4 Bankruptcy Questions To Ask Your Attorney Before Filing
If you think that being bankrupt is the worst thing that could happen to you, think again. Hiring the wrong attorney to handle your bankruptcy case could create an even bigger nightmare! Don't stress though -- this is a preventable scenario. Before hiring, you should do some research and make sure that you find an attorney who makes you feel comfortable and confident. Facts about selecting bankruptcy attorneys: A lot of attorneys are overworked so they aren’t able to give ear to full details of your case. If you chose an overworked attorney you may feel that he or she isn’t pursuing your case the way you wanted. If this happens you'll ultimately feel irritated.
Many attorneys aren’t qualified enough to lead a bankruptcy case. So such attorneys will not fulfill your expectations. Certifications can be an important indicator to help judge whether the attorney is qualified enough or not. Asking a friend won’t take you to a good bankruptcy lawyer, unless he or she has filed for bankruptcy. However, it could be useful to take advice or receive a recommendation from a legal professional. You can even go to a bankruptcy court and observe the attorneys there. Maybe during your observation, you will find some attorneys who you feel will meet your needs. Once you find an attorney, you can satisfy yourself completely by asking him or her the right questions. A short conversation can tell you a lot about the attorney you have chosen. Ask the attorney about his or her expertise and inquire into their working and consultation hours. After the conversation, you can evaluate the attorney and decide whether he or she is really right for you.
1. Which type of bankruptcy should I file? Once you select an attorney, you must discuss with him or her what type of bankruptcy you should file. There are different types of bankruptcy. Your attorney will point out which type best suits your particular situation.
2. Where and how do I file for bankruptcy? Secondly, you need to ask him or her how you can file for bankruptcy. You have to file for your bankruptcy in the state where you are living. The attorney can prepare the necessary paperwork that would be needed to present to the courts.
3. What is it going to cost me?
Thirdly, you must know the fees that are involved in the filing for bankruptcy. The total fees will comprise of the attorney’s fees plus the court fees that you need to submit to file for your bankruptcy.
4. What effects will bankruptcy have on my financial situation and my life moving forward?
Finally you must know the after effects of filing for bankruptcy. As soon as you file for bankruptcy, creditors will receive notification from the courts and will not be allowed to contact debtor for payments. A hearing in court will be set. The case will proceed depending on type of bankruptcy filed. Remember that this is your fight, so you have to be really involved in it and follow the case. You just cannot leave everything on the attorney!
If you’d like to learn more: call us to speak directly with an attorney for a free, no obligation, consultation to see if you qualify for bankruptcy and if it is the right decision for you and your family or your business.
Wessler Law Firm is a small family owned law firm specializing in bankruptcy law since 1982.
228-863-3686
Disclaimer: This article is meant for reference only, and is not intended to be legal advice.
For legal counsel regarding your situation, please consult an attorney licensed in your state.
