Licensed for 25 years

State CA

Acquired 1998

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

Michael Frederick Cardoza

Identity theft Attorney at San Francisco, CA

About
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Reviews
Cost
Resume

A wonderful lawyer that anybody would need at some point in their life

Outstanding!

About Michael

Learn Michael’s areas of practice.

Practice areas

Identity theft

35%

You DON'T have to pay when someone steals your identity! Find out more about powerful ID Theft laws that protect you and can make these "debts" and credit reporting errors go away.
Credit repair

30%

Are your credit report disputes going nowhere? You may be entitled to a speedy fix AND compensation! Send me your disputes and your credit reports for a Free Case Evaluation.
Consumer protection

20%

We understand how powerless when your credit score is impacted by an error or your life is turned upside down due to identity theft. Laws are in place to help you reclaim your financial well-being—we're here to help.
... Read more
Military law

10%

Servicemembers: You have special Civil Rights that are often violated by banks, landlords, lenders, debt collectors, mortgage banks, and homeowner's associations - among others. Find out about how you might be especially protected!
... Read more
Debt collection

5%

Fight Back against Debt Collection Harassment! If Debt Collectors do the wrong thing, you might be entitled to compensation and to have your debt erased. If something feels wrong, it just might be - so check it our for free!
... Read more

FIGHT BACK AND DON'T LET IDENTITY THIEVES, CREDIT BUREAUS, OR ANY OTHER BUSINESS RIP YOU OFF!

I grew up in the San Francisco Bay Area, joined the Marine Corps and then went to law school. After my active duty time as a trial attorney, I became a senior executive in the debt buying and collections industry on the East Coast. I spent 7 years buying and collecting debts and even running a law firm that collected consumer debt exclusively. I know all the tricks.

I founded The Cardoza Law Corporation to bring the truth to consumers and help you get what you deserve from illegal debt collectors, credit reporting agencies, robo-callers, and businesses that just plain rip you off! You don't have to take it. The laws are on your side and all you have to do is get a free evaluation to see if you have a case that I can litigate for you for no money down. Most people have shame and guilt about a bad financial situation - don't. Illegal debt collection happens every day - it could be happening to you and you don't even know it!

In some cases, clients of The Cardoza Law Corporation may agree to be liable for costs and/or pay fees on an hourly, flat, or contingent basis. The information on this advertising website is not intended to serve as legal advice or as a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of any particular legal matter. Visiting this site does not constitute the formation of an attorney/client relationship or the establishment of any other type of agreement that implies that legal representation has been offered or accepted.

Awards

Client's Choice

2021 2020 2019 + 3 ...

Top Contributor

2019 2018 2016 + 1 ...

Photos and videos

Contact Michael

The Cardoza Law Corporation

548 Market St # 80594

San Francisco, CA, 94104

www.cardozalawcorp.com

Chat Now Get Directions

Reviews

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4.9 / 5.0

74 customer reviews

5 Star

96%

4 Star

3 Star

2 Star

1 Star

Client's Choice

Client's Choice is an Avvo award granted to attorneys with a significant number of client reviews over 4 stars in a given year.

Posted by Olivia | February 1, 2019

A wonderful lawyer that anybody would need at some point in their life

Mike is extremely patient in listening to your case and will give you the best advice he can based on the existing law and his experience. It eliminates a lot of confusion over the situation and you get this from him for free. It is not often that you meet someone so sympathetic and helpful when you need his advise the most.

Posted by Chris | September 20, 2018

Outstanding!

Mike was kind, compassionate, knowledgeable and took an interest in learning the facts of my case before he made an assessment. He was willing to take the time to listen with an open mind. It was clear he enjoys helping people and he was very thoughtful when recommending the best approach for me. As you search for people to help you with your case, I would urge you to call Mike now! He also has a fantastic support team and great tools to help ease the struggle when you need to be heard.

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Posted by anonymous | September 13, 2022

Awesome Lawyer

Mike was very knowledgeable and accommodating person. He is expert on his line of work!

Posted by Elena Lancefield | May 6, 2022

Need to repair your credit?

