Ok, so you have decided that perhaps bankruptcy might be a good option for you, you found an attorney who offers a free consultation (be weary of attorneys who don’t offer a free consultation for bankruptcy). So now you are wondering what you can expect to get out of the free consultation.
Determine whether you are a good candidate for bankruptcy at all, and if yes which chapter would be best for you.
Be prepared to explain your story and how you got into your financial problem to the bankruptcy attorney. Make sure not to leave out any critical parts because they could have a huge impact on your case. Also be prepared to explain to the attorney any monies that you have received over the last year and more specifically the wages you received over the last six months. The attorney will ask you questions about your assets as well. Assets will include anything you own (bank accounts, cars, houses, jewelry, furniture, investment accounts, etc.) If your name is on a title of something but you don’t think you own it, be sure to inform the attorney that you are on the title. Based on these answers your attorney will be able to determine which type of bankruptcy would be right for you.
Bankruptcy No-No’s
Your attorney should ask you questions on whether or not you have transferred any assets in the last few years, whether you have paid off any debts to family members, or whether you have committed fraud for bankruptcy purposes.
Your Debts
You will need to explain to the attorney about the debts you have. You don’t have to be too specific as to the amount but you need to be specific as to the type of debt, when it was incurred, and whether or not you made any repayments towards that debt.
Differences between Chapter 7 bankruptcy and Chapter 13 bankruptcy
Your attorney will be able to explain the difference between the two bankruptcy options as well as help you determine which one is better suited for your case. The attorney can make that decision based on your assets and your income.
The Bankruptcy process
Your attorney will be able to explain the bankruptcy process to you in a manner that you can understand. He or she will be able to inform you of the costs, the documents you will need, as well as the court process.
The Meeting of the Creditors
The attorney will need to explain to you about the meeting of the creditors (341 meeting). This is your one “court” appearance. You should ask the attorney about what questions will be asked of you and how you should answer them.
Life after bankruptcy
Make sure to have your bankruptcy attorney explain to you how your life will be post bankruptcy. Ask questions about getting credit cards, getting a car loan, or getting approved for a home loan.
If you would like to schedule a free consultation with a bankruptcy lawyer then contact Shmucher Law, PL at 954.309.5559 or 305.741.5553. We offer consultations in our main Bankruptcy Office in Miami or in our satellite offices (by appointment) in Boca Raton, Fort Lauderdale, Plantation, or Sunrise Florida.