We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

HOW DO I FIND A BANKRUPTCY ATTORNEY?

When you have vision problems, you search for a doctor who specializes in optometry. In addition, most people prefer to go to an optometrist who has a number of years of experience practicing in that field of specialty. Likewise, if you are considering bankruptcy alternatives, you should carefully consider the experience and qualifications of attorneys who specialize in bankruptcy law. A very small percentage of attorneys in North Carolina are certified by the North Carolina State Bar as specialists in Consumer Bankruptcy Law. Before you select an attorney to represent your interests, ask him or her how long he or she has been practicing bankruptcy law, what percentage of his or her practice is devoted to bankruptcy law, and whether he or she has been certified as a specialist in Consumer Bankruptcy Law by the North Carolina State Bar. You also should not hesitate to ask the attorney to provide you with written information concerning his or her qualifications and experience. Keep in mind that you are making the hiring decision, not the other way around! As an employer, you should take your time and investigate the qualifications and background of a potential employee. If you are not comfortable with the attorney, do not hire him or her.

You should always remember that the person with the biggest advertisement or the cheapest rate is not necessarily the most qualified person to represent your interests. Also, a less qualified bankruptcy attorney who bills at a lower hourly rate may end up costing you more in the long run.

One good way to find a trustworthy bankruptcy attorney is to seek recommendations from other people, especially attorneys, who you know and trust. If you feel comfortable with a bankruptcy attorney, you should carefully read fee agreements and other documents that the attorney asks you to sign. You should not hesitate to ask questions concerning the attorney's representation of your interests. Also, you should not hire an attorney unless he or she agrees to represent you throughout the entire case. Also, be wary of a bankruptcy attorney who tries to "sell" you on the idea of filing bankruptcy. Bankruptcy is not always the best or only option. If bankruptcy is not the right answer for you, a good attorney will offer a range of other suggestions.

CAN I FILE BANKRUPTCY WITHOUT AN ATTORNEY?

Although it may be possible for some people to file a bankruptcy case without the assistance of an attorney, it is not a step to be taken lightly. The process is difficult, and you may lose property or other rights if you do not know the law. It takes patience and careful preparation, and your financial well-being is at stake. Very few people have been able to successfully file Chapter 13 on their own. Although many people may feel that they cannot afford to hire a bankruptcy attorney, many people actually cannot afford not to hire a bankruptcy attorney.

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LAW OFFICE OF J. BARON GROSHON, P. A.