Stay Informed And Find Solutions - Questions For Your Bankruptcy Attorney
Finding yourself in a situation where you need the services of a bankruptcy attorney can be one of the most stressful times in anyone's life, but it's not a situation without hope. If you're feeling frustrated or confused, the best way to get yourself out of that funk is to make sure you have as much information as possible.
Below, you'll find a guide to some questions you should ask your bankruptcy lawyer. Once you have this information in mind, you can gather the knowledge that you need to find the best possible resolution to your bankruptcy case and put you on the road to securing a stable financial future.
Ask About Costs
When your financial situation has gotten difficult enough that bankruptcy may be your best option, some people delay seeking that solution for fear of upfront costs. Unfortunately, the longer you wait, the more difficult your credit situation can become and the more fees and fines you risk building up.
Thankfully, lawyers will often be willing to accept your case on a contingency basis. This means that their fees can be wrapped into your bankruptcy settlement, allowing you to pay off your attorney on a schedule that the court determines you can afford. This will relieve a significant financial burden and allow you to feel secure about your lawyer's fees.
Ask About Communication
A bankruptcy proceeding is a major event in your life, and it can feel like all other things have halted until it's completed. This can create a great deal of frustration, as your lawyer will likely be working through several other cases at once, and the typical delays of the legal system won't be suspended merely for your comfort.
Rather than allowing resentment to build up between you and your lawyer, you should work to find an equitable solution. Setting up a weekly conference call, for example, is a great way to make sure you're getting all the financial advice you need while also staying updated on your case's proceedings through the court.
Ask About Disclosures
Financial settlements can be emotionally challenging, as they require you to be totally upfront about highly personal information. At your first meeting with your bankruptcy attorney, you should develop a clear understanding of the information that you'll be required to disclose. This will allow you to begin building up trust with your lawyer and will ease the process of releasing potentially embarrassing information, allowing you to find the best possible financial future.