What Should I Expect When Working With a Bankruptcy Attorney? Sound Advice From A Houston Lawyer

Jack N. Fuerst, Attorney At Law | Trustworthy Bankruptcy Lawyer in Houston, TX

Many unpredictable circumstances can lead you into a downward spiral of overwhelming debt and insolvency. Astronomical medical bills due to inadequate medical coverage, insurmountable credit card debt compounded by high interest rates or unexpected job loss are just a few of the reasons we find ourselves pushed over the brink financially.

You’re facing humiliations you never anticipated – harassment from creditors, foreclosure on your home or repossession of your car. You’ve heard that declaring bankruptcy might be a solution, but you’ve hesitated due to the perceived stigma.

However, bankruptcy can be a proactive, responsible step toward financial stability. While not for everyone, bankruptcy can be how you achieve financial relief, repay your creditors, protect your assets or even discharge some or all of your debt.

How A Bankruptcy Attorney Can Help

The bankruptcy process is a complex web of federal law, state law, and legal procedure. It’s not a journey you want to undertake alone. An experienced bankruptcy lawyer can help you decide if bankruptcy is the best path back to financial stability and guide you every step of the way.

What Are The Benefits Of Hiring A Bankruptcy Attorney?

Bankruptcy is a highly specialized and intricate area of law. It’s not a process you want to pursue alone. There’s too much for a layperson to learn and too many opportunities for mistakes.

More than anything, a skilled bankruptcy attorney brings invaluable experience, knowledge and support that will ensure a smoother and more effective process in bankruptcy court. Your attorney can also answer your most pressing questions about the process – whether declaring bankruptcy is the best option for you, which chapter to file and whether you’re eligible.

How Do I Prepare For My Initial Consultation?

You can help your attorney determine whether you should file for bankruptcy by bringing proper documentation to the consultation. They will want a complete picture of your financial situation, so be prepared.

Pay stubs, tax returns and documentation of any other income are essential. Statements for bank accounts, retirement accounts and investment accounts are equally important.

You’ll also want to supply any documents that prove ownership of, and what’s owed on, your home and vehicles. These include real estate deeds, mortgage documents, car titles and car loan documents. Documents relating to any outstanding debts should be included.

Finally, a list of your monthly expenses and a separate list of your creditors and how much you owe them will help to your attorney.

What Questions Should I Ask My Bankruptcy Lawyer?

Ask your bankruptcy lawyer questions about their experience and qualifications. How many years have they been practicing bankruptcy law? How many cases have they handled? Do they specialize in helping individuals, small businesses or both? Do they belong to, or have they been recognized by, any professional organizations?

You may have questions about the process and timeline:

• Is bankruptcy right for your circumstances, or would other forms of debt relief be more appropriate?
• Which chapter should you file and why?
• How long does it typically take to resolve a bankruptcy case?
• Will you be required to appear in court?
• What is the estimated timeline for repayment of debts?
• What debts, if any, can be discharged?
• Can you keep your car and home?
• Which assets might you lose in bankruptcy?

Asking your attorney about their fee and other incidental expenses related to the bankruptcy process is also advisable. Does your attorney require a retainer, or will they accept a payment plan? Are there other costs aside from filing fees?

How Will My Lawyer Help Me Through the Process?

Your attorney will leverage their experience to advocate for your best interests throughout your bankruptcy. At the outset, they will assess your financial situation to determine if bankruptcy or other debt-relief alternatives are the most appropriate solutions for you.

If you pursue bankruptcy, your attorney will help you decide which chapter to file and how best to protect your assets as you go forward. They will also buffer you from the harassment of creditors.

Your attorney will also handle the filing of your case and represent you in all hearings. They will ensure your paperwork is in order, your case moves expeditiously, and your assets are preserved to the fullest extent possible.

Throughout the bankruptcy process, your lawyer will help you avoid costly mistakes that could harm your case. After the case’s conclusion, they will help you rebuild your credit and achieve your long-range goals for financial stability and responsibility.

Contact Jack Fuerst Today To Start Rebuilding Your Financial Future

Jack Fuerst has more than four decades of experience helping clients like you in Houston, TX, successfully file and navigate Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcies. He has the answers and solutions you’re looking for.

Don’t try to brave the complexities of bankruptcy alone; you’ll likely make mistakes that will further threaten your financial future. Contact Jack Fuerst today to schedule a free consultation.