Common Sense Legal Counseling - Somerville, MA

Practical Bankruptcy and Debt Solutions in Somerville, Massachusetts

When overwhelming credit card bills, medical debt, or the threat of home foreclosure create chronic stress, individuals and small business owners need sensible legal guidance without judgment. Common Sense Legal Counseling, located on Highland Avenue in Somerville, has provided compassionate, individualized advocacy for more than three decades. Established in 1994 by attorney Neil J. Berman, the practice delivers the dedicated attention of a community law office. Whether facing aggressive collection agencies or seeking long-term financial security, clients benefit from straightforward counsel focused on realistic solutions.

Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 Consumer Bankruptcy Relief

Federal bankruptcy protections provide an essential lifeline for honest debtors looking to rebuild their lives. As dedicated bankruptcy lawyers and debt relief lawyers, the firm helps clients determine whether liquidation under Chapter 7 or structured repayment under Chapter 13 provides the most advantageous outcome under the Massachusetts Means Test. When you need a lawyer urgently to stop wage garnishments, halt creditor phone calls, or prevent vehicle repossession, attorney Neil J. Berman invokes the federal automatic stay immediately upon filing.

• Eliminating unsecured obligations such as credit card debt, medical expenses, and personal loans through Chapter 7 discharge.
• Formulating feasible Chapter 13 repayment plans to cure mortgage arrears and halt residential foreclosure.
• Protecting personal property, retirement assets, and home equity through state and federal exemption laws.
• Defending consumers against deceptive collection tactics and creditor harassment under fair debt collection laws.

Essential Estate Planning, Wills, and Probate Administration

Preparing for the future ensures your hard-earned assets are preserved and your personal healthcare wishes are honored. Common Sense Legal Counseling serves as reliable estate planning lawyers, wills lawyers, and trusts lawyers for local families. Attorney Berman drafts foundational documents including last wills, durable powers of attorney, healthcare proxies, and living trusts designed to avoid costly delays in Massachusetts probate courts. Families navigating the loss of a relative also receive compassionate support from experienced probate lawyers to settle estate affairs efficiently.

Uncontested Divorce and Residential Real Estate Assistance

Legal challenges often touch multiple areas of family life. In addition to financial workouts, the firm assists couples seeking amicable marital dissolutions as thoughtful divorce lawyers. By focusing on uncontested divorces and separation agreements, the practice helps clients resolve property division and support matters without the emotional and financial toll of courtroom battles. As experienced residential real estate lawyers, attorney Berman also assists homeowners with property deeds, title questions, and private real estate transactions.

Longstanding Community Advocacy and Pro Bono Dedication

Attorney Neil J. Berman earned his law degree from Western New England University School of Law in 1994 after graduating from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He has served as Chair of the Board of Directors for the Massachusetts chapter of the National Lawyers Guild and remains an active member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA). Recognized on the Community Legal Aid Pro Bono Honor Roll, he is committed to making legal services approachable and transparent. Clients who hire an attorney from this practice receive direct personal representation from Mr. Berman from start to finish.

Request a Free Confidential Consultation Today

You do not have to face debt stress, foreclosure threats, or family estate concerns alone. Knowing where to find a lawyer who listens carefully and explains every step in plain language can make all the difference. Common Sense Legal Counseling offers free initial consultations by appointment at its Somerville office. Contact attorney Neil J. Berman today to consult a lawyer about regaining control of your financial future.