Find the Bankruptcy Attorney Who's Right for You

If you are thinking about filing for bankruptcy, it is important to find bankruptcy attorney that is right for you.  Whether or not your bankruptcy petition is successful will depend on the skill, knowledge and experience of the bankruptcy attorney that you choose.  Therefore, the decision to hire counsel is a personal and important one.

Contact your Local Bar Association Or Bankruptcy Court

Every county has a bar association that can recommend bankruptcy attorneys in your area.  At the bar association you can review an attorney’s educational details and how long they have been practicing bankruptcy law.  Also, your local bankruptcy court will have a list of bankruptcy attorneys in your city.  If the court has a self-help center, that can be a great resource. Finally, the state bar website has information about all attorneys that can practice law in the state, along with any complaints that have been filed againt the attorney.  The state bar website also lists how long an attorney has been practicing law and what speciality groups she is a member of.

 Free Consultation

An attorney’s experience should be the most important factor for you when searching for a bankrtupcy attorney.  Luckily, many attorneys offer free consultations.  A free consultation is a great opportunity to meet an attorney and see firsthand how knowledgeable they are.  Even if you believe your case is straightforward, it is important to know that your lawyer is sufficiently experienced.  The consultation is the time to ask questions, and see how well your bankruptcy lawyer responds.  Prepare for the consultation by bringing information regarding your debt, assets and past pay stubs

Talk to Friends

Your friends and family can be a great resource for finding a bankruptcy attorney.  While discussing your personal financial situation can be embarrassing, you may discover you have more in common with close friends and family then you imagined.  In addition, you may be able to ask more questions that are pointed about their satisfaction with their attorney.  However, if do get a referral from a close friend or relative, ensure that their attorney helped them file bankruptcy, and not a case involving another legal speciality.  

Getting Legal Help

It is important to find a bankruptcy attorney that you can trust.  Follow the suggestions in this article to find bankruptcy attorney that is right for you.