Bankruptcy is a dreaded necessity for most people for several reasons, chief among them being the lengthy and difficult process involved. Find a bankruptcy lawyer. It’s a serious deal that will take much time and energy. Below are details on how to work with a bankruptcy lawyer and the kinds of inquiries they might ask.
If you are in the process of choosing a lawyer, here is a checklist of things to ask them.
Below is a set of questions you must ask a prospective lawyer before hiring them for bankruptcy in Orlando.
Can I benefit from filing for bankruptcy?
Instead of attempting to make a quick buck, you should hire a lawyer who cares about their customers and gives them sound advice tailored to their cases. If filing for bankruptcy isn’t the best option for a client, a competent bankruptcy attorney will refer them to other resources.
When considering bankruptcy, filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is typically the best option for most people. Nonetheless, it’s prudent to seek out a lawyer who is familiar with the available options and has expertise in your specific case.
Could You Please Share Your Background in Bankruptcy Law?
Many legal companies focus on other areas of law, and bankruptcy is just an afterthought for them. Finding a lawyer who specializes in debt relief is usually a good option. Your best bet for a successful bankruptcy filing is to work with an attorney who genuinely cares and files cases every day.
In addition, some cases tend to be more complex than others. If yours is particularly complicated or includes student loans, make sure your lawyer specializes in Chapter 13 cases.
Which Chapter Should I File? 7 or 13?
Always consult with your attorney before deciding on a bankruptcy plan.
If your income falls under the bracket of below a specific threshold, your best choice may be to file for Chapter 7. If you give up most of your property in this deal, you’ll be free of most debts except for things like back taxes and college loans.
You can keep your property if you file for the option of Chapter 13 and agree to a repayment plan to pay off your obligations over three to five years.
Who will be handling my case?
You should feel comfortable and confident in your lawyer’s abilities to handle your case. Before hiring a lawyer, it is best to meet with them in person. If you want to improve your chances of filing for bankruptcy, hiring an expert lawyer to represent you is necessary. You may reduce your chances of having your case dismissed if you hire a firm that only assigns you to meet with an experienced lawyer.
What are the total costs that I will incur for filing for bankruptcy? What is included?
To minimize surprises, ensure your lawyer gives you an upfront cost estimate, including their fees and court costs. For example, the cost is $335 for Chapter 7 cases and $310 for Chapter 13 cases. Additionally, you might have to shell out extra cash for a few classes that would be required of you.
Inquire about the detailed scope of services included in the attorney’s fee and any payment plans that the lawyer is willing to establish if necessary. You should always be provided with a formal fee agreement detailing all the items you will charge. There should never be surprises, such as hidden fees, that aren’t disclosed upfront.
Conclusion
If you consult with a bankruptcy attorney about your financial situation, they should be able to advise you honestly on whether or not bankruptcy is the right choice.
An honest legal company should never suggest bankruptcy unless it is truly the best option for its clients. Before deciding, gather all the information you need and talk to an attorney about your alternatives.
