I signed a "retainer" with Safaie and Associates (later modbylawyers) to have a loan modification performed on my behalf by lawyers. I paid $3600 and and I thought I would have much better chance to be successful with a lawyer representing my case. They offered fast turn around, a refund if unsuccessful, and they said because they screened their clients, they were 91% successful. They offered excellent communication with me initially. However, the person handling my case changed frequently and I was not kept informed about the progress or status. At some point I was told I was eligible for Obama's "Making Homes Affordable" program, but apparently my file was never submitted under this program. Eventually, I had trouble even learning the name of person who was supposed to be helping me. It has been 10 months and no one even answers my phone calls. I do not live in the area of their office, so I am unable to go in and speak to a live person. I cannot get a refund if no one talks to me. Do not fall for these people. They may help a few people, but if they fail to get your loan modified, you will be out of time to do anything yourself and out of a lot of money!