Julia Jensen Smolka, Bankruptcy Attorney in Park Ridge, Illinois

Julia concentrates on bankruptcy, business, construction, litigation, and real estate. Each area below outlines the kind of case Julia handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Bankruptcy

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• Business

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• Construction

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• Litigation

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• Real Estate

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• Trusts

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Julia's primary office is at 216 West Higgins Road, Park Ridge, IL, 60068-5706. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new bankruptcy attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Julia usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Julia discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in bankruptcy practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Julia for a bankruptcy case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Julia walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Julia offer a free consultation?

  Julia charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Julia's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Julia's current terms during booking.

• How long do bankruptcy cases in Illinois typically take?

  Simple bankruptcy matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Julia gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Julia take my case if I'm outside Park Ridge?

  Julia is licensed in Illinois. Matters governed by Illinois law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Julia will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Julia?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Julia will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Julia accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

  Julia's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.