Bankruptcy lawyers benefit from a bad economy, but clients are typically at a loss when it comes to finding help. With mounting desperation, many people choose a lawyer based on price or advertisements. However, choosing the right attorney can make the difference between financial recovery and long-lasting pain. Those considering bankruptcy should look for the following qualities in a bankruptcy lawyer in Hamilton OH.
Getting What’s Paid For
Many people choose a bankruptcy lawyer based primarily on price, which makes sense because money is the root of the issue. However, prices can range from $1000-$3000 depending on a client’s location, and it is important for the client to ensure they’re getting the services they need. If a lawyer’s prices are offering counsel at a lower cost than other area lawyers, that should be a sign that the attorney is inexperienced or will cut corners during the case.
Bankruptcy Knowledge
Technically speaking, any lawyer can provide bankruptcy help. However, only those who focus on such cases are worth hiring. Clients should not use an attorney’s career length as an indication of their skill, but they should ask what percentage of the practice is devoted to bankruptcy. If a lawyer’s ad lists a dozen practice areas, the client should find an attorney who devotes most or all of their time to bankruptcy cases.
Updated on Code Changes
Congress enacted the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer Protection Act. The act was intended to keep habitual filers from manipulating the system, and it brought sweeping reforms to the bankruptcy industry. These changes made it more difficult for those who meet the minimum threshold for Chapter 7; in some cases, such debtors must repay the debt through reorganization rather than receive forgiveness. Additionally, those seeking bankruptcy must receive credit counseling before they can file. It’s almost impossible for someone who isn’t a Bankruptcy Lawyer in Hamilton OH to determine the legislation’s effects on a particular case.
It may seem obvious, but the most important factor clients should look for is a solid relationship with the attorney. Filing for bankruptcy is an emotional decision for many people, and filers should feel right about what they’re doing and who they schedule an appointment with.
