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 Florida 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 Sarasota?

Richard is licensed in Florida. Matters governed by Florida 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 John Cole II, Bankruptcy Attorney in Sarasota

Quick answer

Richard John Cole II is a member based in Sarasota, FL. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 11. Richard has over 51 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at R. John Cole, II & Associates, P.A.. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Sarasota, FL
Experience: over 51 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Chapter 11

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 11 matters from Sarasota, FL.
Over 51 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Practice areas handled by Richard John Cole II

Richard concentrates on bankruptcy, business, chapter 11, chapter 13, and chapter 7. Each area below outlines the kind of case Richard handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Sarasota, Florida

Richard takes bankruptcy matters in Sarasota, Florida. 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 Sarasota, Florida

Richard takes business matters in Sarasota, Florida. 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 11 cases in Sarasota, Florida

Richard takes chapter 11 matters in Sarasota, Florida. 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 Sarasota, Florida

Richard takes chapter 13 matters in Sarasota, Florida. 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 Sarasota, Florida

Richard takes chapter 7 matters in Sarasota, Florida. 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

About Richard John Cole II — Over 51 years of Florida bankruptcy experience

Richard John Cole II is a member based in Sarasota, FL. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 11. Richard has over 51 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at R. John Cole, II & Associates, P.A.. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Mr. Richard John Cole II is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy, chapter 11, chapter 13 and 26 other areas of law. Richard received a B.A. degree from Auburn University in 1968, and has been licensed for 51 years. Richard practices at R. John Cole, II & Associates, P.A. in Sarasota, FL.

Working with Richard on a bankruptcy matter

Mr. Richard John Cole II is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy, chapter 11, chapter 13 and 26 other areas of law. Richard received a B.A. degree from Auburn University in 1968, and has been licensed for 51 years. Richard practices at R. John Cole, II & Associates, P.A. in Sarasota, FL.

Who Richard represents

Richard reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and chapter 11 matters in Sarasota and the surrounding Florida area.

Credentials

Richard John Cole II's legal education and bar admissions

University of Florida
J.D. · 1974
Auburn University
B.A. · 1968

Jurisdictions

Richard's state bar admissions

U.S. Supreme Court
1989 · ACTIVE
U.S. Court of Appeal
1981 · ACTIVE
U.S. Tax Court
1978 · ACTIVE
Florida
1975 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
1975 · ACTIVE

Richard studied at J.D. in University of Florida and B.A. in Auburn University.

Law school and academic background

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

Recognition

Awards, publications, and recognition of Richard John Cole II

Richard has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Locations

Richard John Cole II's office in Sarasota

Richard's primary office is at 46 North Washington Boulevard, Suite 24, Sarasota, FL, 34236. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

R. John Cole, II & Associates, P.A.

46 North Washington Boulevard, Suite 24

Sarasota, FL 34236

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Client feedback

Client reviews of Richard John Cole II — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review

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 Sarasota.

5.0

1 client review

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

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Richard John Cole II — 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 Sarasota, Florida

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 John Cole II

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 Florida 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 Sarasota?
Richard is licensed in Florida. Matters governed by Florida 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 Florida residents in the last few months, answered by bankruptcy attorneys like Richard John Cole II. Each link opens the full answer thread.

How Long Does Bankruptcy Take In Florida After Filing?
I filed for Chapter 13 bankruptcy in Orlando, Florida, last month, and I'm anxious about how long this process will take. I have three car payments that I'm behind on, and my credi
1 verified answer · Bankruptcy · Florida
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
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
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

Areas served

Bankruptcy attorneys serving Sarasota, Miami and Tampa in Florida

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

Richard John Cole II, Bankruptcy Attorney in Sarasota, Florida

Quick answer