Bankruptcy is a highly specialized area of law that requires attention to detail. A good bankruptcy attorney will understand the nuances of your specific case and be able to help you make the best financial decisions.
Finding the right attorney begins with research and vetting potential candidates. Once you’ve found a few strong candidates, schedule interviews to determine which one will be the best fit for your situation.
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They Have Strong Principles
All lawyers must be detail-oriented, but perhaps no branch of law requires more attention to the fine print than bankruptcy and tax law. A good bankruptcy attorney takes the time to explain all aspects of the case to clients, including addressing any questions or concerns and making sure that all information is communicated to the court in a timely manner.
A good bankruptcy attorney also encourages clients to be honest and presents all facts in a clear and understandable way so that they can make informed decisions and protect their assets. They do not allow their personal or business relationships to cloud their judgment and will always act ethically, even in the face of a losing battle.
A good bankruptcy attorney will offer personalized service, including an initial consultation that allows them to work with clients one-on-one and provide guidance and advice based on their specific situation. Avoid attorneys who treat their cases as an assembly line, or those who seem to be more interested in making money than in getting the best outcome for their client.
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They Are Clear and Effective Communicators
People wind up filing for bankruptcy for many reasons. Some may have lost their jobs, gotten behind on their mortgage or car payments and maxed out their credit cards. Other factors like high medical bills, unexpected child care costs or loss of income can quickly cause debt to mount.
A good bankruptcy attorney understands these situations and doesn’t judge or condescend. He or she will be empathetic and will take the time to listen and ask questions to better understand the situation.
When interviewing lawyers, ask about their specialized training and background in bankruptcy law. Look for an American Board of Certification designation and affiliation with the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA).
Make sure your bankruptcy lawyer clearly communicates with you during the process and responds to your calls. Also, be wary of attorneys who work for “bankruptcy mills” and don’t have the resources to give your case the personal attention it deserves.
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They Have Past Experience in Bankruptcy Cases
When selecting a bankruptcy lawyer, it is important to find out how many cases they have handled. It is also important to know if they have any disciplinary history. If they have any issues, it is a good idea to get them resolved before hiring them for your case.
Bankruptcy attorneys should be able to answer your questions about the process and give you a clear picture of what to expect. They should also be able to explain legalese in a way that you understand. A good bankruptcy attorney will show empathy for your situation. Look for lawyers who have experience and a good understanding of the law. Online reviews and experience from other clients can help. A Harrisburg PA bankruptcy attorney may have company accolades or awards for their work or referrals from other clients.
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They Offer Personalized Service
A good bankruptcy attorney understands that their clients are under pressure, perhaps suffering from financial strife due to a divorce, job loss, medical bills or car repossession. These situations make it even more important that the professional be understanding, respectful and caring.
A knowledgeable bankruptcy professional can provide a fresh start and help eliminate credit card debt, mortgage deficiencies, personal loans, business debts, foreclosures, repossessions and lawsuits through a successful bankruptcy filing. They can also provide alternatives to bankruptcy, such as debt negotiation and offers in compromise.
When seeking a qualified bankruptcy lawyer, be sure to ask family and friends for a referral or use online resources. Avoid choosing an attorney based solely on price as it is possible they may cut corners that could cause your bankruptcy case to fail. Instead, choose a well-qualified professional that can offer you a free consultation to determine the best course of action for your unique situation.
