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Gregory Mark Fitzgerald

Debt settlement Attorney at Santa Ana, CA

4.6   31 reviews

also known as Greg Fitzgerald

Free consultation
Free consultation
  • Licensed for 32 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1991
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Gregory

Learn Gregory’s areas of practice.

2
Practice areas
  1. Debt settlement
    80%

    32 years, 5,000 cases

  2. Bankruptcy and debt
    20%
    Aside from bankruptcy, we assist with debt defense, collection harassment, judgments, wage garnishments, liens, private student loan problems, and business debts of all kinds. We are a winning Collection Defense Law Firm.

    32 years, 100 cases

OUR FIRM CREATES A CUSTOM “GET OUT OF DEBT PLAN” MADE FOR YOUR SPECIFIC CIRCUMSTANCES. CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE 30 MINUTE CONSULTATION WITH ONE OF OUR CASE ANALYSTS TODAY!

Gregory Fitzgerald was born and raised in Los Angeles County. He attended high school overseas and returned to the US in 1980 where he attended California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks, California. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting (1984) and began his post-collegiate career as a tax auditor with the IRS. Dissatisfied with the inherent unfairness of the US Tax Code, he obtained a California contractor’s license, worked as a contractor by day and went to law school at night. He graduated first in his class at Southern California College of Law in 1990, passed the California bar exam and commenced practicing law in 1991.
He began his legal career working for a small criminal defense/personal injury firm before opening his practice in 1992 in Orange CA. Fitzgerald & Associates focused on representing individual consumers in matters ranging from injury to debt to criminal to tenancy and more. In 1998, he moved his practice to Santa Ana, renamed the firm Fitzgerald & Malk, and expanded the practice to include providing legal services to small businesses. In 2006 he accepted a position at The Seideman Law Firm, P.C., a national consumer rights law firm, focusing on consumer protection. At The Seideman Law Firm, P.C. he was primarily responsible for the creation, instruction, and management of a nationwide team of lawyers to combat collection abuses, defend collection lawsuits, and resolve the debt. He left The Seideman Law Firm, P.C. in April 2013 to form Fitzgerald Campbell, a professional law corporation dedicated to making itself California’s premier consumer debt protection law firm.
Mr. Fitzgerald has always been dedicated to helping individuals and small business from the substantial and unfair overreach of the government and its protected insiders such as banks, insurance companies, and other large crony corporate interests such as debt buyers and collectors. In 22 years of practice he has represented thousands of clients, tried hundreds of cases, and secured countless victories for his clients. He was an Orange County Judge Pro Tem from 1996 to 2006, is admitted to practice before all California state courts (CA bar #153082), is admitted to The United States District Court for the Central District, Southern District, Eastern District and the Northern District of California. He is also a member of the Orange County Bar Association, the Western San Bernardino County Bar Association, and Consumer Attorneys of California.
Over the years, he has started several businesses. In addition to his law practice, he has owned and operated such businesses as a restaurant, independent flooring contractor, collection agency and others. This experience has assisted Mr. Fitzgerald’s understanding of and appreciation for the challenges confronted by anyone striving to succeed in America today.
Full disclosure requires that you be advised that in 2009 he was named in a class action suit filed in Texas against his employer, The Seideman Law Firm, P.C., and others. Although Mr. Fitzgerald was dismissed early in the proceedings, The Seideman Law Firm, P.C. did eventually enter into a settlement agreement with the “class”. What Mr. Fitzgerald learned from this experience is that in many class action suits, it is the lawyers who benefit most.
Gregory Fitzgerald is married, has two sons, two dogs, and a cat. He lives in Santa Ana, California. For recreation, he enjoys golf, hiking, and family. He considers himself to be a libertarian, a Lutheran, and very fortunate to be able to live and work in California. Two blogs he reads and recommends are and .

