What Should I Expect From My Bankruptcy Lawyer

Filing for bankruptcy is a great way to get out from under burdensome debt, and most people feel a tremendous sense of relief when their bankruptcy case is over. But understanding the process and filling out the bankruptcy forms can be daunting.

That's where a bankruptcy lawyer comes in. Not only will you receive legal advice, but a bankruptcy attorney will handle the paperwork from start to finish. Below are some of the most common types of services you can expect from your bankruptcy lawyer.

(Not sure how much you should pay? Start by reading Average Attorney Fees in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.)

Expect Competence From Your Bankruptcy Lawyer

Not all bankruptcy cases are complicated, but they aren't all easy, either. Either way, your bankruptcy lawyer should have the skill level necessary to handle your case.

In general, the difficulty of your bankruptcy will depend on:

• the facts of your case
• whether you file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy
• whether the bankruptcy trustee will sell any of your property (an asset or "no asset" bankruptcy case)
• if you own a small business, and
• the involvement of bankruptcy litigation.

One way to find out if it's a good fit is to to ask whether the lawyer has represented clients in similar situations in the past.

Expect Sound Legal Advice From Your Bankruptcy Lawyer

In general, your retainer agreement (the contract you and your attorney sign) will outline the services your bankruptcy attorney will provide. Your attorney's job is also to provide you with competent advice throughout the bankruptcy process.

First, you can expect your attorney to tell you whether filing for bankruptcy would be in your best interest. If it is, you should also learn:

• whether Chapter 7, Chapter 13, or another type will help you achieve your financial goals
• what you can expect during the bankruptcy process, and
• whether your case involves any particular difficulties or risks.

Most importantly, if you have any questions, you can expect your attorney to respond to your calls or emails promptly.

Expect Your Bankruptcy Lawyer to Prepare and File Your Paperwork

Filing for bankruptcy requires you to complete a lengthy packet of forms. Almost all bankruptcy attorneys have specialized software that prepares and files your required bankruptcy paperwork with the court.

You'll provide your attorney with all of your financial information, such as income, expense, asset, and debt information. Your lawyer will use it to prepare the official forms and then go over the completed paperwork with you to ensure accuracy.

You might have to provide additional forms or documents with the court or the trustee, too. Your attorney will make sure to do so promptly because missing a bankruptcy deadline can cause:

• delays in the process
• dismissal of your case, or
• other adverse consequences.

For these reasons, one of the responsibilities of your bankruptcy attorney is to know the local rules and filing procedures.

Expect Your Bankruptcy Lawyer to Represent You at Hearings

After filing for bankruptcy, all debtors must attend a mandatory hearing called the 341 meeting of creditors. But, depending on your case, you (or your attorney) might need to go to additional hearings.

Some common types of hearings you can expect your attorney to represent you at:

• Chapter 13 confirmation hearings
• Chapter 7 reaffirmation hearings, and
• any other motion or objection hearings filed by you, your creditors, or the trustee.

In most cases, before you file your bankruptcy case, your attorney will be able to advise you about the hearings you can anticipate attending.