Michael Ernest Doukas

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney at San Diego, CA

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Great representation

Above and beyond

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Lawsuits and disputes

55%

Resolve disputes and collection lawsuits. Flat fee 1 hour consultations available with no further commitment. Review and advise consumer and small businesses of their options.

28 years
Debt collection

45%

Resolve collection lawsuits and other debt problems for consumers. Flat fee 1 hour consultations available, no further commitment. Review and advise debtors of their options. Assessment available of whether bankruptcy should be investigated.
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28 years

DEFENDING AND SETTLING DEBT COLLECTION LAWSUITS FOR CONSUMERS. FLAT FEES TO NEGOTIATE SETTLEMENTS.

THE LAW OFFICE OF MICHAEL DOUKAS focuses on consumer financial law, offering debt collection lawsuit settlement, problem solving, litigation, and helping some do-it-yourselfer's sued in debt collection lawsuits as a consultant.

Attorney Michael Doukas negotiates to resolve business problems.

For consumers, he advises on issues of settlement if a consumer has been sued in debt collection lawsuits, advises on suspected abuse from creditors and debt collectors, advises victims of identity theft, and helps clients who have credit report inaccuracies.

Some people who are sued by creditors want to represent themselves, Attorney Doukas helps such Defendants represent themselves with his advice on an "as needed" basis. Many times he helps them decide what is best. He can settle cases for them. Mr. Doukas finds this kind of supportive, limited-scope representation very satisfying.

Attorney Michael Doukas is Avvo rated 10 out of 10, or Superb for Lawsuits & Disputes. He has 72 positive client reviews for you to read: Click Here

RATHER GET LEGAL ADVICE OVER COFFEE to discuss a lawsuit, contract, debt, or any legal problem? Meet an experienced attorney over coffee at Starbucks or your favorite coffee shop to comfortably get legal advise.

NEED A REFERRAL TO A PERSONAL INJURY OR OTHER LITIGATION ATTORNEY? I have a network of lawyers from over 28 years in the law. So, ask me if you have another kind of case issue and I may have someone I know and trust I can refer you to.

PLEASE CALL IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS or want to explore whether Mr. Doukas can help you with a legal problem. Get a free telephonic consultation of your options for up to 20 minutes.

Awards

Client's Choice

2017 2016 2014 + 3 ...

Photos and videos

Licensed for 28 years

State CA

Status Active

Acquired 1994

Updated 12/01/2022

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

Contact Michael

Law Office of Michael Doukas

(858) 876-7456 Office

(800) 300-3617 Fax

(858) 876-7456 Mobile

Virtual

San Diego, CA, 92130

northcounty.attorney

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Reviews

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5.0 / 5.0

72 customer reviews

5 Star

99%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Michael received a significant number of 4+ stars in 2017

Posted by Erik | March 27, 2019

Great representation

The attorney for my estate referred us to Michael after we were wrongfully named as defendants in a debt collection lawsuit. Michael was super efficient, responsive, and professional in successfully addressing our case. Getting sued is frustrating, getting sued when you’re not the right defendant is infuriating. Michael made the process of clearing us from the case as painless as possible.

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Posted by Jeffrey | February 27, 2019

Above and beyond

Mr Doukas was the best choice I made regarding my credit card case. Not only did I get it resolved but I got it "Line removed" almost unheard of. So now there is no record of it ever being on my record. Also he was not expensive. 1/3rd of any other lawyer I contacted.. that's what I can say

Posted by Sarah | March 17, 2021

Quick and Easy

Asked Mike to take care of a little issue that arose. He responded quickly and professionally and was honest and straight forward with what we could expect. Whole matter took 2 weeks to resolve and done. No stress.

Posted by anonymous | December 13, 2019

Easy and excellent service

Michael helped me with my commercial debt situation.it only took him 4 weeks to get everything resolved and I paid less than I was supposed to pay, also got all the marks on credit report removed. Very professional and easy process. Highly recommend him

Posted by anonymous | September 21, 2018

Quick and efficient!!