 

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Contact Gregory

Fitzgerald & Campbell, A Professional Law
400 N. Tustin Avenue
Suite 401
Santa Ana, CA, 92705

Reviews

4.6 / 5.0
  31 customer reviews
Posted by anonymous | December 7, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Greg Fitzgerald Rocks! Thank you
Greg has helped us so much with a really bad situation we were in. I can't even believe I am saying this about an attorney (no offense to attorneys but...) he is actually caring, helpful, and honest. He spent so much time listening to our circumstances and answering questions before we even retained him. I was so impressed by his knowledge and honesty, and compassion for our dire situation. He does not BS, sugar coat things, or make false promises, he is the real deal. If you are like me and look at reviews before hiring an attorney, I want you to know there is a reason why he has such great ratings on multiple review platforms, which is also why I called him in the first place. Hope this review helps someone find a great attorney when they need one!
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Posted by anonymous | April 25, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Perfect Representation
My case was a credit card debt. I was sued in another state, they tried to enter the judgment in California. I made an appointment with Fitzgerald and Campbell, they explained to me the meaning of the law suit and made all research about the case and prepared a perfect strategic for the case and We WON. Then they appealed and We WON again. Let me tell you. You are in the BEST HANDS an Excellent law firm.
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Posted by anonymous | March 8, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding Legal Service
When I really needed help. Associate April Inlow worked so very hard to help me settle my issue. When I call or just email April was always there for me. The whole entire staff was outstanding. I highly recommend anyone who need assistant please contact Fritzgerld and Campbell. Trust me you will be very satisfied.
Posted by Lisa | January 19, 2017
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Open communication at it's finest.
I found Attorney Fitzgerald of Fitzgerald Campbell, APLC after a simple web search and decided to give his office a call for their free consultation. I had lost my father the year prior and was working my way through severe depression so all my bills had suffered during that time and I was truly overwhelmed by trying to figure things out. The reception was courteous and patient during my initial phone call and all subsequent calls for that matter. I quickly received a return call from Attorney Fitzgerald and we began my initial free consultation. Between the fear, anxiety and stress of my situation, Attorney Fitzgerald was great at keeping me calm and truly hearing me out. Even with my financial situation being shaky, he was reassuring that he would do all he could to help me through it and "we" would work it out. He was very clear on what I needed to do from my side so that he could help me in the best way possible. He answered any and all questions without hesitation and even offered answers to questions I didn't realize I had! The communication with the case managers was and remains clear, concise and quick. Any time I needed some information, they were there. Adam Jauregui and Fabiola Parkerson were great about working within my budget to get started on my cases. Even when I fell behind in my retainer fees due to hard times and moving, they worked with me to get everything on track again. Never once did I feel judged, rushed or pushed into any decision regarding my cases. April Inlow and Sam Foster have been great with keeping me informed about the status of my cases and the honest opinions they had regarding what my options were for my next move in any given situation. I have recently settled the first case and April was great in making sure I was able to get the most realistic payment option within my limits. She communicated with me every step of the way. This is simply an excellent office to work with. I would recommend them to anyone.
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Posted by anonymous | October 21, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Portfolio Recovery Associates, LLC / Sears credit card
This is my second time using Greg Fitzgerald. I had an debt issue with Portfolio Recovery Associates (Sears) about $ 1134.00 in credit card debt. Greg and his legal assistant Sam Foster worked on getting a settlement resolved. Both and Greg and Sam had got right on the matter. I was in good hands. I had question about being served (Saturday), Greg responded to his email on a Saturday to following up with me on upcoming Monday. Not too many lawyers follow up until the next business day. My settlement took 6 months, but I was also in pre-litigation. Sam Foster made sure to up me updated on a weekly to bi-weekly basis on any communication from creditor. It was also Sam's suggestion to settle for $650 instead of $785.00. I learned a lot from this experience. Overall, I was happy with my settlement based on what I could afford. I will continue to Greg Fitzgerald and his services. Thank you Greg and Sam!
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Posted by Bob | June 29, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Settlement Case
I needed counsel in Southern California as I lived out of the area. Unfortunately I was a third party dragged into a debtor case by a non-attorney who knew her way around the Orange County Superior Court House. I tried to defend myself which failed as I didn't file in a timely manner. Greg worked with the creditor and helped achieve a satisfactory solution.
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Posted by anonymous | April 11, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Professional and Responsive
My business failed and I was pursued by 2 debtors for payment. Initially I hired a different attorney who failed to act or correspond. In frustration, I contacted Gregory Fitzgerald. My initial phone consult with him was both pleasant and professional. He treated me with understanding and respect. He clearly laid out what he could do and how he would proceed. I hired Mr Fitzgerald and am thankful I did. He, and his staff, are professional, responsive, and thorough. I actually hired his firm a second time for another issue and once again, I was not disappointed. His firm negotiated a reasonable settlement that was acceptable to me, and, his fees were exactly as he told me they would be. If you find yourself in what seems to be an impossible financial situation, I highly recommend contacting Gregory Fitzgerald.
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Posted by mike | January 28, 2016
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Thank you!
I had a past problem with American Express, and needed some advice. Not knowing were to turn to, I looked up Gregory Fitzgerald as he was recommended as an expert on judgements and settlements with credit card companies. I had talked with some other attorneys, but all they seemed interested in was to get my money as well!! I sure was glad I had found this law firm as not only was the office staff easy to work with, they were very timely and got to my case right away. Mr. Fitzgerald talked with me in length about my judgement and collections problems without making me feel rushed. He also answered many emails in a timely manner along the way. I really felt that I finally had someone in my corner to fight American Express. We just resolved this matter, so now I can move on with my life without worry what American Express will come after next, thanks to Gregory Fitzgerald!!!
