Licensed for 15 years

State CA

Acquired 2007

Status
Active No misconduct found

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

Carl Richard Gustafson

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney at Pleasant Hill, CA

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Student Loan Discharge

Amazing lawyer and team

This was the first time I filed for bankruptcy and for a first timer, I thought it'd be difficult and thought it would be scary. Carl and the Lincoln Law team were always available for me to ask them questions along with guide me through the process making it easier on my end. The use of text message and phone calls were very helpful in making sure documentation/information on the matter were told to me in a timely manner before deadlines were due. Thank you Carl and the Lincoln Law team for helping me out on my bankruptcy!

About Carl

Learn Carl’s areas of practice.

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Carl R. Gustafson is a Certified Bankruptcy Law Specialist with the California Board of Legal Specialization! In 2003, Carl graduated from UCLA Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelors in History. In 2005, he was a legal intern for Global Justice in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where he drafted sections of human rights situation reports and submitted them to the United Nations and other international bodies. He also researched issues of international jurisdiction and the enforcement of international treaties. Carl went on to graduate with honors from the University of California, Berkeley School of Law in 2007, where he was also an associate editor for the Ecological Law Quarterly. It was Carl's yearning to right wrongs and preventing injustice that made law his calling. When Carl lived in Brazil he enjoyed the sights and playing pickup sports on the beach, but he was also witness to a cold reality: one of corruption and injustice. Carl has a passion for consumer rights. "It made me angry to see people get ripped off," said Carl. "I feel like we are hitting the big guys. We are punching back and making them pay for all the bets they thought they wouldn't get caught in." The confidence and ease of Carl is born of experience that is well beyond his years. He started working with bankruptcy in 2003 when he graduated from UCLA. Carl opened the Lincoln Law California offices and focuses his practice exclusively on bankruptcy law in the East Bay area. In August 2011, Carl was a presenter panelist on Practising Law Institute's seminar and webcast "Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Its Value and How It Benefits Low-Income Debtors."

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New Extended Customer Service Hours!

Monday to Friday: 7:00 am-8:00 pm (PST)

Saturday: 8:00 am to 4:00 pm (PST)

Sunday: 9:00 am to 2:00 pm (PST)

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Lincoln Law - Concord

1525 Contra Costa Blvd

Pleasant Hill, CA, 94523

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Lincoln Law - Hayward

24301 Southland Drive

Suite 214B

Hayward, CA, 94545

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Carl Richard Gustafson

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Oakland, CA

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5.0 / 5.0

26 customer reviews

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Posted by Nick | March 28, 2023

Student Loan Discharge

I would give Lincoln Law a 10 Star if available. Carl G. was amazzzzzinnngggggg! He was able to discharge ALL of my student loans. Carl knows the latest regarding this process. I have the utmost confidence that Carl knows the legal ramifications and how to effective proceed forward. I thought I would not be able to rid this "monkey on my back" but it was finally done! Thank you once again Carl and your amazing Dream Team!

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Posted by Marvin | November 29, 2022

Amazing lawyer and team

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Posted by Abdelhade | December 17, 2021

Excellent service

"Great service and very knowledgeable and helpful through the process!" Thank You

Posted by Steve | November 23, 2021

Peace of mind

I found Carl on a Google search and really felt comfortable during my consultation he even offered to talk to my fiance with me to tell her I was thinking of filing. Carl and his team were very upfront and honest and made me feel ok about everything. I worked with Richard and we set me up on a simple path to follow to allow me to be successful. It's not a easy thing to go through but the whole staff were very kind and helpful. Thank you so much!

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Posted by Cynthia | November 3, 2021

Great Way To End Debt

Mr Gustafson and His team at Lincoln Law were wonderful. After i paid a deposit to retain him i immediately got into a monthly payment plan which was very reasonable. I Recieved great support during the process and right before filing. As soon as i retained Him all my creditor calls stopped and i hardly had to do anything stressful. His team was a great support to me and they made my banrupcy case very smooth always providing me with great advice and step by step instructions. I would STRONGLY recommend Lincoln Law for anyone wishing to file bankruptcy. This organization is very professional, caring and provides exceptional service!!!

