How to Consult With a Bankruptcy Attorney
The first meeting with a bankruptcy attorney is called a consult. Many times, this service is provided free of charge. Preparation for the consult saves both the debtor and the attorney time, and makes the process of filing bankruptcy easier.
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Instructions
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Find a good bankruptcy attorney. Bankruptcy is an extremely complicated legal process, and an attorney who knows all the laws and regulations is absolutely necessary. Find one through recommendations, or check local listings. Because consults are usually free, meet with potential attorneys to determine if they are the right fit.
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Locate all bills. All bills from creditors, collectors, medical bills as well as any outstanding taxes and court summons relating to the debt. The attorney will need these to determine eligibility for bankruptcy.
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Get credit reports. These are available through the three credit reporting agencies--Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. The government has mandated that one free credit report be provided for each consumer annually if requested.
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Estimate monthly living expenses. Include in this housing, utilities, transportation and grocery costs. Also, any personal upkeep costs, such as haircuts should be estimated.
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Fill out any documents the lawyer needs beforehand. Many times, this will include detailed reports of assets and debts. If requested, make sure to fax or deliver these documents before the appointment to be analyzed.
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Gather all proofs of paid bills. These can include bank statements showing cleared checks, cancelled checks, and confirmation numbers among others. If any accounts were settled, bring documentation of the settlement.
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Comments
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blackapple3010
Jul 24, 2009
One of the main questions is how you feel about your secured debts--house, car, etc. In other words, debts that can be repossessed if you default on your payments. If you are ready cut ties with all of those items, then most lawyers will steer you toward a chapter 7--total liquidation. You may be eligible to reaffirm secured debts in a chapter 7--with approval of your attorney and the bankruptcy judge--however, understand that if you default on your payments in the future, then the bankruptcy offers no protection.
