Choosing the Right Bankruptcy Lawyer For You
Once you have made the decision to file for bankruptcy, you may find yourself as overwhelmed with laws and technicalities as you are with credit card debt. One of the points of bankruptcy is to make your life less stressful by giving you a fresh financial start. Filing for bankruptcy should not add to your stress; it should only alleviate it. That is why choosing the right bankruptcy attorney in Los Angeles that can work with you own individual needs are of the utmost importance.
The first thing you need to do is find a Los Angeles bankruptcy lawyer, but do not just choose one out of the Yellow Pages and go with it. Ask around. Bankruptcy is more common than you realize and you may have a friend of acquaintance who has been through the same thing. You can also check with the California bar association for Los Angeles bankruptcy lawyers and their credentials. Once you have made a short list, call these lawyers and briefly explain your situation. A good attorney will offer you a free consultation to learn more and help guide you. If you feel a rapport with one or more of the lawyers you talk to, set up an appointment to meet with them.
Remember to look for experience first and foremost. You want an attorney who knows the ins and outs of bankruptcy law, and that includes the new federal laws that were put in place with 2005 legislation. A bankruptcy expert will be able to get the job done right and alleviate much of the stress that goes along with filing and closing your case. Look for up front honesty as well. An attorney who promises the moon may not be what you are looking for. An attorney who will explain that this is not always an easy process and is realistic with you is.
Of course, the fee a bankruptcy lawyer in Los Angeles will charge needs to also be considered. You are doing this because you are in financial trouble. A lawyer who understands this will not charge you outrageous prices, but instead try to charge something reasonable and affordable. An attorney who is not in practice by himself is also something you should look for. A practice with several lawyers will help ensure that when you need advice or paperwork done, someone will be on hand to meet your needs. Most of all, you want a lawyer you can feel confident with so that the fresh start you are aiming for is as smooth and stress-free as possible.
