Getting referrals from friends and family is a great way to start your search for a bankruptcy attorney.
It’s best to choose an attorney who specializes in bankruptcy law. This is because attorneys who dabble in multiple areas may not be up to speed on the granular aspects of bankruptcy laws.
1. Reputation
Reputations can be influenced by the way attorneys handle cases. For example, if an attorney is not transparent about their fees, it is likely that they are overcharging clients or taking advantage of them. Attorneys who specialize in bankruptcy should be able to explain their fee structure and the services they will provide during your case.
Similarly, bankruptcy attorneys who do not specialize may have limited knowledge of the law or be unqualified to represent clients. These attorneys are often called “bankruptcy mills” and should be avoided.
Many people filing for bankruptcy have questions before they meet with an attorney, and this is where blogs can be helpful. You can use blog posts to answer common questions, building trust and familiarity with your firm before a client ever steps foot into your office.
2. Experience
In addition to demonstrating the breadth and depth of their legal knowledge, an attorney’s experience can help you determine whether they are a good fit for your case. Bankruptcy is a complex process, and an experienced lawyer will be better equipped to handle the complexities that may arise.
You also want to make sure that your bankruptcy attorney has experience filing cases in your specific jurisdiction, as bankruptcy procedures vary by state and county. Avoid working with a “bankruptcy mill” that takes a cookie-cutter approach to filings, as this will not be in your best interests.
Asking for a referral from friends or family who have gone through the bankruptcy process is one of the best ways to find a trustworthy bankruptcy attorney. However, not everyone has access to these resources.
3. Fees
Choosing the right bankruptcy lawyer will help you make a strong financial decision. That is why it’s important to interview multiple attorneys before making a choice. A reputable attorney will explain your options and treat you with respect.
Ask the lawyer about their experience in bankruptcy and how many cases they’ve
handled. Also, find out whether they work in a large firm or as a solo practitioner. Larger firms often charge lower fees because of their marketing and overhead costs, but a single-proprietor or boutique firm may provide more personal service at a higher cost.
Be careful when an attorney advertises unusually low fees for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Find out whether these fees include everything necessary for your case. For example, some attorneys will not include a meeting with a creditor to discuss a creditor’s objection to the valuation of property.
4. Technology
Bankruptcy is often a foreign and confusing process for individuals and businesses facing financial hardship. They want competent, trustworthy advice from an authority on the subject. As a result, bankruptcy lawyers should implement strategies to solidify themselves as experts in the area.
One strategy is to host webinars and seminars on topics like the different types of bankruptcy and how to manage debt. During these sessions, lawyers should refrain from explicit marketing pitches and instead focus on answering participants’ questions.
Another option is to offer online resources and eBooks. These can be behind a form that collects email addresses and helps grow a database of potential clients.
5.Communication
The bankruptcy process involves a lot of paperwork, and it’s important to work with an attorney who understands the details. Your lawyer can help make sure that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time, which helps avoid any penalties. They can also assist with dealing with creditors, such as stopping illegal debt collection tactics and ensuring that your case stays on track.
If you’re unsure about which attorney to hire, ask family and friends for referrals. You can also do online research to find qualified attorneys in your area.
It’s also a good idea to visit the office of each bankruptcy attorney you’re considering before hiring them. This will give you a chance to see how they interact with their clients and whether or not they are what you are looking for. A Harrisburg pa bankruptcy attorney will tell you that experience and expertise goes a long way.
