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Lisa Jane Espada

Debt collection Attorney at San Francisco, CA

5.0   43 reviews

also known as Lisa J. Espada

  • Licensed for 23 years
    State CA
    Acquired 1999
    Status
    Active No misconduct found

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

About Lisa

Learn Lisa’s areas of practice.

4
Practice areas
  1. Debt collection
    60%
    I represent consumers, student borrowers and small business owners who are sued by creditors or debt buyers. Most cases are dismissed or settled without the need to take the case to trial.

    12 years

  2. Consumer protection
    15%
    Litigation on behalf of plaintiffs, for violations of the federal Fair Debt Collection Practices Act, the California Fair Debt Buying Practices Act, the California Identity Theft Statute, the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, and others.

    11 years

  3. Litigation
    15%
    General civil litigation including limited-scope representation and providing advice to "pro per" litigants.

    23 years

  4. Chapter 7 bankruptcy
    10%
    I represent clients in chapter 7 bankruptcy cases filed in the Northern District of California

    12 years

Contact Lisa

Similar lawyers nearby

Law Office of Lisa J Espada
100 Pine St., Suite 1250
Suite 400
San Francisco, CA, 94111

Reviews

5.0 / 5.0
  43 customer reviews
5 Star
 
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Posted by anonymous | August 31, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Simply the best!! Highly recommend Lisa!
Lisa is a phenomenal bankruptcy lawyer. Her deep expertise in bankruptcy law and her warm and nonjudgmental nature made this challenging time for me much more positive and manageable. Legal paperwork can be intimidating, and the shame and guilt that come along with taking the first step to recover from financial turmoil can be a huge hurdle to overcome emotionally and mentally. However, Lisa was always patient when I needed to take breaks from the whole process, met me where I was at, addressed all my concerns, and put me at ease. With Lisa as your advocate, you'll not only find yourself sharing her name with friends and family but also seeking her expertise in other areas of law. In a field where technical expertise and compassion intersect, Lisa shines as a true beacon of legal excellence.
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Posted by anonymous | August 18, 2023
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
LISA ESPADA IS A GREAT LAWYER THAT GOT ME RESULTS I WANTED.
LISA ESPADA IS A GREAT LAWYER THAT GOT ME RESULTS I WANTED. I hired Lisa as my lawyer to represent me in a credit card debt case in San Francisco City and County in OCTOBER 2022 after being served with the paperwork of the lawsuit. I had a credit card debt of over $20,000 with US BANK. US BANK had sold my credit card debt to a collections company called ABSOLUTE RESOLUTIONS. ABSOLUTE RESOLUTIONS couldn't collect any money from me. Then, ABSOLUTE RESOLUTIONS hired the NELSON & KENNARD law firm to sue me to collect the debt. Once I got the notice I was being sued, I called around to 3 lawyers specializing in PERSONAL CREDIT CARD DEBT. There are NOT many lawyers in the San Francisco Bay Area that SPECIALIZES IN PERSONAL CREDIT CARD DEBT. One lawyer I spoke with kept telling me that he couldn't get the lawsuit dismissed and would do his best to settle my credit card debt for about 50%. I wanted a lawyer that would fight for me and just not settle, so I didn't hire him. Another law firm used assistants and told me the best results would also be settling the debt. I wanted to be in direct contact with my lawyer, not just assistants. I didn't hire that law firm. The final lawyer I spoke with was LISA ESPADA. Lisa does everything on her own, no assistants. I spoke with Lisa directly, and she answered all my questions. I felt comfortable and at ease when I spoke with Lisa. Lisa did NOT pressure me to hire her as a lawyer as other lawyers did. I told Lisa this was my first lawsuit against me for credit card debt. Lisa was fabulous with communication. She told me what was happening and what was going to happen next. Lisa told me what she was going to do and did it. Lisa kept her word and was honest about everything. I like that about her. The fact that I knew what was going to happen kept me calm, not anxious, and not worried. The process was about 8 months from when I personally got served the paperwork lawsuit (OCTOBER 2022) until when my lawsuit was dismissed (MAY 2023). In the end, I did NOT have to pay ABSOLUTE RESOLUTIONS OR THE NELSON & KENNARD LAW FIRM ANYTHING, NOT A PENNY. LISA FOUGHT FOR ME AND GOT THE CASE DISMISSED, NOT JUST SETTLE FOR A LESSER AMOUNT. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND LISA ESPADA IF YOU ARE LOOKING FOR A LAWYER TO REPRESENT YOU IN A PERSONAL CREDIT CARD DEBT LAWSUIT.
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Posted by Tim | January 30, 2023
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great help
Lisa confirmed my assumptions in regards to access to a copy of my trust, mine being lost in a house fire, from my bank who has a copy.. much help, thank you Lisa
Posted by Joe | August 18, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent attorney!
Ms. Espada represented me in a very frustrating and complicated legal matter with the utmost expertise, professionalism, tenacity, and communication. She obtained a totally positive, excellent result for me. I am so grateful for her help, and I couldn't have had a better experience with a lawyer in my matter. I can't recommend Lisa enough!
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Posted by anonymous | May 14, 2022
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
2 out 2!
I went to Ms. Espada with my debt collection twice and all of them are solved right away! I highly recommend Ms. Espada!
Posted by Jeren | August 12, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Lawyer!
Although negative, her concrete and confident response saved me time, trouble, and uncertainty. She is great!
Posted by anonymous | June 4, 2021
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Very thorough
Lisa provides very caring and detailed advice when other attorneys don't offer even a hint of interest. I'm very appreciative of Lisa's talent and expertise.
Posted by Brittney | November 19, 2020
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
WONDERFUL consultation
