Level One Law Accused of Fraud and Legal Malpractice by Tennessee Woman

Case Information

• Filing Date: March 12, 2025
• Court: U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida (Tampa Division)
• Plaintiff: Ruby E. Pineda
• Defendant: Michel Law, LLC, d/b/a Level One Law
• Case No.: 8:25-cv-00587

Allegations at a Glance

Ruby Pineda, a Tennessee resident facing financial hardship due to medical issues, alleges that Level One Law misled her into a debt relief program that ultimately worsened her financial situation. Despite paying over $21,000 into the program, she claims the firm failed to settle her debts, improve her credit, or provide the promised legal support.

Key Allegations

• Defendant promised to negotiate debts and improve Plaintiff’s credit score.
• Plaintiff enrolled $59,471 of debt and made monthly payments of $877.27.
• Only 1% of Plaintiff’s debt was resolved over nearly two years.
• Defendant misled Plaintiff about ongoing negotiations with creditors.
• Defendant allegedly continued withdrawing funds even after ceasing services.
• Plaintiff suffered financial harm, emotional distress, and credit damage.

Legal Claims

Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA) – deceptive practices, premature charges, and missing required disclosures
Tennessee Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) – unfair and deceptive business practices
Fraud – intentional misrepresentations regarding debt and credit services
Negligent Misrepresentation – false promises made without proper care
Legal Malpractice – breach of attorney duties to client
Breach of Contract – failure to perform agreed-upon debt resolution services
Breach of Fiduciary Duty – mismanagement of funds and prioritization of firm’s interests over Plaintiff’s

Relief Sought

Actual damages for financial losses and emotional distress
Punitive damages for willful misconduct
Attorney’s fees and court costs
Injunctive and equitable relief as deemed appropriate

The Bottom Line

This case highlights the potential risks of enrolling in debt relief programs without full transparency and accountability. Consumers are urged to thoroughly vet such services—especially those involving legal representation—before entrusting firms with their financial future.

Legal Disclaimer

All claims outlined in this lawsuit are allegations only. The defendant has not yet responded in court. Cases may be dismissed, settled, or otherwise resolved without a finding of liability.

Update

The Research Department provides clear, fact-based summaries of newly filed legal complaints, highlighting key case details, allegations, and legal claims. These reports focus strictly on the claims made in court filings and do not include responses from defendants. Committed to neutrality and readability, the Research Department ensures that legal disputes are documented in an accessible, structured format without speculation on case outcomes. Important Note: Lawsuits are allegations and may be dismissed, settled, or withdrawn.