If you're facing legal issues, such as a violation of your rights or a lawsuit, seeking the assistance of a legal expert may be necessary. Although these situations can be stressful, a reputable attorney can help protect your interests and guide you through the complex legal system.
For student loan borrowers, the benefits of working with a student debt lawyer may be apparent for student loan borrowers. So, what does a student loan attorney do and when should you consider hiring one?
In a world where student loans are becoming increasingly confusing, with different types of loans, repayment plans, and forgiveness programs, stey can help navigate the various repayment options for your loans, and negotiate with lenders to modify the terms of your agreement or resolve a dispute.
Additionally, they can advise you of your legal rights and options if you end up in court. Though discharging student debt through bankruptcy can be challenging, a student loan lawyer can help determine your eligibility for a discharge and represent you in bankruptcy proceedings.
To put it differently, a student loan attorney assists borrowers in navigating a convoluted system. According to Stanley Tate, a student loan attorney at Tate Law, a lack of experience can lead to thousands of dollars in interest, disqualify you from various loan forgiveness programs, or increase your monthly payments.
It's also essential to understand the limitations of a student loan lawyer. Generally, according to Tate, student loan attorneys do not file lawsuits against lenders, servicers, or schools for engaging in predatory lending practices, providing misleading information about education quality, or misrepresenting potential career earnings after graduation. These cases are better suited for state attorneys general, consumer rights firms, and consumer advocacy groups.
There are various reasons to consider hiring a student debt lawyer. Some situations that may warrant legal assistance include:
- Difficulty making payments: Falling behind on student loan payments can lead to late fees, credit damage, and ultimately default. At this point, the entire balance of your loan becomes immediately due.
- Default: Once you've missed numerous student loan payments and are in default, you lose government-backed benefits and protections, such as deferment, forbearance, alternate repayment plans, and loan forgiveness. Additionally, you may face wage and tax refund garnishment, or even a lawsuit. It's essential to get back in good standing as soon as possible.
According to Lyle Solomon, principal attorney at Oak View Law Group, hiring a lawyer to negotiate with collectors is also wise if your debt is in collections. They can help minimize the amount you pay and the negative impact on your credit score.
