has earned the respect of both lawyers and clients alike. If you are in need of help with bankruptcy/debt issues, give him a call. I endorse this lawyer."

John O'Brien

Chapter 11 bankruptcy Attorney | May 30
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Seth Hanson

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 17
Relationship: Other

"I endorse this lawyer."

Aaron Harper

Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Oct 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

James Beirne

Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney | Jun 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Nathan Berneman

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Feb 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Mark is very competent in the areas of Chapter 7, 11 and 13's. I have known Mark for many years now and I always respect his advice and knowledge in bankruptcy."

Christian Lassen

Unknown Attorney | Dec 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

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

Matthew Quick

Unknown Attorney | Feb 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am pleased to have the opportunity to endorse Atty. Markus. He gives clear and detailed advice and counsel and is certainly an asset to any client. I am proud to consider him a colleague."

John Vos

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Certainly I endorse this lawyer. I know him thru our professional organization,National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys. Attorney Mark Markus provides detailed and honest postings on AVVO assisting those with various areas of bankruptcy law, foreclosure and debt problems. He is articulate, intelligent, and thorough. Also, his comments show his genuine compassion for his clients. A true professional. It gives me pleasure to endorse him to you."

Joseph Ostrowski

Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Jan 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Attorney Markus, I have read many of his posts and I endorse this lawyer as a valuable member of this forum. Attorneys who participate in this forum are providing useful information for those in need and should be commended. Further, the type of information conveyed is in the true spirit of professionalism where information is provided to help those in need which is the underpinning of the legal profession. Often the users of this forum are given second opinions that expand on information or provide contradictory information. Providing information empowers the uninformed to go forward with confronting their legal problems. I recommend and endorse this attorney for all listed areas of practice in his profile."

Dorothy Bunce

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Dec 23
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mark Joseph Markus is careful about what he says & wants to know all the facts before offering his valued opinion. I can't say how strongly I support his taking this position, as a small difference in understanding the facts often makes all the difference between right & wrong. A superb attorney!"

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Stuart Steingraber

Bankruptcy and debt

Catherine Eranthe

Bankruptcy and debt

Seth Hanson

Bankruptcy and debt