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Posted by anonymous | January 8, 2016
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceeded my expectations
I had a financial thorn in my side for the past twelve years. I tried a number of times but wasn't able to find an attorney willing to help me with it. It came time to retire, but this one thorn still stung. So I hunted again for an attorney and came across the Fitzgerald Campbell website. They claimed to be able to do what the previous attorneys wouldn't do or said they couldn't do. They did as promised and exceeded my expectations. Considering my experience over the past twelve years, I feared they would never be able to get me a deal, but much to my surprise they were able to get me a good settlement. They were professional and followed through to the very end . They're well worth every penny, and I highly recommend them.
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Posted by anonymous | June 24, 2015
Excellent info and professionalism
Received a free consultation from him. That is something that you can be charged a ridiculous amount for. Will be following up and using his service. I already know it will be beneficial.
Posted by anonymous | June 19, 2015
Greg and his team did excellent work
Greg and his team did and excellent job on a matter that they resolved in a very short time frame to my satisfaction. He gave me expert counsel and his follow up was outstanding. When his staff got involved, they were professional and knowledgeable.
Posted by B & L | June 4, 2015
Very Pleased
Greg and his team did an amazing job by getting my husband's debt completely removed from his credit report. They have helped us achieve our dream of purchasing a home and we couldn't be more pleased. I recommend Greg and his team to anyone looking for debt relief.
Posted by Joanne | May 22, 2015
Helpful & Reassuring
I received a summons to court for an old debt. I couldn't afford to pay and so called Mr. Fitzgerald's office. His team put me at ease right away. They were able to settle out of court for an amount I could afford. It was way below the amount owed and now I don't need to worry about a judgement.
Posted by Michael | April 22, 2015
Big Savings (60%+) on Debt Collection Lawsuit Worst Case Scenario
Greg's approach to helping debtors who have the misfortune of being sued by debt collectors and bottom-feeding debt buyers is excellent and helpful. Instead of asking for his entire fee upfront for defending you against debt collection suits, he asks for a $500 down payment and $50 per month fee until a case is settled or dismissed. His contingency is 30% of the amount saved by his work, less whatever you have paid up to that point. This saved me almost $20,000 from what could have been a $27,000+ burden, plus annual interest of 10%, with a net savings of nearly 60% when both the settlement to make the debt buyer go away and his firm's fees are included. During the entire process, Greg and his staff kept me completely informed when things were filed in court, responses were received from the other side, and solid advice on strategy and negotiating the settlement with the debt buyer. I am grateful for his and his staff's help in my sticky matter.
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Posted by Richard | March 28, 2015
Grey Area -Solutions !
I had a unique situation wherein I am being sued by a major bank on credit card debt, and later the bank sold off the debt and the assigned creditor had subsequently filed suit against me. After the suit had been filed the original creditor/bank had submitted to me a 1099-C "Forgiveness of Debt". I reached out to Greg after reviewing one of his on line commentaries on this kind of baffling subject matter. -Having a pending law suit and potential judgement against me while also being liable for the tax consequence of forgiven debt. Essentially the creditor seeks to have their "cake and eat it too!." Greg was kind enough to arrange a telephonic consultation with me without any obligation and was able to quickly interpret my situation. He gave me some sound advice on the "grey area" of the law. Given Greg's expertise in this area he succinctly and most graciously provided me in layman terms with some legitimate defenses to hopefully give me a fighting chance in court. Should I choose to defend the case myself, I feel much more confident as a defendant armed with Greg's legal insight once I get before the judge to plead my case.
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Posted by Robin | March 22, 2015
A+++
On a $6,000 collection claim we consulted a half dozen attorneys who estimated our defense costs to be in the range of 3,500 to 4,500 dollars. Each recommended settling a claim we knew to be without merit. In a final effort we made a random call to Fitzgerald Campbell. That call could not have been more productive. F.C. took complete control of the case, which had already resulted in a judgment, and through plain hard work, achieved not only a set aside of the judgment, but in the end a complete dismissal of the case. Never in our wildest dreams did we expect such an outcome. Based on what we experienced, Fitzgerald Campbell has no peers.
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Posted by Sheraunda | March 10, 2015
Calvary SPV I, LLC-Debt Collector
I was being sued by Calvary SPV I, LLC for an amount of $3,618.00. I reached out to Fitzgerald Campbell's Law office. Greg Fitzgerald who I talked to for my initial consultation was very nice, and walked me through the process and gave me options as far as how the case was going to be handled. To make a long story short Greg and his team were able to settle my case down to $1,000, and that was wonderful!. They got on the case right away and informed me every step of the way through the whole process. I would highly recommend them, and most of all I felt they were sincerely concerned about me as a client, and that's a plus for me!.
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Posted by Rafel | March 3, 2015
Consumate Professional
Received a consult from Gregory. He called back right on time. His advice was logical, precise and most helpful. I would highly recommend Gregory to anyone seeking assistance in collections and legal matters. He was a consummate professional. His time was greatly appreciated. I would highly recommend Gregory for any collection matters.
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Posted by anonymous | February 19, 2015
Excellent Service
Mr. Fitzgerald handled my situation with professionalism and obtained a swift and welcomed outcome. If you ever need his type of service, I highly recommend Mr. Fitzgerald.
Posted by Patricia | January 13, 2015
Satisfaction of intimidating judgement....
My spouse and I had a several years old judgement that was getting in the way of our moving forward in financial savings and investments. I did all the research I could and had ideas of how to get the judgement off the credit report, but knew I needed help. I was wary about paying for lawyers, and nervous about being duped. However, everyone in the office was helpful, treated me as someone who was intelligent even if not fully aware of the legal languages this all takes, and moved quickly with a great savings for my spouse and I. Highly recommended.
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Cost

