Questions to Ask Your Chapter 7 Attorney at the Initial Meeting

April 29, 2012 - PRLog -- The decision to file bankruptcy is not one that should be taken lightly. When debt has overtaken you, it may be the only way out; however, you will need to secure the right legal helpers and understand bankruptcy filings in Texas.

In addition to financial worries, you may be stressed about the idea of choosing an attorney. Bankruptcy filings in Texas may not be uncommon, but you still need experienced and qualified legal helpers.

Questions for Your Bankruptcy Attorney

With a struggling economy, it may seem that everywhere you turn there is an attorney ready to take on your case; however, you should be cautious about the person you hire.

A good attorney will be able to provide you with answers to your questions, like the bankruptcy definition, and not make you feel like they are inconsequential. He or she also will recognize the importance of your decision in selecting an attorney.

One of the questions you should ask potential bankruptcy attorneys is if they know who the U.S. Trustee for your area is. This is the part of the federal government that oversees bankruptcy cases. In addition, you should ask about the local Chapter 13 and 7 Trustees.

A second question you should ask is how long they have been practicing in the field of bankruptcy. This is important because in 2005 there were changes in bankruptcy law.

Filing chapter 7 is much more difficult to do now. As a result, many people who wish to do so are being forced to file chapter 13, which requires repayment of some debt. You will need an attorney who has experience with these types of claims since the new laws went into effect.

A third question to ask an attorney is since the changes in law, how many bankruptcy cases he or she actually has completed. This provides a better feel for their experience and success since that time.

Fourth, you should ask if they were practicing bankruptcy law before the changes in 2005. If so, find out for how many years.

Fifth, you should ask if the bankruptcy judges in your area are familiar with your attorney. If not, you probably don’t want to hire him or her.

Finally, ask attorneys if they volunteer in any bankruptcy bar groups. The National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA) would be preferable.

You may have other questions that can help make a decision on whether this is the best fit for your case. For instance, you might ask the attorney to provide a list of references you can contact.

You should feel comfortable asking as many questions as you like before you decide to hire an attorney. The decision to get out of debt is important, so you want to know that you have legal helpers who are invested in your best interests.

In addition, you will need knowledgeable legal counsel that can help determine whether you are better off filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. A good attorney will take the time to evaluate your circumstances and realize what the best plan for your particular situation is.


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