what to expect at first appointment with bankruptcy lawyer

by Prof. Geoffrey Rohan 9 min read

What to expect from your bankruptcy attorney Initial consultation: During the appointment, you may be requested to complete a form that requests some basic financial information. You should have some information ready to fill out this form, or at the very least discuss the case with your attorney.

Most initial bankruptcy consultations last approximately 40-60 minutes. The bankruptcy attorney will ask you various questions about your assets, your debt, and your income. While these questions may seem extremely personal, a bankruptcy lawyer cannot evaluate your situation without a complete financial picture.

Full Answer

What is the meeting of creditors in bankruptcy?

You will want to bring either a recent credit report, last bill for each creditor, or spreadsheet listing who you owe money to and how much you know. The initial consultation generally lasts 30 to 60 minutes, depending how complex your case is. Be candid with the attorney. Reveal everything. Don’t hold back.

What does a bankruptcy trustee look for when reviewing your papers?

Some prospective clients arrive with prepared questions and take notes during the consultation. This is always encouraged. MULTIPLE MEETINGS MAY BE REQUIRED BEFORE A BANKRUPTCY CASE CAN BE FILED: In order to prepare a bankruptcy petition, our firm must review – and in some instances file with the Court – numerous documents.

What does a bankruptcy trustee do when administering my case?

What to Expect at a Consultation with a Bankruptcy Attorney At the Law Office of David A. Bhaerman, we typically set aside 60-90 minutes for the initial consultation with a potential client. We ask you general questions about your debt, your income, and any assets you may have to help build a financial picture of your situation.

How does the Chapter 7 bankruptcy trustee pay my creditors?

Oct 31, 2014 · During the initial appointment, the bankruptcy lawyer will review your current monthly income during the past 6 months to determine whether your household income is considered above-median or below-median income.

What does a bankruptcy attorney ask you?

A bankruptcy attorney will ask you why you're considering filing for bankruptcy and determine whether filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy will help you solve your financial problem.

Why do people show up in bankruptcy lawyers?

Most people show up in an attorney’s office because they need help with one of a small number of problems— and the attorney will be aware of this pattern. For instance, when a bankruptcy attorney asks you what prompted you to call, it’s likely that you’ll say that your debts are piling up and that the stress is becoming unbearable. But you could be facing one of the following situations, too, and if you are, the lawyer will want to know about it because it will require quick attention:

Can an attorney text you?

Attorneys have the option, but are not required, to send text messages to you. You will receive up to 2 messages per week from Martindale-Nolo. Frequency from attorney may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Your number will be held in accordance with our Privacy Policy.