subject: Finding A Low Cost Los Angeles Bankruptcy Attorney [print this page] Finding A Low Cost And Honest Los Angeles Bankruptcy Attorney
In these times of financial stress, it is unfortunate that bankruptcy lawyers are required. It is hard to find an attorney you feel is trustworthy, and have that lawyer be one you can afford. Do not worry. Here a a few things to help the process of finding an affordable and trustworthy Los Angeles Bankruptcy Attorney.
Recommendations are the best place to start when trying to find a lawyer. By speaking with your co-workers, friends, and family, you will find more pertinent information about a lawyer who might be right for you. Recommendations may even come from another lawyer. Talk to those around who are professionals. Maybe your banker, minister, or a local social worker can help.
Like everyone else, lawyers have to advertise to get business. You can look online, in newspapers, or phone books to find a little bit of information. If they lawyer has a website, there may be reviews from previous clients. This is a great first stop along selection process. But remember to take the information at face value. Advertisements are created to get attention and hopefully draw them in as prospective clients.
A recommendation might be hard to get. Another option could be a lawyer referral service. Make sure the service you use has been certified. These services should give you information about bankruptcy attorneys. Certified services follow certain rules created for your protection. These certified services can also assist you with reasonably priced or free advice. In addition, a certified service may be able to locate attorneys who speak other languages than English.
There is a program offered by the State Bar for lawyers who would like to be certified as specialists. Becoming a specialist requires the lawyer to show they have much experience in a specific area like bankruptcy. But, many lawyers have experience and expertise but may not have chosen to be certified.
State bars are unable to refer specific attorneys or give legal advice. As mentioned, one of the many certified lawyer referral services is the next place to look if a consultation or hiring of an attorney is necessary. These services can tell you if your legal troubles could be resolved outside of a court, and may not require a lawyer.
Records about lawyers are open to the public. Most information is available for free from the state bar. An official bar membership record tells you how long the attorney has been a member of the bar and which institution a lawyer attended for their undergraduate and law training. In addition to this information, the record shows if the membership is current and the lawyer can be actively practicing law and if they have ever been disciplined.
Free legal aid may be available for some people based on their financial circumstances and the kind of legal assistance required. The website for the Bar in California offers the basics of law and a database for attorneys. At some law schools, it is also possible to attend legal clinics offered for free.
After you have been successful in finding a Los Angeles Bankruptcy Attorney you can trust and afford, keep them informed. Ensure a statement regarding the fee is agreed upon and is in writing. Your lawyer should not be a close friend, but stay connected, and they will guide you through the process.
