Calling a bankruptcy lawyer
These days most people’s first solution to any problem is to look at the internet. Chances are you are reading this because you typed Miami (or Kendall or Ft Lauderdale) bankruptcy. Now, that’s not a bad first step, but flipping through endless websites isn’t actually going to solve anything. Many are sponsored by credit card companies or misleading “Credit repair” services.
The only way to understand what a bankruptcy can and can’t do for you and whether it’s the best choice for you is to speak to a qualified bankruptcy law firm. Hopefully us, but somebody with a good reputation.
Most quality firms will offer you a free initial consultation. Now you need to prepare:
- Take the time off from work and arrange for transportation. A typical initial consultation takes 30-45 min. If you need a ride to our offices please arrange that the day before. If there is an issue please be courteous and call to reschedule.
- Form your list of questions and paperwork. This means bringing with you the documentation we asked you for, as well as anything you have received that gives you concern. If you are seeking help because your home is in foreclosure, bring the foreclosure papers with you.
- Show up (on time please!) with any friend of family member involved in the decision. If you usually consult mom, girlfriend, husband or your cat whenever you make a big choice, please have them along. That way we can answer everyone’s questions. This goes double if you are married even if you two have decided that it’s “your problem”.
- Fill out the questionnaire. We ask our clients to fill out a short 3 page questionnaire with basics such as name/address, real estate, etc. About a 1/3 of the people don’t finish it. If you aren’t willing to invest the 5 minutes to fill out the form, how is our 40 minute conversation going to be productive?
Fortunately most of the people who see us are prompt, courteous and ask intelligent, thoughtful questions. The conversations are constructive and meaningful. Even the ones that don’t move forward at least have a clear understanding of what bankruptcy is, how it can help them, and hopefully an understanding of the alternatives as well. For those that do move forward... Well these nice thank yous speak for themselves