3 Things To Know About Hiring A Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney

If you are having financial difficulties and are running out of options, filing for bankruptcy may be the best option. There are different kinds of bankruptcy, but most individuals file for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. A Chapter 7 filing will discharge many of your debts and give you a fresh start. A Chapter 13 filing restructures your debts and involves a payment plan. If a Chapter 7 filing best suits your needs, hiring a bankruptcy attorney can help you through this process. Here are three things to know. 

Experience Matters

Since there are different kinds of bankruptcies, finding a lawyer specializing in personal bankruptcy instead of business filings is a good idea. First, search for a lawyer with experience handling Chapter 7 bankruptcies. Bankruptcy law is complex, and an experienced Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney will be better equipped to navigate the process and address any issues that arise. Next, shop around and ask about a lawyer's background before committing to their services. The more you know about a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer's experience, the better. 

Fee Structure

Another thing to consider when hiring an attorney is their fee structure. While paying for a lawyer may be challenging, it's often the best option if you need to file for bankruptcy. Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorneys usually charge a flat fee, but it's essential to understand what that fee covers and if there are any additional costs. The average cost of a Chapter 7 bankruptcy lawyer's fees is $1,450. Filing fees for this type of bankruptcy average out to $338. Considering the fee structure is essential before hiring a lawyer. You need to know how much you are responsible for and when. 

How Long It Takes

Knowing how long your Chapter 7 filing will take can also come in handy. When hiring a Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney, it's a good idea to discuss the timeline before committing to their services. Your lawyer will be able to give you an accurate estimate of how long this process will take. In most cases, it will take four to six months before your bankruptcy filing is complete. However, if your case is more complex, it may take longer. 

There are a few things to consider when hiring a Chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney. First, make sure you go with a lawyer that has experience with Chapter 7 filings. Second, discuss the fee structure before committing to a lawyer. Finally, consider the timeline of your bankruptcy as well.