Bankruptcy Attorney
"Contemplating hiring a bankruptcy attorney has all the allure of selecting your mortician." — Ray R. Graves, former federal bankruptcy judge for the Eastern District of Michigan.
If you are like most people, you've probably waited until the last minute before seeking out the advice and services of a competent bankruptcy attorney. This is a common mistake that doesn't always leave enough time to find a US bankruptcy attorney you can feel comfortable with, and even if you do, it often doesn't leave the attorney enough time to prepare for your case.
Finding a U.S. Bankruptcy Attorney
There are many resources available to help you find a US Bankruptcy Attorney. Should you already have a personal attorney you may want to ask for a referral to an attorney specializing in bankruptcy law. If you don't already have a personal attorney, you can check local and state bar associations as well as professional organizations in finding a bankruptcy attorney.
Two excellent resources are the Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys, and the American Bankruptcy Institute.
Hiring a U.S. Bankruptcy Attorney
A competent US bankruptcy attorney will go over time frames and filing requirements and brief you on "your role in the bankruptcy process". If you do your part, your chances of a successful filing are greatly improved.
Finally, determine what's exactly included in your attorney's fees. There are cases in which a forensic accountant may be needed and whose services may incur an additional fee. Your local bar association can verify whether the proposed fees are fair and within local standards.
Two of the 25 most recent Changes to US Bankruptcy Law relate to Bankrupcty Attorneys.
