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

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

Does David offer a free consultation?

David charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain David's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check David'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. David gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

Can David take my case if I'm outside Tacoma?

David 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 — David 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 David?

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

Is David accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

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

David Clement Smith, Bankruptcy Attorney in Tacoma

Quick answer

David Clement Smith is a member based in Tacoma, WA. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 11. David has over 26 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Law Offices of David Smith, PLLC. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Tacoma, WA
Experience: over 26 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Chapter 11

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 11 matters from Tacoma, WA.
Over 26 years of practice as a licensed attorney.

Areas of practice

Legal matters David takes on

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

Bankruptcy cases in Tacoma, Washington

David takes bankruptcy matters in Tacoma, 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 David agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Tacoma, Washington

David takes business matters in Tacoma, 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 David agrees to represent you.

Chapter 11 cases in Tacoma, Washington

David takes chapter 11 matters in Tacoma, 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 David agrees to represent you.

Chapter 13 cases in Tacoma, Washington

David takes chapter 13 matters in Tacoma, 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 David agrees to represent you.

Chapter 7 cases in Tacoma, Washington

David takes chapter 7 matters in Tacoma, 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 David agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet David Clement Smith — bankruptcy lawyer in Tacoma

David Clement Smith is a member based in Tacoma, WA. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Chapter 11. David has over 26 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Law Offices of David Smith, PLLC. Rated 4.3 out of 5 from 1 client review.

David Clement Smith is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy, business and corporation, chapter 11 bankruptcy and 21 other areas of law. David received a B.A. degree from Simpson College in 1992, and has been licensed for 26 years. David practices at Law Offices of David Smith, PLLC in Tacoma, WA.

How David handles bankruptcy matters

David Clement Smith is a lawyer practicing bankruptcy, business and corporation, chapter 11 bankruptcy and 21 other areas of law. David received a B.A. degree from Simpson College in 1992, and has been licensed for 26 years. David practices at Law Offices of David Smith, PLLC in Tacoma, WA.

The kind of cases David takes

David reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and chapter 11 matters in Tacoma and the surrounding Washington area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

Seattle University School of Law
J.D. · 1999
Simpson College
B.A. Business · 1992

Jurisdictions

David's state bar admissions

Washington
2000 · ACTIVE

David studied at J.D. in Seattle University School of Law and B.A. Business in Simpson College.

Law school and academic background

David completed J.D. in Seattle University School of Law and B.A. Business in Simpson College. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice David runs in Washington is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Locations

David Clement Smith's office in Tacoma

David's primary office is at 201 St. Helens Ave., Tacoma, WA, 98402. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Law Offices of David Smith, PLLC

201 St. Helens Ave.

Tacoma, WA 98402

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of David Clement Smith — 4.3/5 rating from 1 verified client review

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

4.3

1 client review

Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once David Clement Smith claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire David Clement Smith — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

David charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain David'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; David will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Tacoma, 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 David

David 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. David confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

David'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 David Clement Smith

How much does it cost to hire David for a bankruptcy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. David walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does David offer a free consultation?
David charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain David's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check David'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. David gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can David take my case if I'm outside Tacoma?
David 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 — David 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 David?
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. David will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is David accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?
David'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 David Clement Smith. 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 Tacoma, Seattle and Spokane in Washington

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

David Clement Smith, Bankruptcy Attorney in Tacoma, Washington

Quick answer