Sterbick And Associates

In the heart of Tacoma, Washington, Sterbick And Associates stands as a beacon of hope and expert guidance for individuals and businesses grappling with challenging financial situations. Situated at 1010 S I St, Tacoma, WA 98405, USA, this established law firm has carved a niche in providing dedicated and compassionate legal services, particularly in the intricate realms of bankruptcy and tax resolution.

The firm operates within the broader category of "Lawyers Near Me," a platform where those in need of specific legal expertise can find suitable professionals. Sterbick And Associates, under the leadership of attorney John Sterbick, aligns perfectly with this platform by offering essential services in bankruptcy and tax law. Their reputation is built on a foundation of professionalism, clear communication, and a genuine commitment to client well-being.

The environment at Sterbick And Associates is characterized by an empathetic and supportive atmosphere. Clients often find themselves in stressful and overwhelming financial predicaments, and the firm's approach is designed to alleviate this burden. From the initial contact, often through a phone call to (253) 265-4695 or +1 253-265-4695, clients are met with courtesy and understanding. The firm emphasizes creating a comfortable experience, acknowledging the difficult times clients are facing when seeking legal assistance for debt or tax issues.

Their client relations are a strong point, with testimonials frequently highlighting the patience and clarity with which the team explains complex legal processes. They prioritize transparent communication, ensuring clients are fully informed at every stage. This empathetic environment extends to their fee structure as well; John Sterbick typically works on a low flat fee, often on a sliding scale, making legal assistance more accessible. Furthermore, they offer a free half-hour consultation, allowing potential clients to discuss their situation and understand how the firm can help, risk-free.

Sterbick And Associates offers a diverse range of legal services, primarily focusing on debt relief and tax resolution. Their expertise is particularly valuable for individuals and businesses facing overwhelming financial burdens.

• Bankruptcy Services: The firm specializes in personal bankruptcy, guiding clients through both Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy processes. Chapter 7 bankruptcy allows for the discharge of various unsecured debts, while Chapter 13 involves a repayment plan over a set period. The team assists clients in understanding which chapter is appropriate for their situation and meticulously handles all necessary paperwork and court appearances. Their experience in this area has reportedly saved clients millions of dollars in debt.
• Tax Resolution Services: John Sterbick is a seasoned tax attorney with decades of experience in navigating IRS issues and state tax matters. His expertise covers a wide array of tax-related challenges, including:
  • Audit Representation: Representing clients during IRS audits, ensuring their rights are protected and minimizing potential liabilities.
  • IRS Seizures and Bank Levies: Intervening to protect assets from IRS seizures and working to release bank levies.
  • Wage Garnishment: Negotiating payment plans or other solutions to reduce or halt wage garnishments.
  • Tax Liens and Discharge: Working to resolve tax liens and secure their discharge to improve financial standing.
  • Mortgage Foreclosure & Cancellation of Debt: Providing guidance on the tax implications of foreclosures and canceled debt, aiming to minimize tax burdens.
  • Innocent Spouse Relief: Assisting individuals seeking relief from tax liabilities incurred by a spouse or former spouse.
  • IRS Delinquent Tax Filings: Helping clients file past due tax returns and working to reduce penalties.
  • Installment Agreements and Offers in Compromise: Negotiating feasible payment plans and offers in compromise with the IRS.
  • Penalty Abatement and IRS Appeals: Seeking to reduce or eliminate IRS-imposed penalties and representing clients in tax appeals.
  • Taxation of Gambling Winnings: Advising on reporting and minimizing taxes on gambling winnings.
  • Capital Gains Tax Clarification: As evidenced by a customer review, the firm provides crucial clarification on complex tax implications, such as capital gains exemption for Green Card Holders versus Naturalized Citizens. This demonstrates their deep understanding of nuanced tax laws and their willingness to assist even non-clients with critical information, asking for nothing in return but a good reference. This highlights their commitment to community support and ethical practice.
  • Business Planning and Payroll Tax Problems: Offering tax planning services for businesses and resolving payroll tax issues to avoid further IRS action.
• Other Legal Areas: While primarily focused on bankruptcy and tax law, information from public sources also indicates that Sterbick And Associates handles matters related to personal injury, wills and estate planning, probate, medical directives, settlement, elder law, and powers of attorney. This broadens their scope as a comprehensive legal resource.

Several features distinguish Sterbick And Associates in the legal landscape:

• Dual Expertise in Tax and Bankruptcy Law: John Sterbick is noted for his rare combined knowledge of both tax and bankruptcy law. This integrated understanding is a significant advantage for clients, as many tax debts can be discharged through bankruptcy, and having an attorney proficient in both areas ensures a holistic approach to financial challenges.
• Client-Centered Approach: The firm consistently receives praise for its client-first philosophy. Reviews highlight the staff's professionalism, helpfulness, and ability to make stressful situations manageable. Clients feel respected and cared for, which is invaluable during difficult legal processes.
• Proven Track Record: With nearly three decades of experience, John Sterbick and his team have a demonstrated history of success in resolving complex tax problems and achieving favorable outcomes in bankruptcy cases, including discharging millions of dollars in IRS debt for clients.
• Accessibility and Responsiveness: The firm offers free consultations and is noted for being responsive to client inquiries, often addressing questions promptly and effectively.

The firm actively promotes its services by emphasizing its core strengths: expertise in tax and bankruptcy law, compassionate client care, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes. They encourage potential clients to take the first step towards financial freedom by scheduling a risk-free consultation.

Customer reviews consistently underscore the firm's excellence. One client lauded John Sterbick and his team as "absolutely excellent," praising their patience, professionalism, and clear communication throughout a bankruptcy process. The reasonable fees and knowledgeable guidance were highlighted as making a stressful situation much more manageable, with all deadlines met exactly as promised. The staff was described as "fantastic—courteous, professional, and always willing to help." This client unequivocally recommends John Sterbick and his team for their caring approach and outstanding service at a reasonable price, calling him "awesome!"

Another compelling review speaks volumes about the firm's integrity and helpfulness beyond typical client engagement. A non-client sought clarification on capital gains tax implications for a Green Card Holder versus a Naturalized Citizen. Patty at the firm facilitated the conversation, and John Sterbick himself called back to provide the necessary information, asking for nothing in return but a good reference. This act of genuine assistance in a "world of deceit, greed and chaos" renewed the client's "faith in the existence of good, honest and genuinely helpful people," leading to a strong recommendation for anyone needing their services.

These testimonials collectively paint a picture of a legal practice that not only delivers effective results but also upholds high ethical standards and demonstrates genuine care for individuals in need.

In summary, Sterbick And Associates is a highly reputable legal firm in Tacoma, WA, distinguished by its specialized expertise in bankruptcy and tax law. Through a compassionate and client-focused approach, they provide comprehensive services, navigating complex financial challenges with clarity and professionalism, making them a valuable asset to the "Lawyers Near Me" category.