Bankruptcy is a highly specialized area of law and it can be more complex that it appears at first glance. The issues associated with bankruptcy are not always simple and apparent. Getting the help of a competent bankruptcy lawyer can enable you to work through the implications and issues related with your decisions.
Here are some basic tips on how to find a lawyer:
• First, remember that you will need to work with your bankruptcy lawyer through the process so it is essential for you to pick a lawyer you are comfortable with.
• Pick a lawyer that specializes in this field or who has a large practice in bankruptcy.
• Local bar associations also have referral panels you can look into. Search for them in your phone book and ask about their experiences with a case similar to yours.
• Don’t be intimidated to interview the lawyer; you can leave without retaining him or her if you are not comfortable with them.
Getting a Written Agreement
It is important for both parties to be clear on what types of services are included in the quoted rate:
• Are disputes with trustee included?
• Are lien avoidance issues included?
• No-dischargeability actions?
Most of the time, the flat fee will only cover the standard services that are foreseeable in the bankruptcy case. So when there is a challenge to the discharge of your debt, more legal fees may need to be charged.
Making the Most of the Bankruptcy Lawyer’s Expertise
Try to disclose everything to the lawyer. Without all information, the lawyer cannot protect your rights. Failing to tell the lawyer about important issues related to bankruptcy can created problems even when none had existed before.
Read the representation agreement, the court notices, the draft schedules, and any communication from your lawyer carefully. If you don’t understand any aspect of the information, try to clear it out with the lawyer.
Provide prompt responses and feedback when it is requested. This will enable you to meet court deadlines.
Be responsible for your case. You are the one who will be most affected by the outcome of the bankruptcy case. Remember that the lawyer can only file the bankruptcy with you but they cannot file it for you.
As you can see, getting a bankruptcy lawyer can definitely help you with your case. But it is important to keep in mind that you should not rely on them entirely because they are only there to assist you.
