Are you considering bankruptcy? If so, it is highly recommended you enter the bankruptcy courts with a skilled attorney on your side. But how do you find a reasonable, caring, and trustworthy bankruptcy attorney? The key is to ask the right questions. Attorney's fees can end up costing you a lot of money, and an irresponsible lawyer can waste your time. Yet by asking carefully calculated and thought-through questions, you may be able to locate a trustworthy bankruptcy attorney that can help you with your case.

The first question you should ask any bankruptcy attorney is whether or not you should even file for bankruptcy. Depending on your circumstances, there may be alternative methods for bankruptcy that you need to explore. You may be able to arrange a debt settlement or negotiate with your creditors to create a payment plan. You should only file for bankruptcy if creditors are threatening to sue or seize your assets, or if you believe that the discharge could prove beneficial. An experienced bankruptcy attorney will be able to help you make an informed decision as to whether or not you should file for bankruptcy or if you should pursue an alternative.

If an attorney thinks that you should file for bankruptcy, ask what type of bankruptcy you should file for. There are several different options. Some people file for a Chapter 7 liquidation bankruptcy, whereas other individuals will file for a Chapter 13 reorganization bankruptcy. A Chapter 11 bankruptcy is typically reserved for businesses, and is also considered a reorganization. If you want more information about reorganization bankruptcies or Chapter 7s, a lawyer can elaborate. He or she can probably investigate your situation and determine what bankruptcy would best serve you.

Also, as your potential bankruptcy lawyer how long the bankruptcy process will take. All bankruptcies run on different timelines, but an attorney will be able to tell you when your case will generally be filed and the basic steps in the process. As well, you can get a general estimate of when you expect the case to get resolved. If a lawyer will not give you any information about your timeline, be wary. He or she may be trying to drag the process in order to get money from you.

Ask your lawyer how much your bankruptcy will cost. Chances are that if you are filing for bankruptcy, finances are tight. You will want to include court fees, attorney fees and any unexpected fees in your calculations. You will want to determine if there are any complications in your case which could cost more, and will want to ask your attorney if he or she offers any payment plans. This could help you to repay your costs to the attorney in due time while recovering financially.

Also, you need to check and see if there are any red flags in your case. An honest attorney will let you know if you need to correct any issues before filing. For example, you may need to deal with an unwise purchase or handle another issue prior to filing. You want an attorney who will answer your questions honestly, and can give you a good overlook considering the possibility of your bankruptcy. Make sure to hire an attorney who cares about you as an individual and wants to do everything possible to help your bankruptcy be a success. Use this directory to locate a bankruptcy attorney near you who can aid you with your Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing.