A bankruptcy attorney has the ability to guide you through the entire bankruptcy filing process. In the process of searching for the qualified professional, you want to find someone with whom you feel comfortable discussing your private financial matters, an expert in their field, and who will quote a fair price. Here are some things to consider in the process of finding an experienced bankruptcy attorney:
Make the initial contact
There are several ways to get in touch with a bankruptcy attorney, including online directories, colleagues, and friends. If you feel comfortable doing so, a recommendation from a colleague or friend is a great way to find a trusted professional.
It may be worth visiting official sites like the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers (NACBA) and the American Bar Association (ABA). They are likely to include the type of attorneys who meet the standards required to provide a high level of service.
Try to get in touch with two or three attorneys and be sure to schedule an initial conference to discuss your situation and ask relevant questions to ensure they are a good fit for your needs.
Finding a specialist who has in-depth knowledge of this specific area of law is critical to achieving the best result and avoiding issues like missing a deadline or not filing a form that could lead to a case being dismissed.
In the process of interviewing the attorney, be sure to ask questions related to their background and what specialized training they have completed. If they can provide proof of their knowledge, such as a certification issued by the American Board of Certification, this will indicate that they know how to handle a bankruptcy case. Try to find out the number of similar cases handled in the past. Additionally, a respected attorney has the ability to provide guidance on other options, such as credit counseling.
cost of services
The cost of the services quoted by the bankruptcy attorney will surely be an important consideration. A Chapter 7 filing will likely cost less than a Chapter 13 filing. The most basic Chapter 7 case may start at around $500, but will increase depending on what is involved. However, more complex Chapter-related cases can reach $6,000 or more. It’s important to get an idea of the attorney’s fee structure at the first meeting to make sure they are within your price range.
