Do I Even Need Help From a Bankruptcy Attorney?
If you are considering bankruptcy, the last thing you might be thinking is paying to get help, but that is precisely what you need. Your ability to pay your bills on time has been compromised, and professional guidance is not only available but also necessary. So what can you do when you are unable to pay your bills? Many people contact an attorney who specializes in bankruptcy law, one that knows the ins and outs associated with bankruptcy procedure, and has the extensive experience needed to navigate the bankruptcy process.
What Questions Should I Ask, Going Into Bankruptcy?
Before you proceed with a bankruptcy attorney, you should make sure that you are getting the best service. There are questions you must ask yourself or your lawyer that show whether your lawyer is competent and has extensive experience.
Competent Legal Advice
Should you file for bankruptcy?
An explanation of what type of bankruptcy should you file, Chapter 7 or Chapter 13.
Based on your finances and your desire to keep certain property, what does your lawyer recommend?
Based on the business you own, your lawyer should have specific advice to offer.
What will the lawyer recommend if creditors dispute (litigate) the bankruptcy discharge?
Can you expect that your bankruptcy case will have any unusual obstacles or uncertainties?
Extensive Experience
Has the lawyer had much experience with bankruptcies, and how much?
Has the lawyer represented other people with very similar bankruptcy situations?
What Should I Expect From My Bankruptcy Lawyer?
Frequent Lawyer Updates
It’s essential that your attorney remain in contact with you throughout the bankruptcy process. Bankruptcy trustees may require additional information or paperwork from you, and one or more of the creditors may have questions or issues that need to be promptly addressed. It is crucial that your attorney keep in contact so that the bankruptcy process isn’t held up. If bankruptcy is delayed for too long, you may have to refile and start the process over.
Paperwork Preparation
When you initially file for bankruptcy, your attorney will fill out paperwork based on the information you provide. Generally, attorneys utilize bankruptcy software that makes the filing process more manageable. Although you give the information to your attorney, it is their responsibility to make sure the bankruptcy trustee can easily verify the information you provide.
Representation at Bankruptcy Hearings
One of the many jobs your attorney has is to represent you during the bankruptcy hearings. You and your attorney will need to attend creditor hearings and there will be hearings that your attorney will attend on his/her own. Also, there will be times that you could go to a hearing, but your attorney recommends that you not. That recommendation will be made based on the attorney’s considerable knowledge and experience in handling bankruptcy cases.
Before you decide on a bankruptcy attorney, think long and hard about the lawyer you will hire and what the he or she can do for you. Not all attorneys will be able to provide the same amount of bankruptcy experience and expertise. The bankruptcy process can be complicated and has many nuances. Whenever possible, it is best to hire an attorney who frequently files bankruptcies for their clients and has the experience needed to navigate the bankruptcy system.
If you have any questions about bankruptcy or want a free consultation, contact Robert H. Solomon, PC, Attorneys at Law through our online form or by calling us at (516) 407-8199 to find out what your options are.