Hiring a lawyer is never easy, but the process need not be one of trial and fire. You can hire the right lawyer the first time, especially an experienced North Central Texas bankruptcy lawyer. This blog guide shows you how.
Price?
Let’s get right to the most important question you likely have: how much will it cost? Bankruptcy is not free, but it need not be a costly affair for you. A good Texas bankruptcy lawyer will charge from $1,000 to $2,000 for most Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases. Some are willing to negotiate with you via a payment plan. Obviously you are not filing bankruptcy simply because you have money. If money is an issue, ask for their basic rates. Most lawyers have set rates, especially bankruptcy lawyers.
Experience?
Experience really is more important than price, mainly because of the value an experienced bankruptcy lawyer has for your case. Say you’re in danger of losing your $150,000 home you and your family have put a lot of time and capital into. In this case, filing bankruptcy may prevent the bank from taking it. That’s much more important than a minor difference in rates. A lawyer less capable, and you’ll know usually by court room experience, may do more harm than good. In many cases they charge less because they lack the experience to truly help you, or lack the time.
Time?
You may get a lawyer real “cheap” only to find they spend little if any time researching your case, preparing for court, and helping you discharge the most debt. Bankruptcy requires a lot of time and effort. True, the actual court room process is short, but any mistakes in showing debts and assets, any questions from the creditors, or at worst any laws broken can endanger your discharge.
Asking Questions
The old saying is the only bad question is the one you never ask. Well, you’ll know immediately if a bankruptcy lawyer know his or her stuff. Texas is little different than other states: good lawyers answer complex questions involving the law. Good bankruptcy lawyers can put you at ease. In order to hire the right one, ask as many questions as possible, maybe even in your first consultation. It’s a good way to hire a Texas lawyer.
Making the Call
You know some rates, some experience points look great to you, some communicate well, and others miss the mark entirely. Who do you hire? Don’t go with your gut on this one. Factor in price, it’s important. Who has the most value to your case and can put the most time into your case? Who seems easiest to work with?
In a Texas Chapter 7 bankruptcy, you’ll be discharged from debt in a matter of months. In Chapter 13 bankruptcy, the process takes longer. In either case, your lawyer needs experience both in and out of the court room. In the court room, they protect your rights. Outside the court room, they do the same, keeping creditors from hassling you and answering all your questions. At least the best ones do.
