
Bankruptcy attorneys specialize in assisting individuals or businesses in navigating the intricacies of bankruptcy law. With a deep understanding of the legal process, we provide guidance on how to proceed when facing insurmountable debt. Our expertise lies in determining the appropriate chapter of bankruptcy to file under and protecting our clients’ rights throughout the process.
We analyze each client’s financial situation to offer tailored advice on debt relief options. This includes evaluating assets, liabilities, income, and expenses to create a strategic plan geared towards achieving financial stability. With our experience, we aim to make the bankruptcy process as clear and stress-free as possible for our clients. Learn more about Bankruptcy Attorneys
Our role extends beyond filing paperwork; we advocate for our clients in court, negotiate with creditors, and work toward the best possible outcome. We understand the weight of financial troubles and strive to provide a clear path to a more secure financial future.
Understanding Bankruptcy Law
Bankruptcy law is designed to help individuals and businesses eliminate their debts or repay them under the protection of the bankruptcy court. Bankruptcy can provide a fresh start and a clear path forward for those overwhelmed by financial obligations.
Types of Bankruptcy
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy: Often referred to as “liquidation bankruptcy,” this process involves the sale of a debtor’s non-exempt property to pay off creditors. Eligibility to file for Chapter 7 depends on passing a means test.
Chapter 13 Bankruptcy: This is a “reorganization bankruptcy” for individuals with regular income who can pay back a portion of their debts through a repayment plan. It allows debtors to keep their assets while making payments to creditors over three to five years.
Chapter 11 Bankruptcy: Typically used by businesses, this form allows reorganization under a court-approved plan. Both individuals and businesses can seek relief under this chapter if the debts or income exceed the limits set by Chapter 13.
The Bankruptcy Process
- Credit Counseling: Within 180 days before filing, debtors must complete a credit counseling session.
- Filing the Bankruptcy Petition: Initiates the process, enacts an automatic stay that halts most collection actions, and includes detailed financial documents.
- Meeting of Creditors: Also called a 341 meeting, debtors answer questions about their finances and bankruptcy forms under oath.
- Bankruptcy Trustee: The court appoints a trustee to oversee the case, review documents, and sell non-exempt property in a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or supervise the repayment plan in a Chapter 13 bankruptcy.
- Discharge: After completing all necessary steps and payments, the court discharges the remaining dischargeable debt.
Qualifications for Filing Bankruptcy
- Chapter 7 Qualifications:
- Must pass the means test comparing your income to the median income for your state.
- Cannot have had a bankruptcy discharge in the previous eight years.
- Chapter 13 Qualifications:
- Steady income sufficient to pay back a portion of the debts.
- Secured and unsecured debt must be below certain thresholds.
- Chapter 11 Qualifications:
- Available to any business or individual unable to use Chapter 13.
- No debt or income restrictions, but the process is more complex and expensive.
Selecting a Bankruptcy Attorney
When facing bankruptcy, it’s vital for us to choose an attorney with the right skills and experience. We must also understand how to evaluate their credentials and have clear information about the cost and fee structures.
Skills and Experience
We prioritize attorneys who have a strong track record in bankruptcy law. It is important for us to select an attorney with experience in the specific type of bankruptcy we are considering, whether it be Chapter 7, Chapter 11, or Chapter 13. Relevant experience in court and with creditors can make a significant difference in the outcome of our case.
Evaluating Attorney Credentials
We assess credentials by reviewing the attorney’s education, state bar admission, and their standing with the American Bankruptcy Institute or similar professional organizations. A table can be a helpful way to compare credentials:
Attorney Name
Education
Bar Admission
Professional Associations
John Doe
J.D. from Harvard Law
New York, 2003
American Bankruptcy Institute
Jane Smith
J.D. from Yale Law
California, 2005
National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys
Cost and Fee Structures
Understanding the fee structure is imperative for us. We look for transparent fee agreements to avoid surprises. Attorneys may charge a flat fee or by the hour:
- Flat Fee: Best for straightforward bankruptcy filings.
- Hourly Rate: More common for complex cases.
Attorneys should provide us with a detailed breakdown of what services are covered, ensuring that we are fully aware of the cost implications before we proceed.