Benefits of a Chapter 7 Lawyer On Your Side In Bankruptcy Court
Before You File
Before you file, an attorney will help you determine if filing is the right answer for your needs. Often, they can help you look through your financial situation and give you information to make an informed decision. Often, filing for bankruptcy seems like the right answer, but it may not be the prefect answer for your needs. There are some expenses and downsides to filing, and with the help of an attorney who is familiar with all of these consequences, you can decide if it is the best solution.
Before you file, an attorney can also help you understand the laws and exemptions and the way they apply to your case. You may not realize that the laws allow you to keep some of your most valuable possessions. You may not realize that the laws prevent you from discharging certain types of debts. If you hire a Chapter 7 lawyer, you will not have any unwelcome surprises.
While You File
The bankruptcy process can be quite overwhelming. A Chapter 7 lawyer will work with you to make sure that all of the paperwork and forms are filed properly and on time. They will answer any questions you have about the forms.
Some of the paperwork necessary for bankruptcy can be confusing. Which debts and assets do you list? What do the various terms mean? Inaccuracies, even those that are unintentional, can lead to your bankruptcy being denied. This is not what you want. With professional help, you can avoid this possibility altogether. Of course, mistakes can happen, but the risk is greatly reduced.
There are different times during the bankruptcy process, like the meeting of your creditors, when you will have to show up in court. A good attorney will go to these meetings with you. This can help you feel calmer, and also help you represent yourself well if needed. Often these meetings are no big deal, but those few times that they are, you can benefit from having someone there with you.
After You File
Some attorneys will even stay with you after you file, helping you rebuild your life a bit after bankruptcy. These benefits are incredibly helpful throughout the hiring process. That is why many who file choose to hire a Chapter 7 lawyer, in spite of the additional costs. Payment plans and the ability to pay after you have dealt with your debt can make, it possible to afford the help of an attorney while you are in the bankruptcy process. Remember, the result of not having one could be having your case denied, so weigh the pros and cons carefully before making a decision.