On a clear score, my credit was less than 463, and I was slightly skeptical but decided to give this an opportunity. R E M O T E R E P A I R a t C L E R K d o t C O M has done more than fix my credit. He has helped me better my knowledge of credit opportunities. I will refer him to any of my friends or family with any bit of credit discrepancies. I am now ready to continue improving my score and not worry about getting approved for the things I want and need in life

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Response from Michael Cardoza June 17, 2022

Elena - I don't know who you are and I don't endorse your credit repair scheme.

Posted by Conqueror | July 14, 2021

The Cardoza Winning Strategy

If you want to win and be happy, give your case to this team. They are very proficient and would make your wait worth it. I love the result. Thanks Mike and your team

Posted by anonymous | July 14, 2021

I needed help and information about possible identity theft. Mike advised me of actions I should take to secure bank accounts, credit, etc.. that may have been compromised, that I hadn't thought about. I'm taking these precautions until I'm sure if anything has actually happened. If I see any activity, I have him on speed dial. He's very easy to talk to, listens. Thanks for the advice, Mike. Stay safe.

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Posted by Nicole | July 6, 2021

Very Nice Attorney

Mr. Cardoza was very friendly and professional. He provided very helpful information and offered his assistance if I needed it in the future. I would definitely recommend him to others.

Posted by Veronica | March 25, 2021

Amazing

The Cardoza Law Firm did above and beyond amazing service. They kept me updated on every part of my case. Friendly and very professional.

Posted by Alexandros | March 4, 2021

Credit Report Error Resolved

I spent most of my life with no credit score. I avoided credit cards and debt. At some point Kimball Tirey & St. John LLP began reporting a debt for me. This gave me a credit score, and a bad one at that. I didn’t notice until a few years after they began reporting the debt, and by then my score was in the 500s. This wasn’t my debt. I tried contacting Kimball Tirey & St. John over phone, email, and mail, but I couldn’t get a response from them. I then turned to The Cardoza Law Corporation, and entered into contract with them July 2020. It is now March 2021, and with The Cardoza Law Corporation’s help the inaccurate debt has been removed from my report.

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Posted by anonymous | February 18, 2021

Highly recommend/ Great Attorney!

Atty Mike Cardoza and his team( Lauren Veggian, Samuel Albert ) are very helpful, honest and knowledgeable. He made the process easier and gave me peace of mind. You explained everything and gave helpful information. I would highly recommend him! Thanks again.

Response from Michael Cardoza February 18, 2021

Thank YOU for being such an enthusiastic part of the process - you really helped all of us!

Posted by De-Ann | February 11, 2021

PROFESSIONALISM, A TOP NOTCH TEAM

I highly recommend Mike Cardoza Law Corporations. After the initial consultation and case verfication reviews by the firm I compiled all necessary documents. Then I scanned all evidence and was able to complete each entire task remotely via email. Mike Cardoza Law Corporation has represented my rights and assisted in repairing my credibility with all three credit reporting agencies TransUnion, Equifax, and Experian. My guidance was by way of the impeccable Sam Albert A Paralegal who's attention to details never failed. Sam Albert@CardozaLaw conducted his responsibilities seamlessly, and definitely delivered *(Expidiate Quality Expertise)* with all aspects associated with the whole process of my IDENTITY THEFT and CREDIT REPAIR. Sam's expertise is his own brilliant mind no doubt, but Sam's goals (set the stage) that show cased the entire TEAM of MIKE CARDOZA LAW CORPORATION. The ultimate RESULTS garnered speak volumes. To be clear, My endorsement is 100% truthful so help me God. I am grateful Mike Cardoza Law.

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Posted by Avelina | December 1, 2020

Credit Card Fraud

I repeatedly got denied by a credit card company regarding my claims for fraudulent charges on my card. For months, I was so stressed and so full of tension that hopelessness has always been on my side till one day, I consulted with Atty. Mike Cardoza, he listened and took my case. The very PROFESSIONALISM as well as the DEDICATION that Atty. Mike Cardoza possesses made me actually feel again and again that he was really the perfect choice! He gave me hope and confidence throughout my ordeal! I definitely would recommend Atty. Mike Cardoza to anyone I know that needs his expertise. Indeed an EXCELLENT lawyer. Thank you Atty. Mike Cardoza, Samuel Albert from the bottom of my heart!!!

