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Michelle Carmody Kaplan

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Avvo Rating9.1
  • Bellevue, WA
  • Licensed for 24 years
Michelle Carmody Kaplan
Michelle Carmody Kaplan
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About Michelle

I am dedicated to assisting my clients. Through years of practice, I have learned how to get the results that you need. I understand that at the heart of your case is the very delicate and emotionally charged matter of money, and I am sensitive to those concerns. I pride myself on adhering to the highest professional and personal standards. I pledge to be: respectful of your time and money; honest and candid as to whether your case is worth pursuing; and communicative by responding promptly to your emails and phone calls and keeping you updated on the status of your case.

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Practice areas

Debt collectionChapter 7 bankruptcy
  1. Chapter 7 bankruptcy: 98%

    1 year

  2. Debt collection: 2%

    1 year

Languages spoken

English

Contact

Kaplan Law PLLC

40 Lake Bellevue Dr., Ste 100
Bellevue, WA, 98005

Website
http://kaplanlawpllc.com 

      Resume

      License
      StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
      WAActive199711/13/2021
      We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
      Avvo Contributions
      Legal answers2
      Legal guides0
      Awards
      Award nameGrantorDate granted
      Rated AttorneyLead Counsel2016
      Peer Review RatedMartindale-Hubbell2014
      Rising StarLaw & Politics Magazine2001
      Work Experience
      TitleCompany nameDuration
      OwnerKaplan Law PLLC2011 - Present
      Contract AttorneyPerkins Coie LLP2009 - 2011
      General CounselSilvaris Corporation2004 - 2009
      AssociateFoster Pepper PLLC2000 - 2003
      AssociateBrown Law Firm1999 - 2000
      AssociateSchwed & Gordon1998 - 1999
      Contract AttorneyPreston Gates & Ellis1997 - 1998
      Associations
      Association namePosition nameDuration
      Women Bankruptcy Association for West. WABoard Member2015 - Present
      Consumer Education and Training Services ("CENTS")Board Member2015 - Present
      National Association of Consumer AttorneysMember2012 - Present
      East King County Bar AssociationMember2012 - Present
      Eastside Legal Assistance ProgramVolunteer Attorney2012 - Present
      King County Bar Association, Bankruptcy Law SectionMember2011 - Present
      Mother Attorney Mentoring AssociationMember2011 - Present
      Women Bankruptcy LawyersMember2000 - Present
      Association of Women Bankruptcy Attorneys, Western District of WashingtonMember2000 - Present
      Bankruptcy Bar Asociation for the Eastern District of WashingtonMember2000 - Present
      Western District Bankruptcy Bar AssociationMember2000 - Present
      Publications
      Publication nameTitleDate
      Money Steps VideoContributing Editor2017
      Education
      School nameDegreeGraduated
      Gonzaga University School of LawJD/MBA - Juris Doctorate and MBA1997
      Washington State UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts1993
      Speaking Engagements
      Conference nameTitleDate
      WA Men's Prison in MonroeBankruptcy Basics and Dealing with Creditors2015
      King County Bar AssociationConsumer Bankruptcy Basics2012
      Helping Clients in Troubled imesInto to Consumer Bankruptcy2011
      Quarterly seminarsEstate Planning 1011999
      Legal cases
      Case nameOutcome
      Wade Cook Financial Corp.Many years down the road, distributions were made to creditors

      Reviews

      (71)5.0 stars
      5 Star
      		97%
      4 Star
      		3%
      3 Star
      		0%
      2 Star
      		0%
      1 Star
      		0%
      Review Michelle Kaplan

      Bankruptcy

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      Michelle Kaplan you're super awesome, thank you for taking my case and make me feel relax talking to you about filing for bankruptcy you did not judge me or make me feel extra shame for filing. You told me not to be nervous or ashame things happen in life and you will work on my case and get it done and you explain detail to detail what to expect from filing bankruptcy you make it seem so effortless I appreciate you more than you know. Thank you and your Law Firm for all that you do, because of what you did I'm looking forward to a fresh start. You did what you said you would and that's saying a lot. Thank you again and God bless you for showing me kindness when I was freaking out about filing bankruptcy.
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      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      DRF

