Do I Need an Attorney?

Prior to the New Bankruptcy Law, which went into effect October 17, 2005, many Chapter 7 bankruptcies that were simple could be filed without an attorney. Under the new code, there is very little room for errors and the additional paperwork, both in terms of evidence and documents required for writing. I would recommend that anyone considering filing a bankruptcy seek counsel. You will often see bankruptcies advertised for very cheap rates. Becareful. Paying very high fees does not necessarily guarantee that you are getting a competent and experienced bankruptcy attorney, but paying the lowest bidder usually means that you aren't getting the best representation that you could. Many of these "low cost filiers" start cheap, but once you are locked in (you've paid enough of the fees that you can't really leave to find someone wlse, they tend to begain adding on charges. Find an attorney that you get a good gut reaction from. If possible, use some one off of a referral. We're very proud of the percentage of our firm's business that is form referral. It also helps us stay in contact with our clients, to see where they are years after their filings. A Chapter 13 bankruptcy is more complicated than a Chapter 7. It should never be attempted by anyone other than an attorney very experienced specifically with Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Law.