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Posted by anonymous | April 8, 2021

The best Lawyer and office

They say what they do, and they do what they say. I am amazed at the prudent advice of my Attorney Carl (and Attorney Richard), and the technology this Lincoln Law office deployed to align itself with the hi-tech world in this 2020 decade (text, email, cloud storage, etc.). You have your own domain to find out the status of your Case at anytime. I communicate with this office using my cell phone only. I only use my laptop for the two courses required in BK filing. My Attorney(s) savvied the paths from the Court so I may have a smooth sailing throughout my Case. His/their advice brings my Case to a successful completion without any bumps along the way. I sincerely thank Attorney Carl (and Attorney Richard plus all Paralegals and staff) at Lincoln Law office, and highly recommend him/Lincoln Law office to anyone. I was going to end this Review by saying Good Luck but you don't need luck, you need his/their expertise. Andy

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Posted by Richard | March 3, 2021

Excellent firm

The people at Lincoln Law are very kind and helpful. I am deaf and they were patient with me and handled my case with a great professionalism and kept me well informed. Everything went smoothly and without any problems. I highly recommend this firm.

Posted by Chanell | September 19, 2019

HAPPY CLIENT

I had filed my bankruptcy about a month ago and today I had my 341 bankruptcy court meeting. I was so nerves but my lawyer and his office staff told me not to worry and everything will be fine. So, when I went in to see the judge with my lawyer Carl by my side, I felt a little nerves and when my hearing started. It was so easy!!! I mean the questions they asked me was yes or no questions even a child could pass it. Just be honest with the judge and your court hearing will go by with flying colors. So, Now I'm debt free and I am a "HAPPY CLIENT"... Thank you Carl and Lincoln Law staff you are the best. I can now sleep better at night... SO, IF ANYONE IS LOOKING FOR A BANKRUPTCY LAWYER CALL THESE GUYS CUSS THEY ARE THE BEST AND IT WAS AN EASY PROCESS...

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Posted by anonymous | August 6, 2019

Thanks

His team is awesome! They were patient and kind....they were with me step by step by step!

Posted by Saul | May 23, 2019

Lincoln Law, only the best!

Carl Gustafson at Lincoln Law helped us with our bankruptcy case. He did a great job and put us at ease since we were very nervous and stressed out. We have never been in a situation like this but Carl and his staff were very profesional and made it seamless on every step of the way. I really appreciated that at first he looked at our case and looked for other options, but at the end, the best option was Chapter 13 bankruptcy. He was with us all the way and we never felt abandoned or forgotten in the midst of other clientele. Thanks Carl and staff for all your support and made us feel that we still have a second chance! God Bless!

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Posted by Virginia | February 20, 2019

Bankruptcy

Carl and his staff took the stress out of a very stressful decision. We were totally prepared at my court hearing. It was obvious not everyone who had a hearing on the same day was. It went quickly and smoothly.

Posted by anonymous | February 2, 2019

Really awesome service

I had an awesome experience. It was a difficult decision to file bankruptcy, but once I made my appointment, I knew it was going to be alright. Everyone was very professional, friendly, organized, and have they latest technology. It was stress free because they let you know what is needed. I recommend them to everyone who needs a great attorney, Carl and his staff are wonderful.

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Posted by MARLY | November 9, 2018

Excellent Service!

I was at the end of my rope when I first visited Lincoln Law. I was stressed from creditors calling me every 5 minutes and knowing that I was never getting anywhere no matter how much I paid. It's very disheartening to be in a situation where life got so out of control that I had to live on credit and it in turned ruined my quality of life by charging so much in interest that there was no light at the end of the tunnel. I met with Carl who gave me the insight of what I should do and I couldn't be more pleased with what the outcome is. I still have a ways to go in repairing my life but I now have a chance at a fresh start and without Carl and Lincoln Law I wouldn't be where I am today. So thank you! I will certainly recommend Lincoln Law to anyone that needs help!

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Posted by Sunny Z | September 26, 2018

Quick, Painless, Stress Free

I had a wonderful time with Carl and my attorney for my case. I just finished my 341 meeting and it was a quick process! Carl told me everything I needed to know. I have actually found Carl because of the reviews mentioned here! All the good things other have mention is true. I would definitely recommend him for your bankruptcy case!!!

