No one plans to file for bankruptcy. But when things happen beyond your control, it may be the best option. One of the most important things you can do before filing for bankruptcy is to ask questions. This is a great way to get a better understanding of the bankruptcy process and it often puts people’s minds at ease once they know they don’t have to go about it alone.
If you’re searching for a bankruptcy lawyer in Milwaukee, the Bankruptcy Law Center, LLP can help. That’s why we’ve compiled 6 important questions to ask your bankruptcy lawyer so that you can be prepared.
What Can Bankruptcy Do For Me?
If you’re wondering what bankruptcy can do for you, you’re not alone. This is one of the most common questions people have when they consider whether or not to file. Bankruptcy is a good solution for those who have more debt than they can afford to repay. Bankruptcy makes it possible for you to eliminate the legal obligation to pay most or all of your debts. It is designed to give you a fresh financial start. The process may seem overwhelming but filing is simple, especially with help from the Bankruptcy Law Center.
Here are a few ways filing can help:
- Eliminate most types of debt
- Stop collection activities and creditor harassment
- Give you a fresh start
1. How Long Have You Been a Bankruptcy Lawyer?
It’s important that you inquire about any potential lawyers’ experience. You can ask how long the attorney has offered bankruptcy services. You can also ask how many cases the attorney has completed. Feel free to gather as much information as you can about their experience, background, and success rate. When you come to the Bankruptcy Law Center, we’ll be more than happy to answer any of your questions. We’re experienced and trusted attorneys with over four decades of experience ready to take on any case.
2. Do I Need an Attorney to File?
Short answer: no. Bankruptcy can give you significant legal protections and the law does not require you to have a lawyer. However, filing for bankruptcy on your own can be especially complicated. In fact, many self-represented filers often find themselves worse off than they were before. Successfully navigating the bankruptcy code requires a deep knowledge of this area of law and the experience to know how to use it. Any mistakes made while filing for bankruptcy could result in your case being thrown out. For these reasons, it may be in your best interest to work with an experienced Milwaukee bankruptcy attorney.
3. What Portion of the Firm’s Focus is on Bankruptcy?
You may want to avoid working with an attorney who has little or no bankruptcy experience. Instead, consider bankruptcy attorneys who solely focus on bankruptcy cases. These folks are often your best bet, as they work within the bankruptcy laws on a daily basis. You deserve to work with experienced professionals well versed in the complex field of bankruptcy with an established reputation for fighting for their clients. The Bankruptcy Law Center, LLP is a local law firm specializing in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 consumer bankruptcies. Bankruptcy is all we do. We fully understand the bankruptcy laws and can help you get out of debt.
4. Which Type of Bankruptcy Should I Choose?
Depending on your specific situation, the Bankruptcy Code may allow you to either wipe out your debt completely through a Chapter 7 discharge or restructure your debt through a Chapter 13 repayment plan. You will need to describe your situation in full detail so that any potential lawyer can determine which option is best for you. After assessing your assets, liabilities, and overall financial situation, your bankruptcy attorney should be able to determine which type of personal bankruptcy is the right choice.
5. Will Bankruptcy Affect My Credit?
Many people are afraid of what bankruptcy will do to their credit score. But one of the biggest myths about bankruptcy is that it will ruin your credit forever. While it does hurt credit scores for a time, continuing to accumulate debt would be much worse. That’s why for many, bankruptcy is the only way they can become debt free and give their credit score time to improve. Though you can’t do anything about the amount of time bankruptcy remains on your credit report, you can take steps that will speed up the rate at which your score recovers.
Here are a few steps to help you financially recover:
- Always pay your bills before their due date. This will ensure you make all payments on time and you can avoid falling behind.
- Make a budget and stick to it so you never again accrue debts that you’re unable to pay down.
- Monitor your credit score to ensure you are using credit responsibly and paying each bill on time.
Have More Questions About Bankruptcy?
The Bankruptcy Law Center, LLP is a local law firm specializing in Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 consumer bankruptcies. Our team is dedicated to providing every client with advice, feedback, and a plan for getting the maximum benefits from bankruptcy. We have offices located throughout Southeastern Wisconsin ready to provide a simple and effective solution to your financial problems.
Contact us today to speak with a bankruptcy lawyer in Milwaukee.