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      Ms. Kaplan was very thorough and made the whole process quite easy and understandable. Good follow through was appreciated Job well done
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Michelle's the best

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      Over the past several years, I found myself in a substantial amount of debt. I had spoken with a couple other bankruptcy lawyers, and it seemed like no one would really give me the chance. Michelle took the time and really went above and beyond for the assistance I needed. She acted as a friend, and was there anytime I needed; through my panic, and my dumb questions, my struggle with self employment, just everything and she never made it hard on my end. I am so grateful for all that she was able to do for me, and I would recommend her to everyone dealing with debt. Thank you Michelle, for EVERYTHING that you did for me.
      More
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Very helpful

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      I had very useful consultation with Michelle, she's knowledgable. Patient and pays attention to what client is saying. I would recommend anyone having issues with the area she serves, should definitely hire her.
      This review is from a potential client who consulted with this attorney.
      Consulted attorney

      Knowledgeable, Friendly, and Very Helpful

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      I contacted Michelle regarding a personal bankruptcy. She offered a good deal of her personal time in the initial consultation to fully explain the process. I was left with enough information to confidently proceed with a bankruptcy filing, and I had full confidence that hiring her office was the best decision I could make. Throughout the process, there were no surprises, and any time I had a question, I got a useful and accurate answer. What was personally a difficult process and hard decision became a lot easier thanks to the depth of Michelle's knowledge and her hard work and genuine desire to help.
      More
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      I'd give 6 stars if it was available

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      I've never needed or used a lawyer before. She made the process so easy and so comforting. Definitely was able to understand the situation and give guidance as if she was a close family member. I would recommend her in a heartbeat and already have. She truly has a talent for what she does and how she does it. Truly an amazing lawyer.
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Professional, smart, friendly service

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      Michelle led me through all the bankruptcy steps and made a difficult process easier. She was always prepared and thorough. I was kept informed the entire time. Communication was excellent and I really appreciated that. She never made me feel hurried or watched the clock. Great person and service. Thank you Michelle!!!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      That smile is genuine as is this attorney

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      Those of us who for what ever reason find that a BK is the only safety net, experience a myriad of emotions. Included are, embarrassment, anxiety, no hope, and fear of future. If an Angel is ever needed it is at this crucial point. Making the phone call for help is the most difficult part of the process and the most important . Once the call is made to the Attorney of choice, your expectations of the return call creates another layer of anxiety. Michelle returned my call with expediency. Their is no doubt in my mind, that Michelle's first words to me, absolutely gave me the confidence to go through with the BK. Our first meeting confirmed my feelings. I observed Michelle to be that rare human being, that can genuinely balance, care, concern, humor, and warmth, with professionalism, knowledge, integrity, and a let's do this together attitude. That smile you see in her photo above is real. I am forever grateful to Michelle for taking me by the hand, and walking me through the whole process from beginning to end. She never once did not return a phone call or a text, or an e-mail. There was a point that I felt that I was being a real pain in the you know what with my multiple questions. Michelle handled them with grace, expediency, and warmth. No question went unanswered. If you are considering BK, short circuit your fears and anxiety. Call Michelle. My BK was just completed and I am breathing a sigh of relief. My future looks a lot brighter, and it's great to have a new start. That's what BK is designed to do. But to do it with an Angel by your side, is a whole different story. Her fee is very reasonable and a small price to pay for a new you. I'm living proof. Call her now. Thank you Michelle Kaplan. You ARE the best.
      More
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Professional lawyer who really cares about her clients.

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      I used Michelle for a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. She was professional, detail oriented, and responsive. Regardless of the question I had, she was always patient and took the time to address any concerns I had. She was able to take the bankruptcy process and break it down in achievable steps. Finally, Michelle is very personable. I always felt like I had her full attnention when we met. I highly recommend Michelle!
      More
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney

      Backruptcy Process With Michelle Kaplan

      5.0 stars

      Posted by

      Michelle is very knowledgeable of the process and guided me through each step of the way. Very well done Michelle!!
      This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
      Hired attorney
      See all reviews

      Attorney endorsements

      (13)
      Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer
      Lawyer Erin Lane

      Erin Lane, Unknown Attorney on Apr 24, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. I cannot say enough about Michelle! She is compassionate, knowledgeable and has a fantastic personality. She is well respected in the legal community and I would recommend her any day!

