How to find the right bankruptcy attorney
I’m going to assume that you are looking for a bankruptcy attorney because you have already exhausted all other possibilities to avoid filing for bankruptcy. If you have not already done so, I highly recommend that you thoroughly research all other options and alternatives, as bankruptcy should be viewed only as your last resort. Filing for bankruptcy will stay on your credit report for 7-10 years, and will be a major red flag every time you apply for credit or a loan in the future, as well as the possibility that you will not get a new job. based on a credit report made on you.
It is not entirely necessary to hire an attorney or attorney when filing for bankruptcy, but in the vast majority of cases, it is highly recommended to do so. The various legal forms and requirements can be a full-time job for someone not intimately familiar with the legal system, and one wrong move can mean the difference between favorable terms, or perhaps even terms that put you in a worse situation. of which it is. now.
Even with all bankruptcy attorneys combined, not all bankruptcy attorneys specialize in the same types of cases, so be sure to find an attorney who is very familiar with the type of financial difficulties you face. Unfortunately, this is not as easy as flipping through the yellow pages and browsing page after page of attorney listings. Our website contains a form where you can identify your specific situation and then be referred to a bankruptcy attorney who is LOCAL for you and who is familiar with your particular type of situation and circumstances.
When you meet with the bankruptcy attorney, you want to maximize both their time and yours, so be sure to take all relevant information with you. Bring a list of all creditors, your required monthly payment for each, the current outstanding balance for each, account numbers and the status of each debt in terms of being current, 30 days past due, 60 days past due, etc. . Also provide information about the creditors you have spoken with, as well as any particular arrangements you have already made with any of these creditors.
Your bankruptcy attorney can prevent you from being harassed by creditors, and this can begin immediately after you have engaged their services. With all the stress of this type of financial situation, the constant phone calls from creditors, with each call more threatening or sinister than the last, can add a great deal of additional stress that you simply don’t need right now in your situation. .
Your bankruptcy attorney will be familiar with the new laws that affect bankruptcy filings. It’s not as easy to file for bankruptcy today as it was a few years ago. In some situations, you may need to go through credit counseling before you are allowed to file for bankruptcy. In fact, after becoming familiar with your specific situation, your attorney may recommend other options or alternatives in lieu of bankruptcy, perhaps options that you had not previously considered.
In summary, keep in mind that just because someone has passed the bar exam does not mean that they can be a competent bankruptcy attorney. Be sure to find one that specializes in your particular type of bankruptcy to get your best bet on resolving this situation in the easiest way and with the least amount of pain possible.
