If you’re struggling with debt you can’t pay, you may need a bankruptcy. Bankruptcy clears your debt and gives you a fresh start. It also stops repossession, foreclosure, and wage garnishment.
But how do you choose the right bankruptcy attorney? As a bankruptcy attorney Memphis TN has trusted for decades, I know you have a lot of options. You need a clear way to decide on the best fit. Here are 3 things to look for in a potential bankruptcy attorney:
- Is the attorney accessible?
Look for a bankruptcy attorney who has flexible hours and will work with your schedule. They should offer a free consultation and be available to take questions by phone. Some attorneys will take a long time to get back to your phone calls. In the normal world that might be frustrating, but in bankruptcy it can be catastrophic. You don’t want your case to be dismissed because your lawyer didn’t do their job.
- Does the attorney have the right reputation?
With Avvo, Yelp, Google, and other review sites, you can find out quickly whether other people have had a good experience with your bankruptcy attorney. If you have friends who have been through a bankruptcy, ask them if they were happy with their lawyer. Look for attorneys with high ratings and many years of experience. Check their website for testimonials, awards, and special honors they and their staff may have received. With filing fees generally set by law and payment plans often available, you don’t need to settle on a lesser attorney.
- Will the attorney work with you to help your specific situation?
If you’re afraid of the cost of bankruptcy, you need an attorney who will work with you. Some bankruptcy attorneys offer payment plans or other options to make the bankruptcy affordable. Or perhaps you want to make sure you can rebuild your credit after bankruptcy. Then find an attorney who offers free resources on rebuilding credit, like credit courses or articles they’ve written. And make sure you feel comfortable bringing all your concerns to your attorney. That’s what they should be there for.
If you take all of the above factors into consideration, you should be able to find a qualified, compassionate bankruptcy lawyer who will take care of your case and treat you with respect.
Thanks to our friends and contributors from Darrell Castle & Associates, PLLC for their insight into finding the right bankruptcy attorney.