I contacted Mr. Doukas after I had received a summons because a debt collector was suing me to collect an outstanding balance. I was so very surprised because I could not believe that I was actually being sued! After making some calls in a frantic search for help, I was referred to Mr. Doukas. I conducted a quick search online and felt confident contacting him after reading all his amazing reviews. He responded very quickly and during my consultation, it was clear that he was very knowledgeable in these matters. He laid out my options in clear and easy-to-understand terms and invited me to take some time, if needed, before deciding to hire him. I thought about it and just knew that he would be able to help me resolve my matter in a much less painful manner. And boy, did he do that! The process required almost no effort from me, and Mr. Doukas initiated contact with the debt collector very quickly. The next thing I knew, we had reached an agreement and I was able to settle my debt! I could not believe how easy Mr. Doukas made this process for me, and I was able to secure an amazing settlement! Any time I had a question, Mr. Doukas responded VERY quickly. I would highly recommend Mr. Doukas for any debt-related matters!

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Posted by Rob | May 31, 2018

Quick and responsive on debt collection issue

Attorney Michael Doukas represented me on a flat fee debt collection issue. He was quick, responsive and professional. Most importantly, he saved me money and time in dealing with the opposing attorney. He consulted me that pursuing the matter wouldn’t have been in my best interest financially. I’m happy this was resolved in a quick manner and I can get on with my life without worrying about being sued and having to defend myself. I would recommend him and obtain his services on any future issues.

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Posted by Brenda J Martin | July 25, 2017

Excellent Experience & Results!

Michael Doukas resolved an credit issue that was unresolved for years. As the statute of limitations neared, it became clear that action was needed in order to preserve my credit and move forward in resolving the situation. Michael communicated, negotiated, and resolved the outstanding issue affordably, professionally, and in a timely manner. Years of non-resolution resolved in a matter of weeks! I can get on with my life without a judgement hanging over my finances! Thank you!

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Posted by Irina | March 22, 2017

Excellent Client service and support

I was being sued by two collection agencies and being in a very stressed out situation, I called many lawyers and only Michael returned my call within 15 min. He took my case and help me resolve my issues promptly with great communication. He made all paperworks easy and he walked me through the whole process with ease. He took on my case as if it was his own and defended me to the fullest. Within two weeks, both cases were settled.

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Posted by Chelsea | March 6, 2017

Debt Settlement

Within minutes of an inquiry sent to Mr. Doukas I received a call from him personally to discuss my case. It was a direct reflection on the way that he handled the remainder of my legal issue. He was extremely prompt at responding to any and all questions that I had for him and took the stress out of resolving a legal issue. I would absolutely recommend Mr. Doukas to anyone that is in need of legal advice. Thank you so much for all that you did for me!

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Posted by Paula | February 27, 2017

Would Definitely Recommend

Mr. Doukas was very quick and responsive in providing me much needed direction for my case. He responds to email and messages in a very timely manner and was very good a keeping me informed of the progress of my case.

Posted by Robert W Orr | January 24, 2017

Excellent counsel

He represented me in litigation against me by a large national company. He was always available. Incredibly accessible. He walked me through the entire process and was able to obtain for me a very reasonable settlement. I highly recommend him. Best attorney with whom I've ever worked.

Posted by anonymous | January 13, 2017

Highly Recommend Michael Doukas

Michael represented myself in a debt settlement case. Fantastic results. Amazing follow up and communication.

Posted by Claudia | January 11, 2017

Excellent guidance and effective counsel

Highly recommend Michael. His depth of knowledge provided me effective guidance and counsel. In addition, he was very timely in his responses.

Posted by Brandon | October 12, 2016

Credit Card Debt Settlement

Michael was very informative and profession throughout the settlement process. He kept me well informed and I'm happy with the outcome of my case. If I ever need a lawyer again he'll be my first choice.

Posted by Eddie | October 11, 2016

The Gold Standard of Attorneys

I reached out to Mike Doukas to seek legal help for a civil case against a collection group. After reviewing my case in detail Mike did a great job of explaining everything to me and an even better job defending me in this case. Mike was very professional and attentive to everything that needed to be done. He would clearly go through all the steps we would need to take in order to win my case. He was also very transparent on what his fees covered (which were very fair), so there was no confusion there. In the end Mike presented a phenomenal case and was able get me out of this suit before going to court. His experience and knowledge is a great asset to have in your corner. I would recommend him to anyone seeking legal consul. I really appreciate him working with me and taking on my case, it has been a pleasure working with him.

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Posted by Britt | September 6, 2016

Fast, responsive, good guidance!