I requested a consultation via phone from Ms. Espada in July 2020 to ask a few questions about Bankruptcy and Debt Collection. She went above and beyond, answering all my questions very knowledgeably. I felt extremely confident in her experience of the field and if I needed to pursue the issues legally, I would not hesitate to hire Ms. Espada. Her kindness and knowledge in just our consult blew me out of the water.
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Posted by William | December 16, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Lisa is amazing! Highly recommended!
I contacted Lisa after days of reaching out to lawyers to defend me in a student loan dispute. She generously devoted her time to get all of the details from me to ensure she would be able to help me with the case. I felt very comfortable moving forward with her due to the fact that she was very honest and straightforward throughout the process. Lisa went above and beyond to help me and I would recommend her services to anyone in a similar situation.
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Posted by anonymous | December 13, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Highly Effective
Attorney Lisa Espada is extremely knowledgeable of state and federal laws, responsive to inquiries, and bold in taking on complex cases. I hired this lawyer for a civil case and won. Thank you Lisa!
Posted by Robert | August 24, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Great Brainstorm Partner
I am business consultant for senior management of technology companies and understanding the essential realities I am operating in is paramount to advising and putting together a process of decision making and actions to any endeavor that could mean millions of dollars in revenue or loss. With this in mind, a friend of mine needed assistance in her financial situation and challenges with creditors. I was provided a long list of California lawyers who specializes in this field and did my due diligence through research and one on one conversations. I have to admit, there is a wide range of competency and effective engagement in this field. Lisa stood out far above most attorneys I spoke with. I agreed with the many reviews often about Lisa. The skill I currently appreciate most about Lisa is her ability to be a great brainstorm partner in all the complexities that one can face, both personally and legally. I strongly recommend you speak with Lisa if you or a friend is in need of wise and grounded counsel!
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Posted by anonymous | May 19, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Great Lawyer
This was my first time needing a lawyer and Lisa was great. At first she just consulted me on my case and the necessary steps. After going back and forth with the attorneys who was suing me, I decided to hire Lisa. She walked me thru my case and filed the necessary paperwork. We were able to settle my case for less than what they were asking. I'm so glad I hired Lisa! She definitely took a big load off my shoulders.
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Posted by Ann | May 6, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Outstanding guidance
Lisa Espada represented me in a debt collection matter. Her experience in these kinds of cases was invaluable, as she knew when and how to respond to all of the plaintiff's moves. I ended up settling the case for much less than I had ever hoped, and I am so grateful for her sound advice and excellent representation.
Posted by Nicole Jackson | May 5, 2019
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Terrific Lawyer!!
Great lawyer, took my case 2 months before trials and we won. Made sure every documentation was in order, took her time with me and my case. I will tell every one to hire her she is the best.
Posted by anonymous | May 3, 2019
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Debt collection lawsuit
Lisa answered my question immediately that were relevant and helpful. Thank you for giving me some legal answers. If I were to hire an attorney for this issue - I would give her a call.
Posted by Ori | December 5, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Excellent lawyer
I asked Lisa to look into my student loan issue after she had replied on my question on AVVO. She is very professional. I was in a stressful situation but Lisa did some investigating and really calmed me down, explaining few things I wasn't aware of. Would def recommend.
Posted by anonymous | November 15, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Clear, concise response from Lisa
Great response to my question. Clear and concise. Excellent professional demeanor. Will recommend to my friends in the Bay Area. Thank you Lisa!
Posted by Nick | August 4, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Amazing Debt Defense Attorney!
I reached out to Lisa in response to calls from an aggressive debt collector that had filed a complaint against me from a debt that was almost a decade old. Lisa quickly helped calm me down (I was freaking out over the cost of a lawsuit), and acted to respond to the complaint. We were able to get the issue resolved quickly thanks to her expertise!
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Posted by Jeremy | August 3, 2018
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
| Hired Attorney
Exceptionally skilled, effective, and easy to work with
I hired Lisa when a debt-buyer filed a lawsuit against me. She did excellent work on my case from the first phone call to the final resolution -- which was 100% in my favor. Her communication style is professional and direct, but also friendly and very down-to-earth, and she turned a confusing and stressful situation into one that seemed clear and manageable. She thoroughly explained the situation, her approach to handling it, and my various options, all of which helped me make informed decisions and take action with confidence. Her work not only led to the best possible outcome for me, I felt throughout that she genuinely had my best interests at heart. This was the first time I'd had to hire an attorney and I couldn't have been more satisfied with the experience. Lisa gets my highest possible recommendation.
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Posted by Ruth | April 6, 2018
This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
| Consulted Attorney
Extremely knowledgeable and caring
This was the 2nd time I had the pleasure to interact with Lisa. She responded to an additional concern I had while assisting a friend on a motion to vacate a default judgment. Lisa took the time to explain things in a very sensical way. I am very grateful she is a committed member of AVVO and is dedicated to helping people. Thank you again Lisa.
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Cost

