Lara M. Gardner, Bankruptcy Attorney in Portland, Oregon

Lara concentrates on bankruptcy, chapter 13, chapter 7, criminal defense, and personal injury. Each area below outlines the kind of case Lara handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Bankruptcy

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• Chapter 13

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• Chapter 7

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• Criminal Defense

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• Personal Injury

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Lara's primary office is at 10121 SE Sunnyside Road, Suite 300, Portland, OR, 97015. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

Lara 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.

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

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

• Does Lara offer a free consultation?

  Lara charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Lara's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Lara's current terms during booking.

• How long do bankruptcy cases in Oregon 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. Lara gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Lara take my case if I'm outside Portland?

  Lara is licensed in Oregon. Matters governed by Oregon law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Lara 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 Lara?

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

• Is Lara accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

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