Appearance Counsel Attorney - Debt Defense

About the Firm
J.P. Ward & Associates, LLC is a Pennsylvania based consumer protection and debt defense law firm. For more than 11 years, our firm has focused much of our practice on defending Pennsylvanians against third party debt buyers in state court. We have developed a proven litigation strategy that has resulted in success in approximately 99% of the matters we handle.

Due to continued growth, we are expanding our roster of appearance counsel across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

Position Overview
We are seeking licensed Pennsylvania attorneys to serve as appearance counsel for debt defense matters. Appearance counsel will attend hearings on behalf of our clients, primarily in Magisterial District Courts throughout Pennsylvania.

Our clients are Pennsylvania consumers who have been sued by third party debt buyers such as LVNV Funding, Midland Credit Management, Portfolio Recovery Associates, Crown Asset Management, and similar entities. These cases typically involve purchased credit card, personal loan, or retail account debts where the plaintiff must prove ownership of the account, admissible business records, and the accuracy of the alleged balance.

The vast majority of these matters are straightforward magisterial hearings governed by a repeatable procedural strategy that we have refined over more than a decade of practice. In many cases, opposing counsel lacks the necessary witnesses or documentation to meet their burden, which allows these matters to be resolved efficiently and professionally.

Training and clear written instructions are provided for every appearance. Prior debt defense experience is helpful but not required.

Areas of Current Need
While we are seeking coverage statewide, we have an immediate need for appearance counsel in the following counties:
Crawford
Erie
Centre
Blair
Cumberland
Sullivan

Attorneys located elsewhere in Pennsylvania are strongly encouraged to apply, as we are continuously expanding coverage in all regions.

Responsibilities
Appear at scheduled debt collection hearings on behalf of firm clients
Follow firm provided strategy and instructions for each case
Report outcomes and relevant details after each appearance
Maintain professionalism with court staff opposing counsel and clients

Qualifications
Active license to practice law in Pennsylvania
Good standing with the Pennsylvania Disciplinary Board
Comfort appearing in court and speaking on the record
Reliable transportation to assigned courthouses
Strong professionalism and attention to detail

What We Offer
Straightforward appearances with a highly successful and repeatable strategy
Training and ongoing support from an experienced debt defense firm
Flexible scheduling based on availability and location
Consistent volume of hearings statewide

Compensation
Compensation is competitive and based on appearance and travel considerations. Interested attorneys are encouraged to contact us directly to discuss pricing and compensation details.

How to Apply
Please contact us directly to express interest or request additional information.
Email: jh@jpward.com

We look forward to connecting with attorneys interested in efficient courtroom work and joining a firm with a long standing record of success.

Job Type: Contract

Pay: $75.00 - $100.00 per hour

Expected hours: 5 – 30 per week

Work Location: On the road