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How to choose a bankruptcy lawyer

A good bankruptcy attorney is a great investment in a better future. As in any other profession, the choice of practitiner can make a big difference to your outcome. You might want to start your search by calling your local chapter of the American Bar Association; you can find more information on their website at www.abanet.org. You'll be able to obtain a list of local bankruptcy attorneys, although you won't be given a recommendation of whom to choose. Of course, you can always turn to your handy yellow pages to find an attorney.

Regardless of where you ultimately look for a lawyer, you'll want to take certain things into consideration when determining which lawyer is right for you and your needs. Look for a lawyer who meets or exeeds the following.Free consultation if an attorney refuses to consult with you without charging a fee, keep looking. Since so many lawyers offer free consultations and finances are tight (or you wouldn't be claiming bankruptcy anyway) you may want to limit your search to attorneys who offer a free consultation..

Experience counts it's important to find an attorney who specializes or has vast experience in bankruptcy law. You want an attorney who understands the bankruptcy laws (new and old) and the rules locally and federally and who has experience with the bankruptcy trustees and judges. You will likely want someone with a strong reputation and track record to represent you. Choose someone who has satisfied clients. Ask to see recommendations from other clients. Also, call your State Bar to see if the attorney has had serious problems with other clients. Law school does not teach the practice of law. It's all book work. Make sure you choose someone who has been actively practicing for at least 10 years and actively practices in the bankruptcy court.

Affordable fees attorneys are expensive, and bankruptcy lawyers are no exception. The new bankruptcy law enacted in October 2005 has made the process even more work for bankruptcy attorneys - which translates into more time and higher fees. Therefore, you'll want to find a lawyer who has reasonable fees and is willing to offer you a payment plan (that you can feasibly meet). Avoid rock bottom fees. They usually indicate either a lace of services or a poor reputation. Avoid the highest fees, unless your case is extremely large and complex. Some lawyers charge a flat fee, while others charge fees based on your total debt, or an upfront fee before filling your bankruptcy.

Comfort matters if after your first free consultation or discussion you don't feel comfortable with the attorney, follow your instincts and keep looking. You don't want to hire someone with whom you don't feel comfortable. Remember, you are placing your financial life in the hands of the lawyer you choose to hire. You will likely want a lawyer who will answer your questions and not someone who is rushing you out the door. Keep in mind that the more you know about the whole bankruptcy process, the less stressful it will be for you.

Size of firm some experts suggest choosing an attorney who works for a larger law firm, citing that lawyers who work for a small firm may not have the time to talk with you when you urgently need them. However, others suggest that lawyers from small firms will give you more "personal" care. The choice is yours - the bottom line is you need a lawyer who you feel will represent you best, regardless of their firm size.

Clear Terms a clear contract is desirabe, specifying what your lawyer will do for you. Some lawyers provide a guarantee of sucessful discharge, or refund of fess (assuming you have provided accurate information)

Now that you have a better idea on how to choose a lawyer, visit our free bankruptcy evaluation page to find out if you qualify for bankruptcy or visit our lawyer lookup page to speak to an attorney today!