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

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

Does Matthew offer a free consultation?

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

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

Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Lansing?

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

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

Is Matthew accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?

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

Matthew Tolbert Smith, Bankruptcy Attorney in Lansing

Quick answer

Matthew Tolbert Smith is a member based in Lansing, MI. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Civil Rights. Matthew has over 32 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Clark Hill PLC. Rated 3.2 out of 5 from 2 client reviews.

Based in: Lansing, MI
Experience: over 32 years
Known for: Bankruptcy · Business · Civil Rights

Handles Bankruptcy, Business, and Civil Rights matters from Lansing, MI.
Over 32 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with CV Notable.

Areas of practice

Matthew's practice areas in Lansing

Matthew concentrates on bankruptcy, business, civil rights, construction, and general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Matthew handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Bankruptcy cases in Lansing, Michigan

Matthew takes bankruptcy matters in Lansing, Michigan. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Business cases in Lansing, Michigan

Matthew takes business matters in Lansing, Michigan. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Civil Rights cases in Lansing, Michigan

Matthew takes civil rights matters in Lansing, Michigan. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Construction cases in Lansing, Michigan

Matthew takes construction matters in Lansing, Michigan. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

General cases in Lansing, Michigan

Matthew takes general matters in Lansing, Michigan. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Matthew agrees to represent you.

Biography

Matthew Tolbert Smith, bankruptcy attorney serving Lansing

Matthew Tolbert Smith is a member based in Lansing, MI. The practice focuses on Bankruptcy, Business, and Civil Rights. Matthew has over 32 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Clark Hill PLC. Rated 3.2 out of 5 from 2 client reviews. Matthew works from Lansing, Michigan and takes on bankruptcy matters across the region.

Matthew Tolbert Smith is a lawyer practicing commercial litigation, construction law, corporate law and 15 other areas of law. Matthew received a B.A. degree from Michigan State University in 1991, and has been licensed for 32 years. Matthew practices at Clark Hill PLC in Lansing, MI and 1 other location.

Matthew's approach to bankruptcy cases

Matthew Tolbert Smith is a lawyer practicing commercial litigation, construction law, corporate law and 15 other areas of law. Matthew received a B.A. degree from Michigan State University in 1991, and has been licensed for 32 years. Matthew practices at Clark Hill PLC in Lansing, MI and 1 other location.

Clients Matthew works with

Matthew reviews new inquiries case-by-case for bankruptcy, business, and civil rights matters in Lansing and the surrounding Michigan area.

Credentials

Credentials — where Matthew studied and practices

University of Detroit Mercy School of Law
J.D. · 1994
Michigan State University
B.A. · 1991

Jurisdictions

Matthew's state bar admissions

Michigan
1994 · ACTIVE

Matthew studied at J.D. in University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and B.A. in Michigan State University.

Law school and academic background

Matthew completed J.D. in University of Detroit Mercy School of Law and B.A. in Michigan State University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Matthew runs in Michigan is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Matthew's legal honors and published work

Matthew has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

CV Notable

Legal awards and honors

CV Notable.

Locations

Matthew Tolbert Smith's office in Lansing

Matthew's primary office is at 212 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing, MI, 48906-4328. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Clark Hill PLC

212 E. Grand River Ave.

Lansing, MI 48906-4328

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Matthew Tolbert Smith — 3.2/5 rating from 2 verified client reviews

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

3.2

2 client reviews

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

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Matthew Tolbert 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 Matthew usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Consultation formats and pricing

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

Questions to ask a bankruptcy attorney in Lansing, Michigan

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 Matthew

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

Payment methods and payment plans

Matthew'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 Matthew Tolbert Smith

How much does it cost to hire Matthew for a bankruptcy case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Matthew walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Matthew offer a free consultation?
Matthew charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Matthew's office. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer free consults — check Matthew's current terms during booking.
How long do bankruptcy cases in Michigan 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. Matthew gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Matthew take my case if I'm outside Lansing?
Matthew is licensed in Michigan. Matters governed by Michigan law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Matthew 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 Matthew?
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. Matthew will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Matthew accepting new bankruptcy clients right now?
Matthew'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 Michigan residents in the last few months, answered by bankruptcy attorneys like Matthew Tolbert Smith. Each link opens the full answer thread.

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
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
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
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 Lansing, Detroit and Grand Rapids in Michigan

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

Matthew Tolbert Smith, Bankruptcy Attorney in Lansing, Michigan

Quick answer