Consumer Law

One Foreclosure Defense Lawyer's Unusual Tactics

By Brian Wolfman

The LA Times reports that California foreclosure defense lawyer Michael Pines advises his clients after their homes have been foreclosed to break into and squat in them. In fact he's done it himself on behalf of clients: "The 58-year-old attorney admits to breaking into homes at least half a dozen times, ... leaving the clients to squat in their homes while he defends their legal right to possession. His unconventional methods have gotten him fined by a judge in San Diego, arrested in Newport Beach and threatened with contempt ? and jail ? in Ventura." The Times article suggests that the squatting strategy may make it easier for Pines to be paid: "'I tell my clients that if you're living in a house for free, you should be able to afford to pay a lawyer,' Pines said, adding that he usually charges an hourly rate of $650."

Full post as published by CL&P Blog on January 17, 2011 (boomark / email).