A skilled bankruptcy attorney has the ability to guide you through the entire bankruptcy process. In the process of searching for a qualified professional, you want to find someone with whom you feel comfortable discussing your private financial matters, an expert in their field, and who will quote a fair price. Here are some things to consider in the process of finding a knowledgeable bankruptcy attorney:
Make the initial contact
There are several ways to contact a bankruptcy attorney, including online directories, colleagues, and friends. If you’re comfortable doing it, a recommendation from a colleague or friend is a great way to find a trusted professional.
It may be worth visiting official sites such as the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Lawyers (NACBA) and the American Bar Association (ABA). They are likely to include the type of lawyers who meet the standards required to provide a high level of service.
Try to get in touch with two or three attorneys and be sure to schedule an initial conference to discuss your situation and ask relevant questions to make sure they are a good fit for your needs.
Finding a specialist who has in-depth knowledge of this specific area of law is critical to achieving the best outcome and avoiding issues like missing a deadline or failure to file a form that could lead to a case being dismissed.
In the process of interviewing the lawyer, be sure to ask questions related to his background and what specialized training he has completed. If they can provide proof of their knowledge, such as a certification issued by the American Board of Certification, this will indicate that they know how to handle a bankruptcy case. Try to find out the number of similar cases handled in the past. Additionally, a respected attorney has the ability to provide guidance on other options, such as credit counseling.
Cost of services
The cost of the services quoted by the bankruptcy attorney will surely be a major consideration. A Chapter 7 filing is likely to cost less than a Chapter 13 filing. The most basic Chapter 7 case can start at around $500, but it will go up depending on what is involved. However, the most complex Chapter cases can reach $6,000 or more. It is important to get an idea of the attorney’s fee structure at the first meeting to make sure it is within your price range.