Attorney Doukas called me within 1-2 hours of my request for a consultation. Time was of the essence because I had a case where I needed to respond within 5 business days. We had a conversation that afternoon and he guided me on the industry, my case, the other party's likely actions/responses/attitude - and based on the information he shared, I was able to make a quick decision on what path to take. His advice worked well and the other party responded in agreement within 3 days. Attorney Doukas set up the paperwork and got all needed signatures and paperwork filed within the timeframe I needed. He's great, extremely responsive, and I would absolutely use him again.

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Posted by Robert | July 27, 2016

Michael Doukas is without a doubt, a great attorney

My Attorney Michael Doukas went above and beyond the scope of our initial consultation. He actually got me results that I never thought was possible. He was very organized, always communicating with me every step of the way! Whenever I would call him or text him, he would either call/text me right back never leaving me wondering or hanging out to dry. I can say without a doubt, he was looking out for my best interest and if your looking for legal counsel for Privacy matters when it comes to your non-public information, I highly recommend this ethical and hard working attorney! Michael Doukas is a man with integrity and HE DID WHAT HE SAID HE WAS GOING TO DO! I highly recommend him, he will get you the results that I believe other attorneys can't... Thanks again Mr Doukas!

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Posted by Richard Moore | July 22, 2016

Sometimes the best advice does not come in the form of legal intricacies

I hired Mr. Doukas for legal advice about a situation. He gave me very pragmatic and on point advice. He looked at my situation, and his common sense counsel pointed me in the right direction. I would hire Mr. Doukas again in a heartbeat.

Posted by Monika | March 7, 2016

Judgement case settlement

Mr. Doukas was able to assist in settling a creditor judgement case on my behalf and I am very grateful for all his great work. Mr. Doukas stayed on top of my case, handled the paperwork and replied to my questions in a very short time frame. During this process I nver felt "alone" trying to battle this legal process. I highly recommend his services !!

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Posted by Guy | September 29, 2015

Knowledgeable, Effective, Compassionate

Mr. Doukas was completely effective responding to and guiding me through a matter requiring a court response. His efforts were timely and knowledgeable resulting in a cost savings to me. My matter was settled and Mr. Doukas' service was exemplary.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Attorney
Law Office of Michael Doukas
2003 - Present

Partner
Doukas & Hewell
1997 - 2002

Attorney
Michael Ernest Doukas
1994 - 1997

Consultant
Doukas Group
1987 - 1994

Operations Research
US Air Force
1979 - 1987

Associate Mathematician
Westinghouse Electric Corporation
1978 - 1979

View all work experience

Education

California Western School of Law
JD
1994

American University
MSTM
1979

McDaniel College
BA
1974

United States Naval Academy
N/A

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Legal Cases

Wieden vs. Cross-defendant (class action cross-complaint) Riverside Superior Court, Case No. INC 047177
The total monetary value of the settlement to Class Members (312 consumers) was approximately $3,699,000 on a claims-made basis.

Thies v. Law Offices of William A. Wyman, et al. (S.D. Cal., July 23, 1997) 969 F.Supp. 604
Federal Judge Rudi Brewster held that the FDCPA applies to the collection of delinquent homeowner association fees. The case changed the way such debts are collected In California immediately and has been cited nationally.

Associations

United States Court of Appeals For the Ninth Circuit
Admitted to Practice
1998 - Present

North County Bar Association
Member
1994 - Present

State Bar of California
Member
1994 - Present

United States District Court for the Southern District of California
Admitted to Practice
1994 - Present

US Naval Academy Alumni Association
Lifetime Member
1974 - Present

North County Bar Association
Treasurer
2015 - 2015

North County Bar Association
Board of Directors
2013 - 2015

California Western School of Law
Judge, Moot Court Honors Board
2012 - 2012

San Diego Superior Court
Pro Tem Judge
1999 - 2001

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Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Outstanding Dedication and Service
North County Bar Association
2015

Appreciation, Director/Treasurer of NCBA
North County Bar Association
2015

Outstanding Dedication and Service
North County Bar Association
2014

Outstanding Dedication and Service
North County Bar Association
2013

Outstanding Dedication and Service
North County Bar Association
2012

Outstanding Dedication and Service
North County Bar Association
2011

Certificate, Servicemembers Civil Relief Act Panel
North County Bar Association
2010

Outstanding Dedication and Service
North County Bar Association
2005

Exemplary Dedication and Extraordinary Contributions
North County Bar Association
1998

