You would think that lawyers were dentists and that your first visit to discuss bankruptcy options was a teeth pulling session. Really, it’s not – trust me! Famous last words those – “trust me.” Yet that is exactly what you need to do once you select a bankruptcy attorney to help you through the bankruptcy process.
What is important to understand is that last sentence – a bankruptcy attorney helps you through the bankruptcy process. The attorney is not filing for bankruptcy, you are. And that should be central in your mind when making that first visit. In fact, your first appointment with an attorney is generally a meet-and-greet affair with the attorney trying to get a feel for your situation.
When you arrive at the attorney’s office, you will most likely be handed a few forms that need to be filled in. Some attorneys want that form filled in there and then; others want the information for your follow-up visit. If your attorney wants to see any documents, he/she will have asked for them when you arranged this first appointment.
During your first visit, your attorney will probably discuss your situation without getting into too much detail. Knowing roughly how much you owe in debts, what sort of income you have, and what assets you have will help. Your attorney will want to know how much pressure creditors are putting on you, what your spending habits have been – in particular, any credit card transactions over the previous ninety days – and whether or not there are default judgements hanging over your head. Your current living arrangements, including renting or buying and the state of your mortgage (and equity), are also important.
Based on the information you provide, your attorney may offer you several different options to consider. These are not matters to decide on there and then, they are matters that may require deeper considerations on your part. If you are married, your attorney may want to see both of you at your second appointment.
Why should you trust your attorney? Your attorney is only as good as the information you give them. They will make recommendations for certain actions, however, so be aware. If you have provided your bankruptcy attorney with the wrong information, they may actually steer you in the wrong direction and your outcome could be far worse than your current situation. Surviving your visit with a bankruptcy attorney is easy – you just need to trust them and to answer every question accurately and honestly. After all, it’s for your benefit, not theirs.
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