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

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

  • Attorney
  • Law Office of Lisa J. Espada
  • 2012 - Present
  • Associate
  • Levin Simes Kaiser & Gornick, LLP
  • 2004 - 2011
  • Associate
  • Brayton Purcell, LLP
  • 2002 - 2004
  • Associate
  • Paul & Hanley, LLP
  • 2000 - 2002
View all work experience

Education

  • Golden Gate University School of Law
  • JD - Juris Doctor
  • 1999
  • San Francisco State University
  • BA - Bachelor of Arts
  • 1993

Associations

  • National Association of Consumer Advocates (NACA)
  • Member
  • 2015 - Present
  • Queen's Bench Bar Association
  • Member
  • 2012 - Present
  • National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
  • Member
  • 2012 - 2016
  • San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association
  • Member
  • 2002 - 2012
View all associations

Languages Spoken

  • English

Honors and Awards

  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2018
  • Justice and Diversity Center
  • 2019
  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2017
  • Justice and Diversity Center
  • 2018
  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2016
  • Justice and Diversity Center
  • 2017
  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2015
  • Justice and Diversity Center
  • 2016
  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2014
  • Justice and Diversity Center
  • 2015
  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2013
  • Justice and Diversity Center
  • 2014
  • Outstanding Volunteer Attorney 2012
  • Bar Association of San Francisco
  • 2013
View all awards

Speaking Engagements

  • Consumer Project Volunteer Training Program
  • Pre-Trial Litigation in Consumer Debt Cases
  • 2017
  • Consumer Debt Defense Roundtable
  • Statute of Limitations Issues in Debt Collection Cases
  • 2015

Attorney endorsements

Received (20)
Given (6)
Endorse Lisa
Debt collection Attorney | Feb 12
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Her answers to questions posted on Avvo are consistently brilliant in the fields of bankruptcy, debt collection, consumer law and litigation."
Litigation Attorney | Oct 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"The answers of Ms. Espada are consistently accurate, analytic, and customized to the needs of the Avvo askers. These are exactly the qualities that every client would look for when hiring an attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Mar 17
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"An excellent lawyer who treats clients with patience, care, understanding, and utmost professionalism - an even better person and I wholeheartedly recommend for future services."
Litigation Attorney | Mar 05
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. The highest quality attorney."
Unknown Attorney | Sep 29
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Feb 06
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Espada provides a much needed service on Avvo. She donates her time to individuals who are in need of immediate legal answers."
Debt collection Attorney | Apr 25
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Lisa is an excellent lawyer who always works hard for her clients. She is knowledgeable and a tireless advocate. You are in good hands with Lisa."
Litigation Attorney | Apr 09
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I refer clients to Lisa because she gets excellent results for her clients. I endorse this lawyer."
Litigation Attorney | Mar 28
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Lisa works hard for her clients, and consumers in general. California consumers are lucky to have her. I endorse this lawyer."
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Jan 27
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Ms. Espada is a very effective and knowledgeable advocate for her clients."
Unknown Attorney | Nov 03
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
Debt collection Attorney | Oct 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Lisa Espada is an experienced collection defense attorney who fights for her clients. I am proud to endorse Ms. Espada."
Debt collection Attorney | Apr 12
Relationship: Other
"Although attorney Espada practices on the other side of my principal focus of law practice, her answers on Avvo show a thorough, but balanced, approach to the inquiries posted. I endorse this lawyer."
Unknown Attorney | Jul 23
Relationship: Co-worker
"Lisa Espada is an intelligent and skilled attorney. I would not hesitate to refer clients to her."
Unknown Attorney | Jun 24
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"Top-notch attorney."
Sexual harassment Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter
"Ms. Espada is an excellent attorney and anyone who hires her is lucky to have her in their corner fighting for them!"
Litigation Attorney | Feb 05
Relationship: Supervised lawyer
"I endorse Lisa Espada. She is an experienced and skilled litigator with whom I have worked. She excels at communicating with clients, opposing attorneys and the Court. Her knowledge and application of the law is excellent. Lisa is the consumate professional."
Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney | Jan 26
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer. Attorney Espada is an outstanding attorney with an exceptional reputation. She is a strong and zealous advocate for her clients and is a credit to the legal profession. I highly recommend her legal services."
Personal injury Attorney | Jan 15
Relationship: Co-worker
"I endorse this lawyer. Lisa is hard working, very smart, and cares deeply about her clients. I highly recommend her."
Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 14
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community
"I endorse this lawyer."
View more endorsements
Bankruptcy and debt
Debt collection
Debt collection
Litigation
Criminal defense
Chapter 7 bankruptcy