Factors to Consider when Choosing a Bankruptcy Lawyer
Are you having troubles with finances and unable to pay your mortgage, student or car loans? You may have lost your job or a certain percentage deducted from your salary. You will be filled with anxiety and it feels like the end of the world. However, the good news is you can file for bankruptcy and save your properties. What you need is to choose a capable bankruptcy lawyer to get you out of the miserable situation. Although it can be impressive to handle the situation by yourself, you may not have the knowledge to deal with bankruptcy courts and judges. You may end up losing all your possession. Therefore, consider hiring a bankruptcy attorney to help you navigate a successful journey of keeping your property despite your financial situation. To choose a competent bankruptcy attorney, consider the factors below.
Experience. Before hiring a bankruptcy attorney, it is essential to check if they are experienced in this particular field. Research how long the lawyer has been practicing law to determine their capabilities. Checking when they were first licensed by the relevant state body gives you a clue of the time they have been in the industry. Enquire if they are experienced to handle cases similar to yours. It gives you hope of retaining your possession.
Reputation. A bankruptcy lawyer with a good reputation will always offer quality and satisfying legal services to their clients. Even if a lawyer was referred to you, check their reputation online. Most bankruptcy attorneys have social media pages where you can check feedback given by their clients. Clients give information on whether the attorney can handle a particular case. Also, the website of the law firm the attorney is working with can help you get more information. Find out when they sat for their bar exam and in which law school. These details will help you hire a competent bankruptcy lawyer who understands your situation and handles it successfully.
Local expertise. The lawyer you choose should be familiar with local laws of the court you are filing your bankruptcy case. Each locality has its bankruptcy procedures and that’s why you should look for an attorney who has been practicing there. They can use the knowledge they have gained from local court procedures to your benefit. To check on their expertise, enquire from the local state bar. Most of them have a list of lawyers and their field of expertise. Working with a bankruptcy lawyer who operates locally and is knowledgeable on the local statutes and laws will help you retain your mortgage or car.
Customer service. There is nothing greater than working with a bankruptcy attorney with good customer support. It helps you feel at ease as you receive updates as they come. Check out if the lawyer has good communication skills. Consider contacting them and ask various questions to help you establish if they are the right professional for you. Hiring a bankruptcy attorney is expensive and you need someone who can easily navigate the situation fast. Those with good customer service are able to handle cases in courts without the judges’ intimidation. It will lead to a positive outcome.