Air Force Organizational Excellance Award
United States Air Force
1982

National Defense Service Medal
United States Navy
1970

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Publications

North County Lawyer Magazine
Limiting Your Rights to Privacy in Collections
2011

North County Lawyer Magazine
From The Used Car Trenches
2004

North County Lawyer Magazine
LRS Benefits Consumers to the Tune of $8.7 Million
2000

North County Lawyer Magazine
Judge Brewster Brings HOA Collections Under Federal Law
1997

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Speaking Engagements

Bankruptcy Section
Selected FDCPA Issues for Bankruptcy Counsel
2015

Bankruptcy Section
Practical Credit Reporting Litigation
2012

Dealing with Debt Seminar
Dealing with Debt
2011

Bankruptcy Section
FDCPA Violations for the Bankruptcy Practicioner
2011

CRES Insurance Services
Debt and Credit
2011

Business-Real Estate Section
Selected Consumer Issues
2002

Bankruptcy Section
Consumer Issues for Bankruptcy Counsel
2000

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Attorney endorsements

Received (11)

Given (11)

Endorse Michael

Ikuko Brookshire

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Jan 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I am proud to endorse Mr. Doukas. He is an exceptional attorney with impeccable reputation amongst his colleagues. He is also an active member of the legal community and a member of the Board of Directors of the North County Bar Association."

Jeffrey Lacy

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Mar 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Michael is an intelligent and hard working attorney whom I respect."

John Stralen

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Jan 30
Relationship: Friend

"I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Agruss

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Apr 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Michael Doukas. Michael focuses his career on litigation and consumer matters. Not only does Michael spend time giving free legal advice on Avvo, but he also does pro bono work for people in th military. Michael is an asset to the legal community."

Michael Meagher

Litigation Attorney | Jan 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"It has been my privilege to know Michael for 20 years. He represents the best that the profession of law has to offer. He is insightful, courteous and well reasoned in his approach to cases. I strongly recommend him."

Linda Destephano

Unknown Attorney | Jan 04
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mike consistently delivers detailed, thorough case analysis and expertise. Mike is a dependable and professional lawyer, with keen insight and sage advice. I endorse this lawyer."

Radmila Fulton

Lawsuits and disputes Attorney | Jan 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have been a bankruptcy attorney for over 30 years and have worked with Michael for over 15 of those years referring my clients that have experienced violations of the debt collection laws or have been sued on collection matters. He has a knack for thinking outside the box and coming up with solutions to help his clients. His relationships with clients is outstanding; I often check back with the clients that I have referred to ask how their matter is progressing and they have universally told me that they truly appreciate Mike's efforts on their behalf. As a litigator, he employs a balance between advocating assertively for his clients, listening to the opposition's concerns, and finding win-win solutions that yield effective settlements. I wholeheartedly endorse Michael."

Harold Hewell

General practice Attorney | Dec 02
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I had the distinct pleasure of working with Michael Doukas as co-counsel on several matters a few years ago, and I came to rely on his remarkable knack for quickly getting to the heart of a dispute and formulating an approach crafted to achieve the best result for his client as expeditiously as possible. Michael is one of those rare attorneys who can maintain his professional objectivity toward the matter at hand without forgetting the needs of his clients. He realizes that legal disputes and litigation can be stressful, and his concern for each client is genuine. Additionally, he conducts his practice in strict adherence to the highest of ethical standards. I enthusiastically recommend Michael to any consumer in need of a highly qualified attorney to advocate on their behalf."

Deborah Raymond

Debt collection Attorney | May 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I have had the pleasure of knowing Michael Doukas for over 10 years because we both belong to the small community of attorneys who represent and seek to protect the rights of consumers with financial/debt issues. Mr. Doukas represents consumers who have experienced debt collection abuse. From my observations, Mr. Doukas is compassionate and provides high quality representation to his clients."

Anastasia Ganatsios

Debt collection Attorney | May 07
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse this lawyer. Mike Doukas takes on creditors and debt collectors who abuse consumers. He also defends consumers sued in debt collection lawsuits no matter how formidable the adversary. I highly recommend him to consumers who need someone to fight for them."

Virginia Lopez

Debt collection Attorney | Mar 20
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly recommend Michael Doukas. He has extensive expertise in the area of Fair Debt Collection. He is a dedicated advocate and effectively represents his clients against creditor harrassment and violations of the debt collection laws. I am proud to endorse Mr. Doukas."

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