If you are planning on filing for bankruptcy, you need to hire a New York bankruptcy attorney to handle your case. Although it can be tempting to try to manage this on your own, bankruptcy should never be a DIY project.
At Grady BK, PLLC, our goal is to provide our clients with the expertise and assistance they need as they navigate bankruptcy in New York. We understand that this can be a very confusing and overwhelming process, which is why we prioritize each and every one of our clients, ensuring we provide the services they need for their case. We focus on providing an empathetic approach that takes your individual goals and needs into consideration. In this article, we will be discussing the process of hiring a bankruptcy lawyer and why it is essential that you seek legal advice for debt relief.
How a Bankruptcy Attorney Helps
It is not uncommon for New York residents to be tempted by the idea of filing for bankruptcy on their own. After all, you are most likely in a tight financial situation and don’t want to pay for legal assistance. However, it is never a good idea to proceed with a bankruptcy case on your own, as this can be a very complex process.
Here are some of the services a New York bankruptcy attorney provides that can be essential for a successful bankruptcy case.
Evaluates Your Case
Before you proceed with filing for bankruptcy, you need to understand the complexities of your finances. In some situations, bankruptcy may not actually be the best option, which is where a bankruptcy attorney can help.
An attorney can evaluate your case to understand the type and quantity of debt you have. They can then instruct you on whether or not bankruptcy is the right way to go or if there is another kind of debt relief option available.
Provides Expertise
The different bankruptcy chapters in New York can be very confusing if you are not an expert in this area. A bankruptcy attorney has the expertise needed to help you understand what these chapters mean, what they provide, and what the requirements are.
A bankruptcy attorney can help you determine whether or not you qualify for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy. They can also help you understand what advantages and disadvantages these options have for your situation.
Help With Documentation
A lot of documentation is required when you file for bankruptcy, and this can often lead to issues. An attorney will help you collect the documentation you need for your case, ensuring you have everything you need to qualify. They will also help you fill out the bankruptcy petition, which can be incredibly challenging to do on your own without any legal knowledge.
Additionally, a bankruptcy lawyer can help you send trustee documents and uncover hard-to-find financial documents.
Handles Communication and Attends Hearings
A particularly intimidating aspect of bankruptcy is creditor negotiations. When you hire a bankruptcy attorney, they can handle this on your behalf so that you aren’t pushed around by unhappy creditors.
Your attorney will also attend hearings with you, including the mandatory meeting of creditors so that your rights are upheld.
Choosing the Right Bankruptcy Attorney in New York
Now that you know what a New York bankruptcy attorney does, how do you go about choosing a bankruptcy attorney? There are many options available, which can make it difficult to know what to look for before making a decision.
Here are a few things to take into consideration when evaluating your options in New York:
- Location: Different states have different bankruptcy laws, so it is essential that you only hire a bankruptcy attorney who is in New York.
- Expertise: Not just any type of attorney will be the right fit for your bankruptcy case as they need to specifically work in bankruptcy. This ensures they will have the experience needed to handle your case and the various complexities around New York bankruptcy laws.
- Compensation: Every bankruptcy lawyer will have different types of fees, so this is something to take into consideration. Their fee structure should be transparent so that you know exactly how much you will be paying before you proceed. Be very wary of attorneys who do not disclose their fees or make them overly difficult to understand.
- Compatibility: Before you officially hire an attorney, you need to have a discussion regarding your needs. Not only does this ensure they have the experience required, but it can also help you determine whether or not the two of you are compatible.
FAQ Section
Do I really need a bankruptcy attorney?
Although it is not legally required that you hire a bankruptcy attorney, this is the only way to ensure your bankruptcy case will go smoothly and successfully and that you don’t lose your property..
How much does a bankruptcy lawyer cost?
A bankruptcy lawyer’s fees will vary greatly, especially when it comes to the type of bankruptcy. Generally speaking, you can expect to pay anywhere between $1,600 to $6000 depending on whether you are filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 bankruptcy and how complex your case is.
Can an attorney help me avoid bankruptcy?
Depending on your financial situation, a bankruptcy attorney may be able to help you find other alternatives to bankruptcy.
New York’s Top Compassionate Bankruptcy Attorney
Are you looking for Watertown, NY, bankruptcy help? At Grady BK, PLLC, we can help you with every step of the bankruptcy process in New York. We can assist you in evaluating your financial situation to pick the right type of bankruptcy as well as proceed with the filing process.
At Grady BK, PLLC, we provide a personalized approach for each of our clients, ensuring you feel as though all of your needs are being met. Whether you haven’t decided on a type of bankruptcy or know exactly how you would like to proceed, we are here to help you move forward with your bankruptcy case.
Contact us today at 315-299-9005 to discuss your financial situation with a New York bankruptcy attorney. Our team at Grady BK, PLLC, is here to help you with every step of the bankruptcy process.
