Filing for bankruptcy is complicated as well as, by definition, emotionally trying. It can be even more complicated if somebody may challenge your bankruptcy or if you are missing crucial tax documents. Understandably, hiring a bankruptcy attorney with an intimate understanding of Chapter 7 as well as Chapter 13 bankruptcy is probably a wise move to make.
While anybody with any decent amount of legal training will probably have a better chance of helping your case than somebody with no legal training, you should still look for an attorney who focuses specifically on bankruptcy law. Any honest attorney will admit that a personal injury attorney, for example, simply cannot perform as well on a bankruptcy case as a bankruptcy attorney can (and vice-versa).The law is just too broad and diverse for you to bet on somebody whose practice is not focused exclusively on bankruptcy law and related areas.
An experienced bankruptcy attorney will be able to help you stay on top of all the documentation and paperwork that will be associated with your case. The lawyer will have infinitely more inside knowledge than you do on the local courts’ typical procedures and practices. Above all, the backing of a competent bankruptcy attorney will mean the peace of mind that comes with the support of somebody who can accurately and thoroughly every question you will have during this difficult time.
However, the great paradox of bankruptcy attorneys is this: (1) you probably cannot afford to spend a ton on legal fees, and (2) you probably have too little legal experience to know what makes one bankruptcy attorney better than another. Below, you’ll find tips you’ll need on an attorney search if you ever consider filing for bankruptcy protection.
While you will be better served by a bankruptcy attorney than by a general practitioner or a lawyer who focuses on an unrelated area of law, you should still try to find the most experienced bankruptcy lawyer possible. The plain truth is that not all bankruptcy attorneys were created equal. Solicit recommendations from people you are close to, or referrals from other attorneys and bar associations.
Board certified attorneys have being vetted by a third party and proven themselves as experienced and successful lawyers in the field. Even if you cannot find a board certified attorney, you should still be on the lookout for somebody who is familiar not only with federal bankruptcy laws, but with local regulations. Look for an attorney that is sufficiently experienced and cost effective for a case of your complexity.
After experience and reasonable fees, you should consider that character of your attorney. The sad fact is that some attorneys are just no good at returning calls. In a bankruptcy case, there is a ton of legal paperwork to file and strict deadlines to meet. Even if the attorney is highly experienced, do not hesitate to look elsewhere if he or she seems difficult to get in touch with.
Image courtesy of David Castillo Dominici /FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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