Filing for bankruptcy is one of the most important financial decisions that you may ever make. The consequences and implications of a bankruptcy filing will have far-reaching effects on you for years to come. Just as important as your decision to file for bankruptcy is your decision of which bankruptcy attorney will represent you. While it may appear that all lawyers are the same, they are not. For this reason, it is important that you select someone that is not only going to vigorously represent you but who also meshes with your communication style and expectations. Here’s a few helpful tips on how to choose the right bankruptcy lawyer for you, and what you can expect from your bankruptcy lawyer.

Do I Need A Bankruptcy Attorney?

While it is certainly possible to file for bankruptcy without an attorney, in most scenarios it is not recommended. Filing deadlines and court appearances are best handled by a trained professional at the helm. If you are not the type of person that is well organized, then having someone else stay on top of your case may be ideal. In addition, updates to the bankruptcy code and jurisdictional rules are not always easily discovered or understood by a non-lawyer. If you hire a lawyer, then you can get peace of mind in knowing that a professional who knows the law is handling your affairs.

Another key component that you must consider when deciding to hire a bankruptcy attorney is whether or not you should be filing bankruptcy at all. Consulting with a bankruptcy attorney may provide you with clarity in that regard as the attorney might advise you to pursue alternative methods to bankruptcy to resolve your financial dilemma. Your attorney should be able to assess your financial picture and recommend the best option for your specific situation. If bankruptcy is the best option, then your attorney will be able to discern which type will best fit your needs since there may be several different types of bankruptcy that are available to you.

How Do I Choose The Right Bankruptcy Attorney Near Me?

There is no magic answer to which attorney will work best for you but there are a few things that you should look for in selecting an attorney. As mentioned earlier, communication is a vital aspect of any relationship. Some attorneys prefer in-person meetings while others work best via phone or email. An attorney who is attentive to your needs and inquiries can make you feel informed and involved in your bankruptcy case. Making sure that you and your attorney are on the same page in regard to communication is critical for developing a collaborative attorney-client relationship.

You should also consider selecting an attorney that is familiar with the rules and regulations that apply to your local jurisdiction. This could be an attorney who has extensive experience representing bankruptcy clients in the area where you may be filing your case. These lawyers, unlike those who claim to practice all over the country, are more likely to be up to speed on any changes in the law that affect filings in your specific area.

Also, many lawyers have websites where they post client reviews – and those reviews could at least alert you to who the bad lawyers may be. Obviously, an attorney with overwhelmingly negative reviews may not be a viable candidate to represent you. Similarly, mixed reviews may not indicate the true efficacy of the attorney as people are more prone to complain about negative experiences than positive ones. Ratings should not be the only thing that you consider, but they can be helpful.

What About Fees?

The cost of the attorney’s representation can be a determinative factor in choosing your attorney as you will most likely be on a budget. But the fee should not be the only factor that you consider. One of the more overlooked areas of attorney’s fees is the fee structure. Some attorneys charge a flat rate while others bill hourly. Attorneys that bill hourly will often charge for most every interaction that you have with them. This includes phone calls and emails. Court appearances generally carry a higher hourly rate as compared to other services.

It is not uncommon for attorney’s fees to be built into your bankruptcy decree. In the event that you are filing for Chapter 13 bankruptcy, your monthly repayment plan may include your attorney’s fee. Whatever the case may be, before you select an attorney, have them specifically outline what the fee will be and how it must be paid.

Additional Considerations

Your bankruptcy case and how it is handled should be a matter of extreme importance to you. The attorney you select should be someone who you respect and who respects you. Many attorneys offer free consultations thereby eliminating any risk of wasting your money on shopping around. Remember that your financial future is at stake when facing bankruptcy, so putting in the time and energy in selecting the best attorney is worthwhile.

Florida Bankruptcy Attorneys Can Help

If you are thinking of filing for bankruptcy, modifying your mortgage, or are facing overwhelming credit card or student loan debt, The Bankruptcy Team, PLLC can help you. Our experienced attorneys will thoroughly review your situation and advise you about meaningful solutions.  To consult with The Bankruptcy Team, PLLC, call or contact us today.