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Posted by Kevin H. | January 3, 2018

Professionalism at it's finest !

True professionals is how my case was handled from start to finish Carl and his team at Lincoln Law were informative, helpful and efficient. From the first handshake to the close of my case I was never uncomfortable or left uninformed on the process of filing. I would recommend Carl Gustafson to anyone that has reservations,all answers and concerns were handled expeditiously and honestly. Thank you Carl,and Lincoln Law.

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Posted by anonymous | September 22, 2017

Bankruptcy

I am extremely pleased how Lincoln Law handled my case to its completion. A very organized firm and the entire legal staff are very knowledgeable. Communications are clear and precised to the point. Their guidance throughout he process are immeasurable and impeccable! Both counseling and educational materials Are very helpful to me. I finally will sleep well tonight. Thank you Lord for caring Lawyers and all the staff members of the Lincoln Law Firm. E.L.

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Posted by Justin H. | April 13, 2017

Thank you!!!

Thank you isn't enough to say how appreciative I am for everything and how I feel after this difficult task. From start to finish my questions were answered and everything went exactly how itwas explained to me. I couldn't have done any of this without the help of the Lincoln Law Group.

Posted by anonymous | November 3, 2016

Great attorney!

All his staff are very professional, so glad I came to Lincoln Law. I highly recommend him.

Posted by Summer | September 16, 2016

I recommend this law firm

I started with them a while ago and got all my necessary docs together. This firm is different compared to other business meeting you'll have. I'm sure we are used to the corporate America where we have to wait for everything. Not this place. They are quick on their toes. I love Tatiana and Ms. Chow and of course Mr. Gustafson. They were so quick to get me in and out with no hassles. I went to court and just like that... had my case closed in an instant. I recommend this office to all of you searching for the right candidate as a lawyer. Whether for a consult or to hire, you will not go wrong with this office.

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Posted by Aurora Betancourt | November 24, 2015

Great attorney

Carl and his staff provided me with the information on both ch. 7 and ch. 13. They explained well what happens when you file and answered all my questions. Carl was very clear on how bankruptcy affects the consumer. He and his staff were very professional and I would reccomend him to anyone who is thinking, or wants to file bankruptcy to contact his office !

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Cost

Resume

AVVO RATING 10.0 (Superb)

Work Experience

Partner
Lincoln Law
2007 - Present

Education

University of California at Berkeley, Boalt Hall School of Law
JD - Juris Doctor
2007

University of California - Los Angeles
BA - Bachelor of Arts
2003

Legal Cases

Lucas v. Us Department of Education et al
Settled for $2400, 2% of the outstanding balance.

Heritage Pacific Financial v. Montano
$70,000 Judgment for the Debtor-Defendant

Fidelity National Title Insurance Company v. Gonzalez et al
Judgment for Debtor and $41,745 Settlement to pay Debtor's Attorney Fees

View all legal cases

Associations

Contra Costa County Bar Association
Member
2016 - Present

National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Member
2011 - Present

American Consumer Bankruptcy College
Member
2008 - Present

State Bar of California
Member
2007 - Present

Contra Costa CBA Bankruptcy Section
Chair
2022 - 2023

Alameda County Bar Association, Bankruptcy Section
Vice Chair
2012 - 2014

UC Berkeley Ecological Law Quarterly
Associate Editor
2006 - 2007

View all associations

Languages Spoken

English

Spanish

Portuguese

Honors and Awards

Rising Star
SuperLawyers
2017

Rising Star
SuperLawyers
2014

Legal Specialization Board Certified - Bankruptcy
State Bar of California
2013

Top 100 Bankruptcy Firms
Debt Education and Certification Foundation
2012

Honors
UC Berkeley School of Law
2007

Magna Cum Laude
UCLA
2003

View all awards

Publications

Contra Costa Lawyer
The Personal Injury Case and the Automatic Stay
2017

East Bay Express
The New Face of Bankruptcy
2011

Las Vegas Review Journal
Considering bankruptcy? The truth behind some common myths
2011

King's Press - Consulting Editor
Handling & Avoiding Liens in Consumer Bankruptcy
2011

View all publications

Speaking Engagements

Bankruptcy Basics for Low-income Clients
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-income Clients
2021

