More than 500,000 families file for bankruptcy every year. Common causes include medical bills, job loss, or divorce.
While it may lower your credit rating, it means that your creditors will no longer be able to take legal action against you.
How do you file for bankruptcy? There are two choices—you can either file it yourself or hire a bankruptcy lawyer.
Thinking of doing the latter? Want to know how to find an affordable bankruptcy attorney? If so, you’re on the right page. We’ll be going over all the details that you need to know below.
Keep reading to learn more!
What Is a Bankruptcy Attorney?
A bankruptcy attorney specializes in the bankruptcy process. Generally speaking, they either focus on consumer bankruptcy (representing creditors or individuals) or in commercial bankruptcy.
For example, they can guide you through the procedures and paperwork. Not only that, but they can help you if a creditor decides to oppose your discharge.
4 Tips For Finding an Affordable Bankruptcy Attorney
Not all attorneys are the same. Here are a few things to consider if you’re looking for one.
- Don’t Procrastinate
Don’t wait around. You want to begin your search for a good lawyer as soon as you know that you’ll need one.
Waiting until the last minute means that you won’t have the time to research your options. Not to mention that your attorney won’t have enough time to prepare for your case.
- Don’t Hire the Cheapest Lawyer
You get what you pay for when it comes to hiring a lawyer. Given that, it might not be a good idea to hire the cheapest attorney that you can find.
After all, you want someone who knows the system and will be able to do a good job of representing you. Understandably, that can cost you a bit more.
- Visit A Few Offices
Once you’ve found a few lawyers that you’re interested in, you can schedule a few appointments. Most would be happy to give you a free consultation.
If you want, you can also bring a list of questions with you so that you can interview them; their answers should give you a better idea as to whether or not they’re confident in their abilities.
- Ask About Hidden Fees
Most attorneys will quote you a flat fee for their services. Depending on who you choose, however, there may be hidden fees involved.
That’s why you always want to ask. The last thing that you want is to hire someone who uses bait and switch practices!
Hiring a Bankruptcy Lawyer
And there you have it—a few tips on how to find an affordable bankruptcy attorney. If anything, you always want to do your research; don’t just pick the first person you find.
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