More Than 11,000 Cases Filed
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Caring Guidance for Bankruptcy and Financial Needs

experienced

With over 40 years of experience and knowledge to draw from, I approach every case with confidence.

Compassionate

I care about you. My goal is to help eliminate the stress in your life and help you get out of debt so you can build a stronger future.

Dedicated

When you turn to my firm, you can rest assured I'll strive to get the job done efficiently and effectively.

Bankruptcy Attorney in Bend & Hermiston, Oregon

Dale Smith

Attorney at Law

I opened my firm, Oregon Fresh Start, in 1980, just a year after graduating from The Northwestern School of Law of Lewis & Clark College. Before shifting my focus to Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy, I served the legal needs of families as a divorce and estate attorney. Today, my goal is to make an even bigger impact on the lives of those around me by guiding them toward financial freedom. Throughout my 42 year career, I have helped more than 11,000 clients with my credit counseling and debt relief services.

MORE ABOUT ME

"I want my clients to understand that bankruptcy is not your last resort, but a valuable tool that can help you pursue a brighter financial future."
Dale Smith

Gain A Better Understanding of Bankruptcy

The primary purpose of bankruptcy is to protect you from your creditors. Before you file for bankruptcy, it is critical that you understand all the facts and whether you can discharge your debt. As an Oregon bankruptcy attorney with 42 years of experience, I will help you navigate the road to your fresh start.

The first step in the bankruptcy process is to determine which chapter is right for you. CHAPTER 7 bankruptcy is quick, taking only a few months to complete. Most of the time, you will pay little, if any, money to your creditors and, most of the time, you will get to keep all of your property. This option is ideal for individuals who are unable to commit to repayment plans, but want the chance to wipe the slate clean.

If you are in financial trouble, despite having a steady income, CHAPTER 13 bankruptcy may be a better option. Although this takes longer - 3 to 5 years - you can use it to pay past due taxes, stop foreclosure, lower interest rates and payments on cars. You, basically, reorganize your debt. Each month, you will send a payment to the court based upon your ability to pay. Any debt left over after the agreed-upon time period expires will then be discharged.

If you have questions about credit counseling or you're wondering if your debt is eligible to be discharged, talk to me today. I am passionate about helping people reach the light at the end of the tunnel, and my firm, Oregon Fresh Start, is prepared to serve your needs from offices in Bend and Hermiston, Oregon. No matter where you live in Oregon - Bend, Portland, Eugene, Medford - schedule a free consultation.

Don't Let Debt Define Your Life

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What YOU CAN EXPECT FROM
OREGON FRESH START

Bankruptcy

Chapter 7 Bankruptcy

Chapter 13 Bankruptcy

Hear From My Clients

Let them tell you how I can help

You Have Saved Our Lives

It has been such a pleasure working with you and your office. If you ever need any kind of referral let me know. I will mention you to anyone I know that needs your services. You really have saved our lives and our marriage and our home. You are the greatest ever. Take care and God Bless you and your family. Thanks a million again and again.

—Sally and Dan

Very Satisfied With OFS

Our finances were causing us a lot of stress. We were in jeopardy of losing both cars which would have been devastating to our family. The credit union did not want to work with us. With the help of Oregon Fresh Start, we were able to keep one of our vehicles, get rid of one car, and eliminate all of our debt. We were very satisfied with the way OFS helped us through this difficult time.

—Rory S.

Kept My Business Open

I owed more than $80,000 in taxes and was on the verge of having the IRS close down my business. Mr. Smith, at Oregon Fresh Start, was able to create a repayment plan for me through the bankruptcy court that is giving me the chance to repay my taxes and keep my business open.

—Lee T.

Pursue a Stronger Tomorrow

Most people never plan to end up in a situation that requires bankruptcy. It can be easy to feel as though you've failed, but, in reality, filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy could be the first step on the path toward your financial freedom.

For more than four decades, I have been helping clients seek the solutions that best fit their unique financial needs. Tell me your story and what you hope to gain from working with a bankruptcy attorney. Once I have an understanding of your goals, I will lay out a well-organized plan focused on your future. Your overwhelming debt has caused you enough stress. My job is to take that weight off your shoulders and help you move forward.

Some wonder whether filing bankruptcy will cause permanent damage to their finances. The truth is, continuing to live in debt is more likely to cause long-lasting problems than filing bankruptcy. Having me as an experienced bankruptcy attorney, and my staff at Oregon Fresh Start, on your side, can help you rebuild your life and forge a stronger future.

I truly care about my clients and I want to see them succeed. I also understand that they work jobs, just like I do, and aren't always available during normal business hours. For that reason, I am accessible on the weekends and in the evenings should you need to discuss your case. If you're ready to get started, I'm ready to help through one of my offices in Bend or Hermiston, Oregon. Schedule a free consultation with me, today.