Filing for bankruptcy is one of those life changing events. But it need not be problematic. In fact, filing bankruptcy can be a positive learning experience. You’ll better know how the system works; if you ever have to file again, you can know the laws well. However, one big step which will impact how successful you are is hiring the right attorney. For Texas residents, you can look in the phone book and see hundreds in your area. Go online and find thousands in the state. So how do you differentiate them?
Well, first let’s go over the looking, then we’ll go over the doing.
Search Online
While the phone book is a good barometer, especially for local Texas bankruptcy attorneys, searching online can give you far more information. How much can the typical lawyer post in the phone book? Some might have a page and pay a lot of money; others may just have a name and number. If you go online, you can find pages of material for most reputable Texas bankruptcy attorneys in your area.
Go Local
And you can still look locally. Search “Texas Bankruptcy Attorneys” and you’ll get a lot of results. Going local is a must. This lawyer will likely have experience in the local court, you can meet them with ease, and you can avoid long drives and expenses.
Ask for Referrals
Another good reference for finding attorneys is through referrals This does not always work out; you definitely should not hire based solely on a referral. But you can get some leads on experienced bankruptcy attorneys in your area.
Look for References
You also want to know how many people this attorney has helped. Ask for references and relevant experience. You can find much of this on many attorney’s websites.
Query 5 to 10 Attorneys
Once you’ve decided a suitable approach, the next guideline is to not settle on only 1-2 options. Try and call or email at least 5-10 local bankruptcy attorneys.
Don’t Go for the First
One mistake many make is hiring the first attorney who offers a good deal. Just because they charge less does not mean they are less qualified, but be sure to meet with more than one.
Advertisements Good or Bad?
If you see advertisements on television for an attorney, many of which can help with bankruptcy, you may wonder if that’s relevant. Yes, any attorney who proves they want to help, have experience, and are affordable should be considered. You may want the personal touch of a small firm, as most big firms do put more money into advertising (but that’s not bad).
Know Experience
Once you consult with several, the next guideline is to look over experience. It need not be the #1 lawyer on your list; sometimes a lower price comes from a suitable but less experienced attorney. However, experience is where you see who has the time, ability, and effort needed to successfully help you file.
Consider Price
Price is the #1 issue for many. This makes sense: you are declaring bankruptcy because you cannot pay certain bills. So why hire the lawyer who wants thousands of dollars? Sometimes because they’re worth it. You definitely don’t want the highest priced attorney in most cases, but you do want one with relevant experience and ability.
But Factor Beyond Price
The final guideline is that you should consider price but not as your only concern. If you go to a lawyer who has little experience and offers you the best deal, you have to wonder why. If on the other hand one sounds good but quotes you thousands more than you can afford, think with your pocket book. Consider price but not only price, factoring in experience, time available, as well as how helpful and courteous they are.
