subject: Finding The Right Philadelphia Bankruptcy Attorney [print this page] Finding The Right Philadelphia Bankruptcy Attorney
Every Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney has witnessed a large growth in business over the last year. According to the average Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney, the number of new clients filing in the door has risen to double digits. And while your Philadelphia bankruptcy attorney is like any other small business, in that an increase in revenue is generally viewed as a positive, the toll that it can take can be high. Many clients seen by attorneys are neighbors, friends and relatives, in addition to strangers. Most people arrive at their attorneys office somewhat dazed and often confused. Until recently, these same people had been solid, bill paying citizens, meeting the mortgage, the credit card payments and even a private tuition bill or two, without being late. But then the recession's dirty wave came down on them, too. Perhaps a job was lost. Or there was an unexpected medical or repair bill, and finances began to slide downhill from there. Often, people think that things will turn around fairly quickly, and for some it does. A job is found or there is a surprise inheritance. But this is really the minority. For most, they slug it out and hope for better times. It is better not to wait to find an attorney. Sometimes waiting too long before seeking professional advice and spell ruin. Finding an attorney is fairly easy. Finding an attorney who will listen and understand your goals is a little harder, but can be don with a little research and questioning. Start by asking your relatives and friends where you might find an attorney. It might surprise you to learn that those closest to you may have had to reorganize their finances. If your relatives and friends have been lucky or smart during this recession, then go to the Internet. Most attorneys have detailed sites about their services and background. Make a list of three or four and start calling. Have some questions ready to ask them. A good attorney can be a good advocate for you, but only you can be your best advocate. Only you know where you want to be in two, three or five years. Tell your attorney! Depending on your case, the things that you want may be accomplished. Once you have retained an attorney, your advice may be to file either Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 consumer bankruptcy. Chapter 7 will have you selling your assets and repaying those you owe. Chapter 13 will have you setting up a schedule to repay creditors and keeping some assets. It could be that your attorney advises you to stay outside the courts and work out a private repayment to creditors. It all depends on your case. You may have to get a second job, sell some toys and get on a strict budget. The best thing to do is to hire an attorney sooner rather than later. Waiting too long can spell disaster. The time you spend working with your attorney will be time well spent in getting you back on the road to financial wellness.
