FAQS
Should I Hire A Cheap Bankruptcy Attorney?
It really depends on your financial situation. It’s almost always better to hire a cheap bankruptcy attorney than represent yourself in bankruptcy. Pro se petitioners (those who represent themselves in bankruptcy) often have difficulty at the meeting of creditors, incorrectly exempt their property, jeopardize their discharge, and run the risk of facing an adversarial proceeding. Accordingly, even indigent clients are better off hiring a bankruptcy attorney, even if that attorney is not the best in Sacramento. With that said, if the client has considerable income and assets they may be better served by a more expensive attorney with considerable experience. In essence, more complicated cases deserve the attention of experienced counsel, and experienced counsel often charge more for their services.
Why Do Some Bankruptcy Attorneys Charge More Than Others?
Bankruptcy attorneys generally charge what others are willing to pay, and adjust their prices according to expenses and caseload to maximize profit. Some solo bankruptcy attorneys charge less because they have low overhead. Other bankruptcy attorneys like Adam Garcia are able to charge less because they don’t pay for advertising and thereby gain more profit per case. In contrast, large bankruptcy firms may need to charge high fees to cover increased overhead and advertising costs. Some, though very few, bankruptcy attorneys are able to charge more because they have a reputation that clients are both aware of and willing to pay for.
How Can I Pay For Bankruptcy?
You or a third party can pay for your bankruptcy. Many bankruptcy clients have a friend or family member pay the bankruptcy attorney and court fees. Other clients use their tax refund or save up for several months. If you’re having difficulty paying for a bankruptcy attorney consider hiring an affordable bankruptcy lawyer. Also, be sure to ask the lawyer how you should save up or get the money to pay their fees. The lawyer will probably counsel you against borrowing the money and evaluate whether making more money over several months will disqualify you from chapter 7 bankruptcy. In short, call an affordable bankruptcy attorney and ask how you should pay for your bankruptcy.
Can I File Bankruptcy Today?
Maybe. If there’s a good reason to file bankruptcy ASAP your attorney can file an emergency bankruptcy petition. However, before an emergency petition can be filed you must complete credit counseling from an approved credit counseling agency.
What Should I Look For When Hiring A Bankruptcy Attorney?
Communication and expertise. You should be able to get the attorney on the phone. If you need to go through a receptionist and paralegal only to get a call back from the attorney the next day that’s not a good sign. Furthermore, the attorney should be able to explain bankruptcy in a way that you understand and listen to your questions and concerns. If they talk fast and pressure you to sign a representation agreement that’s not a good sign.
Is Filing Bankruptcy Really Necessary?
If you’re asking yourself that questions it’s a good time to speak with a bankruptcy attorney. Many bankruptcy attorneys offer free consultations, so there’s no good reason to delay exploring your legal options. Many clients contact a bankruptcy after making transactions or income that damages their case. In short, if you’re reading this you should speak with a bankruptcy attorney and then make up your mind if bankruptcy is necessary.