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

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

Does Richard offer a free consultation?

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

How long do bankruptcy cases in Washington 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. Richard gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can Richard take my case if I'm outside Seattle?

Richard is licensed in Washington. Matters governed by Washington law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Richard 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 Richard?

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. Richard will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

Is Richard accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

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

Richard James Symmes, Bankruptcy Attorney in Seattle

Quick answer

Richard James Symmes is a principal based in Seattle, WA. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 13. Richard has over 18 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Symmes Law Group, PLLC. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 4 client reviews.

Based in: Seattle, WA
Experience: over 18 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Chapter 13

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 13 matters from Seattle, WA.
Over 18 years of practice as a licensed attorney.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Richard takes on

Richard concentrates on bankruptcy, business, chapter 13, chapter 7, and creditor rights. Each area below outlines the kind of case Richard handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Seattle, Washington

Richard takes bankruptcy matters in Seattle, Washington. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Richard agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Seattle, Washington

Richard takes business matters in Seattle, Washington. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Richard agrees to represent you.

Chapter 13 cases in Seattle, Washington

Richard takes chapter 13 matters in Seattle, Washington. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Richard agrees to represent you.

Chapter 7 cases in Seattle, Washington

Richard takes chapter 7 matters in Seattle, Washington. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Richard agrees to represent you.

Creditor Rights cases in Seattle, Washington

Richard takes creditor rights matters in Seattle, Washington. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Richard agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Richard James Symmes — bankruptcy lawyer in Seattle

Richard James Symmes is a principal based in Seattle, WA. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 13. Richard has over 18 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Symmes Law Group, PLLC. Rated 4.8 out of 5 from 4 client reviews.

Richard James Symmes is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy, business/ commercial, debt settlements and 12 other areas of law. Richard received a B.A. degree from University of Washington in 2004, and has been licensed for 18 years. Richard practices at Symmes Law Group, PLLC in Seattle, WA.

Richard's approach to bankruptcy cases

Richard James Symmes is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy, business/ commercial, debt settlements and 12 other areas of law. Richard received a B.A. degree from University of Washington in 2004, and has been licensed for 18 years. Richard practices at Symmes Law Group, PLLC in Seattle, WA.

Clients Richard works with

Richard reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and chapter 13 matters in Seattle and the surrounding Washington area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

University of Denver
J.D. · 2008
University of Washington
B.A. Communications · 2004

Jurisdictions

Richard's state bar admissions

Washington
2009 · ACTIVE
Colorado
2008 · ACTIVE

Richard studied at J.D. in University of Denver and B.A. Communications in University of Washington.

Law school and academic background

Richard completed J.D. in University of Denver and B.A. Communications in University of Washington. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Richard runs in Washington is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Locations

Richard James Symmes's office in Seattle

Richard's primary office is at Safeco Plaza, 1818 Westlake Ave N., Ste. 202, Seattle, WA, 98109. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Symmes Law Group, PLLC

Safeco Plaza, 1818 Westlake Ave N., Ste. 202

Seattle, WA 98109

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Richard James Symmes — 4.8/5 rating from 4 verified client reviews

Every review below is from a verified client of Richard. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing bankruptcy attorneys in Seattle.

4.8

4 client reviews

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Richard James Symmes claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Richard James Symmes — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Richard charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Richard's office.

What to bring to your first meeting

Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Richard will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Seattle, Washington

A short list to run through before you commit: How many bankruptcy matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?

Fees & payment

Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Richard

Richard 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.

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every bankruptcy matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Richard confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Richard's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many bankruptcy practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Richard James Symmes

How much does it cost to hire Richard for a bankruptcy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Richard walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Richard offer a free consultation?
Richard charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Richard's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Richard's current terms during booking.
How long do bankruptcy cases in Washington 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. Richard gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Richard take my case if I'm outside Seattle?
Richard is licensed in Washington. Matters governed by Washington law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Richard 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 Richard?
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. Richard will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Richard accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?
Richard's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Washington residents in the last few months, answered by bankruptcy attorneys like Richard James Symmes. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Get A Loan After Filing Bankruptcy In Washington?
I filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in Seattle, Washington, six months ago, and I'm starting to think about my financial future. How soon can I apply for a personal loan after bankrup
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Washington
Does Filing Bankruptcy Stop Foreclosure In New York?
I’m facing foreclosure on my home in Buffalo, New York, and I’m considering filing for bankruptcy as a last resort. My mortgage lender has already sent me a notice. If I file for C
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · New York
How Much Will Bankruptcy Cost Me In Michigan?
I live in Detroit, Michigan, and I’m exploring my bankruptcy options. I’ve heard filing can be expensive, but I need to know what to expect in terms of legal fees and court costs.
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Michigan
What Are The Consequences Of Bankruptcy In Maryland?
I’m considering bankruptcy in Baltimore, Maryland, and I'm worried about the potential consequences, like losing property or having my credit ruined. What are some common consequen
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Maryland
Can Bankruptcy Help With Medical Bills In Texas?
I racked up around $15,000 in medical bills after an emergency surgery last year in Houston, Texas. I’m struggling to keep up with payments, and I’m considering bankruptcy. Will fi
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Texas
Will Filing Bankruptcy Stop Wage Garnishment In Minnesota?
I live in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and my wages are getting garnished because of an unpaid credit card. I’m thinking about filing for bankruptcy to stop the garnishment. Will my ban
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Minnesota

Areas served

Bankruptcy attorneys serving Seattle, Spokane and Tacoma in Washington

Richard handles bankruptcy matters throughout Washington. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified bankruptcy attorneys in that community.

Richard James Symmes, Bankruptcy Attorney in Seattle, Washington

Quick answer