2. If you are being hounded by creditors on a daily basis and
feel more and more closed in upon, bankruptcy may be an
option worth considering. However, if you panic and choose
a bankruptcy attorney based merely on price or an ad you
see on television or the Internet, you could be in store for a
great deal of long-term frustration. Take a breath and make
your choice a wise one.
3. Get it in Writing
Make sure that you know exactly what your bankruptcy attorney will do for you
before signing any sort of representation agreement. If you're going through
Chapter 7 liquidation or Chapter 13 personal reorganization, the agreement will
more than likely be relatively standard. You still need to make sure, however, that
the agreement includes services such as consultations, analysis of your finances,
petition preparation and client review, follow-ups with creditors, and representation
at any hearings.
There is a possibility that any flat fee you may pay will not include representation
should a creditor challenge your filing, so make sure you know up front what sort of
charges will be associated with this type of service. The chances are low this sort of
event will take place, but the last thing you need is any surprises.
4. Don't Let Price Be Your Sole
Determining Factor
If you choose a lawyer based only on price, you could be making a very bad
mistake. Be wary if you see pricing that is much lower than what other
lawyers in your area charge. This could be a sign that the representative will
cut corners on your case or does not even concentrate in this area of practice.
Most reputable lawyers will not discuss fees over the phone without first
providing you with a comprehensive consultation discussing all aspects of
your case.
5. Make Sure Your Specific Needs Are
Addressed
Sometimes, a bankruptcy attorney will take a churn and burn approach. They
are more concerned with volume than providing quality representation, so
they'll work as quickly as possible to get through as many cases as possible.
These types of lawyers don't take the time to meet a client's specific needs,
and in many instances, their work is suspect at best.
It can be very difficult for a non-lawyer to know when he or she is dealing
with one of these kinds of firms. One good way of avoiding this is by calling
your area bar association and seeing if you can get recommendations on a
reliable lawyer.