      Lawyer Mary Conception Anderson

      Mary Anderson, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Oct 2, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Michelle is a dedicated, hardworking and knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney. I would refer her services without reservation.

      Lawyer Erin Lane

      Erin Lane, Unknown Attorney on Apr 24, 2014
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. I cannot say enough about Michelle! She is compassionate, knowledgeable and has a fantastic personality. She is well respected in the legal community and I would recommend her any day!

      Lawyer Mary Conception Anderson

      Mary Anderson, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Oct 2, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Michelle is a dedicated, hardworking and knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney. I would refer her services without reservation.

      Lawyer Latife Helen Neu

      Latife Neu, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Oct 2, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Michelle Kaplan as a bankruptcy lawyer. Her confident and caring demeanor is backed up by a high level of professionalism and knowledge of her field.

      Lawyer Sheri L Nevlin

      Sheri Nevlin, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Sep 27, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Michelle has the unique perspective of having worked both for creditors and now for consumer and business debtors. This experience has equipped her with the knowledge and expertise to handle your debt issues aggressively. I do not hesitate to refer clients to Michelle.

      Lawyer Merrilee Ann MacLean

      Merrilee MacLean, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Apr 7, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I have referred several people to Michelle for debtor representation, and gotten good feedback. She is a thoughtful, caring attorney who works hard to take care of her clients.

      Lawyer Shashi Vijay

      Shashi Vijay, Bankruptcy and debt Attorney on Apr 4, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer's work. Michelle is a dilligent attorney with excellent negotiation and writing skills. She is extremely intelligent, hard-working, and in addition, has a friendly, caring demeanor. I highly recommend Michelle.

      Lawyer Antoinette M Davis

      Antoinette Davis, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Mar 15, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      Michelle is an attorney that possesses a rare blend of passion for the practice of law and doing right on behalf of her clients. She is not only a hard worker and a true advocate, but a very bright and creative mind. Without reservation, I endorse Michelle Carmody Kaplan!

      Lawyer Adria Vondra

      Adria Vondra, Unknown Attorney on Mar 15, 2013
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I have worked with Michelle on cases before and she is a dynamic attorney with a heart for her clients. She truly goes to bat for her clients and wants what is best for them. I would definitely recommend Michelle to anyone needing legal services.

      Lawyer William John Carlson

      William Carlson, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Oct 11, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. I have known Ms. Kaplan for several years. I have consulted with her on several complicated bankruptcy matters which arose during the litigation of my own cases. Her advice was always accurate, well-reasoned, and prompt, I have seen the same results with the clients I have referred to her. She is my first choice when I want sound legal advice.

      Lawyer Michael K. DuBeau

      Michael DuBeau, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Sep 18, 2012
      Relationship: Worked together on matter

      I have worked with Michelle in the past and have referred her to several of my clients. Her work ethic is second to none. She is very knowledgable and an incredible advocate for her clients. I recommend her highly.

      Lawyer David B. Richardson

      David Richardson, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on May 23, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse Michelle Kaplan. She is smart, accessible, experienced and knows what she is doing in all matters relating to bankruptcy and debt. She is also an absolute pleasure to work with. Dave Richardson

      Lawyer Darcel Andrel Lobo

      Darcel Lobo, Unknown Attorney on May 18, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I endorse this lawyer. She is a wonderful colleague and does a great job for her clients. I'd highly recommend her as an attorney and am certain that any client would be more than happy with her services.

      Lawyer Michele K McNeill

      Michele McNeill, Chapter 7 bankruptcy Attorney on Mar 17, 2012
      Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

      I have had the pleasure of using Michelle to assist my distressed property clients who are considering or in need of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy. She is the ultimate professional, and a great person. I give her my highest recommendation.

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