Rates
  • Free Consultation 30 minutes
  • Retainer Always
Payment methods
Cash, Check, Credit Card

Resume

AVVO RATING 7.8 (Very Good)

Work Experience

  • Partner
  • Fitzgerald Campbell
  • 2013 - Present
  • Attorney
  • The Seideman Law Firm, P.C
  • 2006 - 2013
  • Partner
  • Fitzgerald & Malk
  • 1998 - 2006
  • Judge Pro Tem
  • Orange County Court
  • 1996 - 2006
  • Partner
  • Fitzgerald & Associates
  • 1992 - 1998
View all work experience

Education

  • Southern California College of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1991
  • California Lutheran University
  • BS - Bachelor of Science
  • 1984

Legal Cases

  • TEAM vs. Granite State Insurance Company
  • $855,000 for TEAM

Associations

  • Orange County Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • San Bernardino Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present
  • Consumer Attorneys of California
  • Member
  • 2013 - Present

Languages Spoken

  • English
  • Spanish

Honors and Awards

  • Fastest Growing Lawfirm
  • Law Firm 500
  • 2020
  • Fastest Growing Lawfirm
  • Law Firm 500
  • 2019
  • Fastest Growing Lawfirm
  • Law Firm 500
  • 2018
  • Fastest Growing Law Frim
  • Law Firm 500
  • 2017
  • Best Business
  • Three Best Rated
  • 2017
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2016
  • Client's Choice
  • Avvo
  • 2015
View all awards

Publications

  • Attorney Journal
  • There's Always A Plan
  • 2018
  • Expert Press
  • The Bankruptcy Alternative
  • 2018
  • The Get Out of Debt Guy
  • The King of Zombie Debt: the 1099-C
  • 2011
View all publications

Attorney endorsements

Received (6)
Given (1)
Endorse Gregory
Criminal defense Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Worked for lawyer
"I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Highly respected in legal community. Responses are clear and complete. Fabulous credentials. Demonstrates a thorough understanding of BK law."
Criminal defense Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse Gregory. He is a highly skilled attorney that is well respected in the legal community."
Unknown Attorney | Dec 14
Relationship: Other
"I am very impressed with Gregory Fitzgerald and his credentials. I endorse this attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Oct 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 10
Relationship: Co-worker
"Greg Fitzgerald's expertise and overall knowledge of the law in Consumer Debt Defense, FDCPA, Personal Injury and Criminal Defense is certainly at a high level. Greg Fitzgerald knows how to get results for clients and always conducts himself like a professional."
View more endorsements
Criminal defense