Contra Costa County Bar Association-Bankruptcy Section
Playing with Lightning: The New Chapter 13 Plan
2019

Practising Law Institute
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-Income Clients 2019
2019

Trial & Error: What Works and What Doesn't with the New Model Chapter 13 Plan
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy
2018

Practising Law Institute
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-Income Clients 2018
2018

Pro Bono Symposium
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-Income Clients 2017
2017

PLI Pro Bono
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-income Clients
2016

Bankruptcy Basics for Low-income Clients
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy
2015

Friday Attorney Teleconference
Defending Complaints For Fraud The Montano Case etc.
2014

Alameda County Bar Association
Consumer Bankruptcy Fees: Expand Your Practice
2014

Practising Law Institute
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-income Clients
2014

ACBC Semi-annual Conference, New Orleans, LA
Statistics and Bankruptcy: Being a Details Devil Pays Dividends
2013

Practising Law Institute
Bankruptcy Basics for Low-Income Clients
2013

Practising Law Institute
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: Its Value and How it Benefits Low-Income Debtors
2011

View all speaking engagements

Attorney endorsements

Received (17)

Given (14)

Endorse Carl

Lou Harris

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Sep 27
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Carl is always willing to give his time to get to the bottom of a problem. I respect his knowledge and experience on Bankruptcy. He is exceptional. He has a huge heart and will fight endlessly for his clients."

E. Wood

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

"I endorse this lawyer."

Amir Soleimanian

Unknown Attorney | Nov 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Sarah Little

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 31
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer."

Anthony Celaya

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jul 15
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Carl is honest and capable, and it was an honor working with him."

Judd Nemiro

Unknown Attorney | Feb 13
Relationship: Other

"Aggressive representation and a great attorney. I endorse this lawyer."

Geva Baumer

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Aug 08
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wish to endorse Carl. Carl maintain the highest standards of integrity and ethics, he is very knowledgeable and work very hard for his clients."

Austin Houvener

Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney | May 04
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse Carl Gustafson. He is great resource for bankruptcy information and is willing to answer to questions. He regularly presents for local bar associations and is an expert in his practice area."

Kaushik Ranchod

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 01
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Carl is smart, compassionate and a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney."

John Orcutt

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

"I endorse this lawyer. Carl Gustafson is a young, energetic and perspicacious bankruptcy attorney in the state of California."

Matthew Berry

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Mar 06
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Carl's work on behalf of clients is excellent."

David Arietta

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

"I enjoy working with Carl in the bankruptcy field. He properly prepares his cases and is knowledgeable about the law. His clients respect him and he communicates well with them."

Michael Primus

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

"Carl is hardworking and smart. I endorse this lawyer."

Michael Clark

Chapter 13 bankruptcy Attorney | May 02
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Carl Gustafson is a highly qualified consumer bankruptcy attorney who has a combination of intelligence and compassion that is crucial to helping people through difficult times. I strongly endorse him and the Lincoln Law firm."

Tessa Santiago

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Carl has an uncanny understanding of the bankruptcy code. He is highly qualified, knowledgeable, and methodical in his approach to bankruptcy. He is solution-oriented and his work is of the highest caliber. I can wholeheartedly recommend Carl to those in need of a fresh start."

Andrew Curtis

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Jan 13
Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Carl has worked with me on a number of cases. His expertise with bankruptcy and other consumer rights has been an enormous benefit to me, and my clients. He has honed in on an area of the law and made it his passion to help those in need."

Andrew Gustafson

Bankruptcy and debt Attorney | Oct 25
Relationship: Family member

"In my opinion, Carl is one of the best bankruptcy attorneys in the nation. I often turn to him for counsel in regards to complex bankruptcy matters. His experience is well beyond his years."

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Litigation

Estate planning

Bankruptcy and debt

Immigration

Chapter 13 bankruptcy

Sally Elkington

Chapter 13 bankruptcy

Sarah Little

Chapter 13 bankruptcy

Bankruptcy and debt

Chapter 7 bankruptcy

Bankruptcy and debt

Bankruptcy and debt

Litigation

Bankruptcy and debt

Bankruptcy and debt

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Carl Richard Gustafson

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