When you are struggling to make ends meet and you are hoping to obtain debt relief, you are probably concerned with how much filing a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 case will cost you. Financial struggles can be nerve-wracking and trying to come up with money to pay an attorney and bankruptcy cost can feel overwhelming.
Finding the Right Bankruptcy Lawyer
If this is your situation, it is important to retain the right attorney. An experienced bankruptcy attorney can not only help you save money, but also prevent you from losing your most valuable assets. You may be tempted to retain the “cheapest” lawyer out there, but you don’t want to put your future in the hands of a lawyer that does not have bankruptcy experience or that you cannot rely on. Thus, it is imperative that you research the attorney to ensure that he or she is knowledgeable in the area of bankruptcy and has a solid reputation for helping people in your situation.
You may also think you can save money by working with a bankruptcy petition preparer instead of an attorney. As the name suggests, a bankruptcy petition preparer helps you prepare your paperwork needed to file your case. However, he or she cannot give you legal advice or represent you during your case. This means that if any problems occur in your filing, you don’t have anyone there to help you.
An Attorney Will Help You Manage A Bankruptcy Cost
Bankruptcy attorneys understand better than anyone that your finances are in trouble, so their fees are typically reasonable. In fact, when you compare the small amount you pay your lawyer to the thousands of dollars you can discharge in your bankruptcy case, you are getting quite a deal! Additionally, most lawyers are willing to assist you in finding a way for you to pay for your filing. Below are a few considerations:
- Start setting aside small amounts of money as soon as you think it is likely you will seek bankruptcy protection. Planning ahead is the best way to prepare yourself for filing a Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 case.
- Seek help from your friends and family. It is essential that they understand the money is a gift because the amount they give you will be discharged in your bankruptcy filing. If you want, you can repay the amount after your bankruptcy case is over.
- It is generally a bad idea to borrow from your retirement savings to pay for a bankruptcy case. A loan from your 401k can have negative tax consequences and your retirement funds are exempt in your bankruptcy.
- Discuss a payment plan with your bankruptcy lawyer.
Contact a Brevard County Bankruptcy Attorney at Faro & Crowder, PA
If you are interested in learning more about how a bankruptcy filing will impact your debt, contact Faro Crowder, PA to schedule an appointment. We are located in Melbourne, Florida and serve residents and businesses of the Space Coast and Brevard County.
The information on this blog or any blog is not intended as, and should not be taken as, legal advice.