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Posted by Lucy | October 23, 2020

Best Consultation Ever!

We had lots of questions. Mike listened patiently and answered all my questions. I felt at ease explaining our financial troubles. Mike had so much knowledge and advice. He guided us in the right direction. There was no pressure at all to hire him. The best consultation I have ever had!

Posted by Scott Lydon | September 25, 2020

Excellent

Mike Cardoza and the Cardoza law firm handled my credit smear cases excellently. We won. Just as importantly, Mike was professional, honest, responsive and I could tell he consistently had my back. He took my interests and concerns seriously. Additionally, his processes were streamlined, and his staff members were clear communicators which made the entire process significantly easier than it could have been. While case-related information was definitely needed from me, it was more of a go about my life and wait for the good news experience than a constant scramble for repeat or arbitrary information.

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Posted by Mike | September 12, 2020

Life saver!! The best

Very helpful. I was looking for an attorney for a long time and I found Mike Cardoza and he helped me when other attorneys were asking me for a consultation fee. Other attorneys were not helpful and they were not informative. Thank you Mike!! UPDATE: The outcome of my case was unexpected. Unexpected would be a total understatement. I never would have thought that he would get everything erased and monetary compensation. Mike is great! As a person just a solid human being. Him being a marine gave me so much security when talking to him. He's so to the point but explains everything so kindly. Not like any, ANY other lawyers. He calls you personally and his team is great!! He changed my life! Thank you very much!!

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Posted by Monica | August 12, 2020

Exceptional Law Firm: Cardoza Law

I had a recurring identity theft problem where a creditor kept contacting me to pay a bill that wasn’t mine and would not cancel the debt despite my proof. I was frustrated and lost. A colleague recommended a consumer protection attorney, but that attorney was too busy to take my case and referred me to another firm. The second attorney was relatively unresponsive and seemed uninterested. So, I searched for another lawyer myself. I am grateful to all of the clients of Cardoza Law who took the time to post their rave reviews. Those reviews encouraged me to contact Mike Cardoza, and now I can write my own rave review. Mike contacted me the same day I reached out to him. He was comforting, compassionate, confident, and clear. His understanding, advice, and instruction were comprehensive, smart, and quick. I felt lucky to have him, and his excellent team members Lauren and Sam, on my side. They helped me resolve my haunting identity theft problem once and for all. The folks at Cardoza Law are truly exceptional.

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Posted by Foster | August 5, 2020

Family law and credit consulting

Mike and his associates are exceptional at what they do. Mike helped me with a child support issue that other attorneys ignored. Him and his staff were the epitome of professional and a team I could call family. He’s down to earth and understands your problem. I would consider the Cardoza law firm an asset and have no doubt I’ll call him if I should need any other legal assistance.

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Posted by Tyler | May 18, 2020

Calmed my nerves immensely

Called Mike about trouble with collectors because the internet can easily overwhelm you with information on how to approach them. He provided clarity on my situation and provided me with realistic outcomes - super grateful I talked to him.

Posted by Leslie | May 18, 2020

The Cardoza Law Firm - Excellent!

I would highly recommend anyone needing legal help with Identity Theft and/or Credit Repair, to seek the help of Michael Cardoza/Cordoza Law Firm. From the moment I contacted them, Michael Cardoza and staff have been very proactive, attentive and dedicated to helping me. I contacted them for help with credit repair after being a victim of identity theft, and with their assistance we were able to get quick/timely results on issues that I had been frustrated with and struggling to resolve on my own for over a year. Also, his legal assistant (Samuel) is amazing. Overall, the level of customer service I have recd. has been excellent, and I would highly recommend The Cordoza Law Firm to anyone in need of this type of legal advice or help!

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Posted by Nick | May 7, 2020

Knowledgeable and generous with his time.

I consulted with him on the phone and he was very generous with his time and cordial. Gave me good advice and steered me away from getting into a unnecessary legal situation. Thank you.

