Many people who once bought a timeshare eventually find themselves feeling trapped – stuck paying maintenance fees, annual dues, and unable to use the property as often as they expected. For those owners seeking a way out, Encore Law has positioned itself as a specialist in timeshare exit services, promising to help clients escape their timeshare contracts and even recover fees. But, like many companies in this niche, Encore Law attracts both supporters and critics. This topic explores what Encore Law offers, what reviews and complaints reveal, and what potential clients should know before trusting a timeshare exit service.
What Is Encore Law and What Services Does It Claim to Provide
Encore Law reportedly began operations in 2007 and markets itself as a timeshare exit firm dedicated to helping owners cancel their contracts and avoid future financial obligations. According to their own statements, the firm offers services such as contract review, negotiation with timeshare developers, title transfer or release of ownership, and efforts to secure refunds or cancellation of maintenance fees.
Their advertised strengths include
- Experience and familiarity with many major timeshare developers and resort brands.
- A legal-network approach – meaning they claim to have attorneys or legal professionals available to handle tougher cases such as contract misrepresentation or complicated deed-related issues.
- A promise of client-tailored support and a pathway out of timeshare obligations, including the possibility of refunds for deposits or fees paid.
- An offer of free initial consultation for interested timeshare owners.
For some clients, these services result in relief from ongoing maintenance fees and official confirmation of contract termination – an outcome many find worth the cost and effort.
Positive Reviews and Success Stories
There are clients who report satisfaction with Encore Law’s services. According to a review compilation, the firm claims to have helped clients recover over $20 million in refunds and successfully exit their timeshare contracts over the last decade.
Some reviewers describe a smooth process, clear communication, and relief from years of financial burden. For example, one client recounted receiving an official termination letter within about four months after engaging Encore Law – resulting in freedom from maintenance fees that previously felt like a ball and chain.
On the firm’s Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile, there are also positive acknowledgments from clients who claim Encore Law helped them successfully escape timeshare obligations and regain peace of mind.
Criticisms, Complaints, and Risks What Some Clients Say Went Wrong
Despite positive stories, there is a significant volume of complaints and criticism aimed at Encore Law – raising serious red flags for potential clients.
Major Concerns and Critiques
- No Escrow for PaymentsOne of the major critiques is that Encore Law reportedly does not use a third-party escrow to hold client funds. Instead, fees are paid upfront – meaning clients bear all the financial risk if the exit process stalls or fails.
- Mixed Success Rate and State ActionsAlthough the company claims many successes, watchdog reviews suggest a disproportionately high number of unresolved complaints. For instance, a recent state-level settlement barred them from offering services in a particular state due to licensing or compliance issues.
- Slow Response or Radio SilenceMultiple complaints describe long periods without contact, unanswered messages, and delays beyond promised timeframes – sometimes even beyond 18 months after contract signing.
- Costly Upfront FeesCustomers often report expenses in the range of $12,000-$16,000 for each deed they wish to cancel – a significant financial commitment, especially for those already struggling with maintenance fees.
- Limited GuaranteesInstead of offering a clear money-back guarantee, Encore Law’s safety net is often merely a promise to pick up maintenance fees themselves if the exit drags on – but only under strict conditions, and sometimes still limited in amount.
One complainant described paying thousands of dollars, being promised a release within 6-8 months, and then receiving little to no communication – leading them to suspect they’d been scammed.
Given the spread of complaints and the serious allegations – including licensing issues and deceptive marketing – the reputation of Encore Law remains controversial among timeshare owners and consumer-advocacy groups.
What Independent Reviews and Watchdog Sites Say
Third-party reviews and watchdog websites paint a mixed picture. Some highlight Encore Law’s legitimate corporate registration and presence of attorneys on retainer.
However, many recommend caution. Critics emphasize that paying upfront without escrow is risky, especially given that a company’s public rating or accreditations (like those from BBB) may not fully reflect unresolved complaints or past regulatory actions.
One widely cited problem is that clients often feel stranded after paying for services, reporting poor communication, long delays, or failure to progress with title releases. For some, the process becomes drawn out for so long that the promise of exit in months becomes unrealistic.
What to Consider Before Hiring a Timeshare Exit Service Like Encore Law
If you own a timeshare and seriously consider using Encore Law or a similar service, here are some critical questions and precautions to weigh
- Does the contract require full upfront payment? If so, are you comfortable with the risk if the exit process stalls?
- Is there escrow or third-party holding of your money until services are rendered? If not, you might carry the risk entirely.
- Do you fully understand all contract terms, including what qualifies as successful exit, what happens if the resort refuses to cooperate, and what happens if deadlines are missed?
- Have you checked for any regulatory actions, lawsuits, or complaints filed against the company in your state or nationwide? Past settlements may signal risk.
- Are you aware of potential delays, extra costs (e.g. deed transfer fees), or continuing obligations even after the exit process ends?
- Could you achieve a similar outcome by contacting the resort directly – or by refinancing, renting, or selling – instead of paying for an exit service?
Taking time to research, ask tough questions, and even consult independent legal advice can help you avoid making a costly mistake under pressure.
A Mixed Record – Use Caution and Do Your Homework
Encore Law presents itself as a serious, attorney-backed timeshare exit firm with a record of refunds and successful releases. For some clients, their services may indeed offer a real way out of burdensome timeshare obligations and financial pressure.
At the same time, the large number of complaints, absence of escrow protections, upfront payment requirements, and evidence of regulatory scrutiny underline significant risks.
For anyone considering Encore Law – or any similar timeshare exit service – the best advice is to proceed carefully. Read all contracts thoroughly, demand escrow when possible, research any public complaints or regulatory actions, and consider alternative exit strategies. With timeshare exit services, it matters greatly whether you enter well-informed – because the financial and emotional stakes can be high.