Surplus Funds Lawyer Fees in NJ: Risk‑Free & Effortless
After a foreclosure, you shouldn’t have to spend money to get money. At Friscia & Associates, we operate on a simple promise: We only get paid if we successfully put a check in your hand.
Contingency‑Based Representation: How It Works
Our firm works on a strict contingency fee basis. This aligns our interests with yours—we are motivated to get you the maximum amount possible, as quickly as possible.
- Zero Upfront Cost: You pay $0 to start. We advance all filing fees, court costs, title search expenses, and courier charges.
- No Risk: If for any reason the court denies the motion or funds are not recovered, you owe us nothing. We absorb the loss.
- Paid from Proceeds: Our fee comes directly from the surplus check at the very end. You never have to write us a check.
Transparency: What Expenses Do We Advance?
Many clients worry about “hidden costs” eating up their recovery. We believe in total transparency. When we handle your case, we pay for these necessary items out of our own pocket first:
- Full Title Search ($150 – $300 value): Essential to identify all potential creditors and liens.
- Motion Filing Fees ($50+): The mandatory fees paid to the Superior Court Clerk.
- Service of Process: The cost of certified mail and private process servers to notify all parties.
- Certificate of Regularity: The final court document required to unlock the funds.
Note: These hard costs are reimbursed from the gross recovery only if we win.
Why Hire a Law Firm vs. a “Recovery Company”?
You may receive letters from non-attorney “Surplus Locators” or “Asset Recovery Specialists.” It is critical to understand the difference before you sign their contracts:
| Feature | Friscia & Associates (Law Firm) | “Locator” Company |
|---|---|---|
| Court Representation | Yes. We argue directly to the Judge. | No. They cannot practice law. |
| Fund Security | Funds held in regulated Attorney Trust Account (IOLTA). | Funds often go to their private business account. |
| Hidden Fees | None. Capped by Court Rules. | Often charge extra “processing” fees. |
Why DIY Is Risky—Mistakes Can Cost You Everything
While you can file a motion yourself, the court treats pro-se litigants to the same strict standards as attorneys. One small error can result in a denial “without prejudice,” sending you to the back of the line.
- Complex Service Rules: Court Rule 4:64-3 requires you to identify and serve every single party who had an interest in the property. Missing one creditor can kill your case.
- Competing Liens: If a bank or judgment creditor fights your claim, do you know the case law to defeat them? We do.
- The “Runaround”: The Trust Fund Unit frequently rejects payout forms for minor clerical errors. We know exactly what they look for to ensure approval.
We Handle Everything—From Start to Check‑in‑Hand
- Investigation: We verify the exact surplus amount and run a full title search to spot issues early.
- Filing & Service: We draft the motion and personally serve all required parties.
- Hearings: We attend all court appearances (virtual or in-person) to fight for your money.
- Payout Logistics: We secure the court order, process the Trust Fund release, and overnight your check.
Frequently Asked Questions on Fees
Q: What percentage do you charge?
A: Fees are generally capped by New Jersey Court Rules at a reasonable percentage of the recovery. Call us for a specific quote—it is often lower than you think.
Q: Are there any hidden “admin” fees?
A: No. Our contingency percentage covers our time, overhead, and legal work. We prioritize transparency.
What to Expect When You Call
We know calling a lawyer can be intimidating. Here is exactly what happens during your free initial consultation:
- No Sales Pressure: You will speak directly with a legal professional, not a telemarketer.
- Fast Answers: In most cases, we can look up your case and give you a preliminary “Yes/No” on eligibility in under 5 minutes.
- Zero Obligation: If you decide not to proceed, you owe us nothing. We will simply explain your options and let you decide.
Free Eligibility Check
Call (973) 500‑8024
or email [email protected]
Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Attorney Advertising. Friscia & Associates LLC | 199 Wilson Ave., Suite A, Newark, NJ 07105.