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Staff Judge Advocate (Reserve)
U.S. Marine Forces Pacific
2014 - Present

Executive VP for Finance, Operations & Transformation
Dominion Law Associates, PLLC
2013 - 2014

Chief Executive Officer
Providence Dane, LLC
2007 - 2014

Education

Georgetown University Law Center
JD - Juris Doctor
1997

University of California - Los Angeles
BA - Bachelor of Arts
1993

Legal Cases

Debt Collection Action for Alleged Rental Car Damage
DEBT DISMISSED

Associations

Federal Bar Association
Member
2015 - Present

The Judge Advocates Association American Inn of Court
Member
2015 - Present

United States Supreme Court
Member
2010 - Present

Veterans of Foreign Wars
Lifetime Member
2010 - Present

State Bar of California
Member
1998 - Present

Consumer Financial Services Committee of the California Lawyer's Association
Co-chair
2021 - 2022

ACA International
Member
2009 - 2014

Debt Buyers Association
Member
2008 - 2012

Maryland / DC Creditor's Bar Association
Member
2008 - 2014

National Association of Retail Collection Attorneys
Member
2007 - 2014

Virginia Creditors Bar Association
Technology Committee Chairman
2007 - 2014

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Honors and Awards

Client Rating
Martindale-Hubbell
2022

Peer Rated Review
Martindale-Hubbell
2022

Client Rating
Martindale-Hubbell
2021

Peer Review Rated
Martindale-Hubbell
2021

Client Rating
Martindale-Hubbell
2020

Marine Corps Reserve Outstanding Career Attorney
The Judge Advocates Association
2015

Meritorious Service Medal
U.S. Department of Defense
2012

View all awards

Publications

Word Association Publishers; 1st edition
The Secret World of Debt Collection: Beat Collectors at Their Own Game - a Former Collections Executive Reveals How
2015

United States Agency For International Development
"Business Climate Legal and Institutional Reform Diagnostic: Pakistan's Agenda For Action" (Employing Workers)
2007

United States Agency For International Development
"Afghanistan's Agenda for Action - Developing the Trade & Business Environment" (Competition Law and Policy, Foreign Direct Investment)
2007

Speaking Engagements

Ocean 98 Rude Awakening Morning Show
Consumer Debt Collection
2015

Interview with Cyrus Webb on Conversations Live Radio
Consumer Finance and Credit Reporting
2015

Author Story with Alexander Lim
Consumer Debt & Robo Calls
2015

Attorney endorsements

Received (23)

Given (47)

Endorse Michael

Colby Vokey

Debt collection Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

"Mike Cardoza is one of the most competent and zealous lawyers I have ever met. A fierce and aggressive trial lawyer. Mike has also become the foremost expert in the United States in debt collection. You combine these two together and you get a hell of a lawyer fighting for American citizens against abusive debt collectors. I endorse this lawyer."

Scott Kaufman

Unknown Attorney | Aug 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I serve as California co-chair for the prestigious National Association of Consumer Advocates. I've met and seen in action attorneys all throughout these United States. It's difficult for me to recall seeing anyone with the energy, drive and passion that Mike brings to consumer protection law. You'd be hard pressed to find a better person anywhere to handle your matter."

Ian Chowdhury

Consumer protection Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike Cardoza truly knows the debt collection industry inside-out, and knows how to effectively use that knowledge to the advantage of his consumer clients. If you are being harassed by debt collectors, are suffering from improper credit reporting or are a victim of ID theft, you would be very fortunate indeed to have Mr. Cordoza champion your cause!"

Gary Fraley

Consumer protection Attorney | Jun 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mike for several years. He is usually at the National Association of Bankruptcy Attorneys annual convention except this year because it was cancelled due to COVID-19. He is the best attorney in the field of Consumer Law. He is so good that I have referred clients to him for consumer law litigation. Mike does the job right. That is why I can fully and without hesitation endorse him."

David Ashe

Consumer protection Attorney | Jul 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"When it comes to consumer law, Mike knows the inner workings of every part of the collection industry. That's why he wins for his clients. That, and his commitment to health and fitness."

