When considering something as serious as declaring bankruptcy, it’s important not to make an uninformed or ill considered decision. Often the first step is to identify what kind of bankruptcy you’ll be filing for. Whether you’ll be filing for chapter 7, or you’ll need a chapter 13 bankruptcy attorney, it’s vital to find a bankruptcy attorney who will best represent you.
While shopping for bankruptcy attorneys, the most important thing is to have a clear idea of what to expect from them. It’s true that each bankruptcy case may not be exactly the same, but it’s pretty much guaranteed that your bankruptcy is not completely unique. To ensure your attorney has the required familiarity and competency levels you need, you should have a clear outline of the details and facts of your case ready for them to review. After they’ve studied the details of your case, check to see if, in the past, they’ve represented clients with similar histories. The more experience they have, the sounder the advice they’ll give.
You’re going to be relying a lot on your lawyer, and so it’s an excellent idea to consider several different bankruptcy attorneys before making your final decision. Once you have made your choice after consulting with a variety of bankruptcy attorneys, then it’s time to really buckle down and establish a plan to tackle your bankruptcy. Bankruptcy attorneys will be able to advise on whether filing for chapter 7 or chapter 13 is right for you. They can also prepare you for what to expect during the process, as they’ll have detailed knowledge of the local rulings and procedures. In addition, bankruptcy attorneys can prepare you for any possible bumps in the road or delays that may occur during your proceedings.
Bankruptcy attorneys will then really set your case in motion by helping you to fill out and file your paperwork, and then represent you at any necessary court hearings.
Once started, many bankruptcy cases proceed smoothly, others are more complex and have bumpier roads to the finish line. Either way, your bankruptcy lawyer will be your partner in resolving your (most likely) occasionally frustrating bankruptcy case. So, remember, when choosing your bankruptcy attorney you’re picking the most valuable player of your team, and don’t choose lightly!
