subject: 3 Key Questions To Ask Your California Bankruptcy Lawyer [print this page] 3 Key Questions To Ask Your California Bankruptcy Lawyer
On April 20, 2005, President Bush signed into law the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act of 2005 ("BAPCPA"). BAPCPA made substantial changes to the Bankruptcy Code. With these widespread changes that took place in bankruptcy law, it is more important than ever to hire a competent, experienced lawyer for a successful bankruptcy case. If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, you want to be fully informed about what a prospective lawyer can offer and what to expect from them before you sign a contract. Here are three key questions to ask your California bankruptcy lawyer before signing a contract:
Should I File for Bankruptcy or Do I Have Other Options?
This question covers a lot of ground and allows the lawyer to discuss several different issues with you and present your options. It allows them to give a recommendation as to whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is a better option for you, or even if there is an option outside of bankruptcy that you yet to consider. This information will give you a clear understanding of the benefits and drawbacks of filing for bankruptcy and is a good place to start with a prospective California bankruptcy lawyer.
Who Will Actually Be Handling My Case?
Sometimes the lawyer you have an initial consultation with isn't actually the one who will be handling your case. It is important to know if the lawyer you are speaking with plans to pass your case on to someone else or handle it themselves. There is typically a single hearing in bankruptcy cases. If someone other than the lawyer you are speaking with is going to court with you, it is a good idea to meet with the lawyer who will actually be representing you so you will be comfortable with them and be able to discuss the details of your case.
How Much Do You Charge For Your Services?
Although this may be the first question that comes to mind, it is a good idea to ask about the costs associated with your case last. It gives you an opportunity to see the other services that the attorney plans to provide without cost playing into the decision. There are a number of ways an attorney can request to be paid.
A California bankruptcy lawyer may charge an hourly fee or flat fee for his work. It is a good idea to get an estimate of how much a case will cost. Additionally, it is important to know if there are any additional expenses that may be incurred to conclude your case for which you will be responsible. Remember, like in so many other things, with a lawyer, you get what you pay for.
If you are seriously considering bankruptcy and you live in California, you need to consult with a California bankruptcy lawyer. While the process is complicated, they will be able to help you understand your options and help you avoid making bad decisions that you could later regret. If you are over-burdened with bills and cannot see any light at the end of the tunnel, bankruptcy may be the best option to help you get that much needed fresh start and allow you to rebuild your future.
The law offices of Borowitz, Lozano and Clark, LLP specialize in California bankruptcy and exclusively represent debtors in Consumer and Small Business Bankruptcies. They have helped over 20,000 families get free from the burden of debt since 1997. Call today for a free debt consultation at 1-800-509-3200.