John Watts

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

"I met Michael a few years ago at a seminar and I was impressed with his knowledge and character. Since then I've seen the good work he has done helping consumers who are dealing with debt collectors (and other consumer issues). I recommend you check out his information -- he shares a ton online -- and then contact his office to get honest guidance. He'll tell you the truth about your situation and then you can make your own decision. John Watts"

Theodore Schofner

Consumer protection Attorney | Nov 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike is the expert in all legal matters relating to Creditor Harassment and unfair debt collection tactics . He is extremely professional, ethical and competent. I refer cases to him without hesitation. I am honored to endorse Mike Cardoza."

Benjamin Glass

Debt collection Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"If you have a debt collection or credit reporting problem I strongly recommend that you reach out to Mike. His website is filled with useful information and at the time I'm making this recommendation he has a terrific 133 second video that will get you started. Very few lawyers give away this much useful information!"

Wayne Sinnett

Consumer protection Attorney | Jul 11
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike Cardoza is an incredibly smart consumer protection attorney and If you're being hassled by debt collectors he should be your first call."

Neill Wente

Consumer protection Attorney | May 07
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Mr. Cardoza is a thorough and personable attorney who works hard to get the job done for his clients. I have worked with on numerous projects in the past and always enjoyed working with him."

Andrei Armas

Consumer protection Attorney | Mar 23
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Michael is one of the most knowledgeable, hardworking attorneys in the community. He is very passionate about his work and very dedicated to his clients. Without a doubt - I would recommend him to anyone seeking counsel on consumer protection matters!"

Derek Diaz

Class action Attorney | Mar 21
Relationship: Co-worker

"Mike Cardoza has a brilliant legal mind that I would turn to if I ever needed to hire my own lawyer. His clients have always raved about his tireless efforts to promote their interests and to protect their rights. I enthusiastically endorse Mike Cardoza."

Hermin Dowe

Consumer protection Attorney | Mar 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mr. Cardoza is a dedicated, caring professional who is striving for excellence. He is a credit to the legal profession and a great person as well."

Brian Bouffard

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Aug 19
Relationship: Co-worker

"As smart and ethical as they come, there simply is NO BETTER LAWYER in this practice area than Mike Cardoza. I've known Mike for years since we were on active duty together at Camp Pendleton. He has always impressed me with his heart, his judgment, and his peerless skills as an attorney. I can say without hesitation that if I or a loved one needed an attorney, I would look no further. I enthusiastically recommend Mike!"

Mark Clay

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Aug 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Mr. Cardoza. He is a truly asset to our legal community. Very helpful on AVVO and a great expert in the field."

Andrew Hull

Consumer protection Attorney | Aug 10
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I enthusiastically endorse Mike Cardoza for consumer protection, bankruptcy and debt, credit repair and related fields. I have known Mike for over 20 years. His integrity and dedication to clients is second to none. Mike is a fearless and zealous advocate for his clients, and literally wrote the book on how to beat debt collectors at their own game: http://www.amazon.com/Secret-World-Debt-Collection-Game--ebook/dp/B00XK3ETNS/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1439227043&sr=1-1&keywords=mike+cardoza. If you are in need of a strong defender of your rights in the world of debt collection and consumer protection, run, don't walk, to Mike Cardoza."

Megan Troy

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"You want this man as your lawyer! No matter what your problem -- debt collectors, credit repair, consumer protection, or bankruptcy and debt issues -- Mike Cardoza excels at them all. I have known Mike for over 20 years and never have I met a more dedicated, intelligent, and hard-working attorney. Mike will fight for you, and win. I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer."

Aaron Shields

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 21
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I have known Mike for over 25 years. He has always impressed me with his ability to zealously tackle any issue and to resolve matters with a positive outcome. I would not hesitate to recommend Mike to my friends and family and that is testament to his integrity and skill."

Matthew Haltom

Consumer protection Attorney | Jul 16
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"No one is a more zealous and competent advocate for consumer protection issues. Mike is an excellent attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Reza Torkzadeh

Consumer protection Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Mike is an asset to the community. He is the go-to lawyer for consumer protection matters and is a passionate advocate. I've come to know Mike over the past few years and his legal abilities, knowledge of the law and personality make him my number one choice. I strongly endorse this lawyer."

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Barkley Smith

Consumer protection