In these trying economic times, the prospect of no longer being financially solvent looms large in the minds of many people, especially those who are living paycheck to paycheck. The reasons for declaring bankruptcy vary widely depending on an individual’s financial circumstances, but no matter the causes involved, the process itself is a daunting one. There are so many variables involved that finding a competent lawyer to guide a person through can make all the difference. Here are some key characteristics of a good bankruptcy lawyer.
Knowledge
For most people who have recently become bankrupt, the fear of the unknown can be overwhelming. Bankruptcy claimants often feel lost, not even knowing the legal terms and categories involved in filing a claim. A Rockville bankruptcy lawyer needs to have a complete and up-to-date knowledge of bankruptcy law. The attorney should be able to tell a client whether bankruptcy is the right move for them, help discern the right chapter of bankruptcy to file and be able to guide the client through any potential legal hurdles that arise.
Communication
It’s not enough for a lawyer to know the law themselves. A lawyer isn’t just being hired to file paperwork. They’re supposed to shepherd their client through an incredibly complicated system and create peace of mind during a difficult time. Warning signs of a poor communicator include not being around during office hours, not answering the phone or simply failing to return calls. If they do these things, it’s probably time to start looking for a new attorney. Don’t forget to factor in how a lawyer communicates to the court as well! Simple errors like typos and misprints can cause unnecessary headaches for a client.
It takes a very specific and oftentimes rare combination of talents and skills to make a good bankruptcy lawyer. No matter which type of bankruptcy a potential client chooses to file, the important thing to remember is that the client is in control of the process. Bankruptcy is a difficult process to go through, and everyone deserves the best representation they can get. Stay empowered by staying informed.