Here are five tips on how to choose a bankruptcy lawyer. I would agree with most of these suggestions. in the article.
A bankruptcy lawyer should be knowledgeable and current with the law. The Lawyer should be a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers. The number one consumer bankruptcy organization.
A bankruptcy lawyer should be someone you are comfortable with and someone you can understand. Does the bankruptcy lawyer take the time to explain everything in simple language. The lawyer should be available to answer all of your questions so that you understand the answers. Remember it is your bankruptcy case.
Will you be working with lawyers or is the lawyer too busy to meet with you ( filing too many cases? or the office procedure is set up for you to meet with staff) . Does the bankruptcy lawyer pass all of the work onto staff and paralegals? Here is when you should meet with your lawyer:
1. Your initial consultation and follow up meetings to review should be with your lawyer.
2. The signing appointment is the most important of all appointments. This is where you should be reviewing every line of the bankruptcy petition with a lawyer. Leaving the signing appointment to staff is dangerous.
3. Your bankruptcy lawyer or an associate lawyer familiar with your case should attend the meeting of creditors or the 341 meeting with you.
You should ask your lawyer at your initial meeting who will you be meeting with at every part of your case.
If you are not comfortable with your lawyer go and meet with another lawyer. Remember to ask your attorney at the initial consultation for the detailed answers as to who handles the case at each of the stages.
Cost should not be the only factor in choosing a bankruptcy lawyer. Your fees should be based on the issues in your case not a standard fee. How does the lawyer’s staff or the lawyer know what to quote you before they have met you.
Remember choosing a bankruptcy lawyer is an important decision.