Orange County Bankruptcy Lawyers
Hiring a third party may be the last thing on your mind when you're filing for bankruptcy, but there are several ways an Orange County bankruptcy lawyer can help you. For one thing, creditors will be less likely to harass debtors with Orange County bankruptcy lawyers on their side. A good lawyer can also help you through the ins and outs of the bankruptcy system, explain messages from the court, and help you avoid mistakes that may compromise your case. And when bankruptcy laws change—as they tend to do in an uncertain economy—you can be sure Orange County bankruptcy lawyers will keep you posted and help you plan your next move.
Choosing an Orange County Bankruptcy Lawyer
Finding the right Orange County Bankruptcy lawyer takes time and patience. There are lots of Orange County bankruptcy lawyers out there, but each has his own style, and you want one who understands your particular situation. Word of mouth is the best way to find an Orange County bankruptcy lawyer, as you can get firsthand feedback on how they go about their job. Family, friends, and business associates who have had the same experience can point you to potential Orange County bankruptcy lawyers.
Take your time to get to know each prospect. Watch Orange County bankruptcy lawyers in courts, visit their offices, and ask to talk to previous clients. Make sure to have a list of questions on hand, such as their certifications, whether or not they work with a team, and how your case will be handled.
Filing Bankruptcy with an Attorney
Once you've found an Orange County bankruptcy lawyer, he or she will go over your case and decide on the best approach. They will also help you with the means test, which will determine whether or not you are eligible for federal aid. You will also need to calculate the costs of filing. The national average is $1,700, but Orange County bankruptcy lawyers may charge more or less depending on your situation.
Next, you will need to refer all your creditors to your Orange County bankruptcy lawyer. An "automatic stay" is enforced as soon as your lawyer files your case, so creditors can no longer contact you. You will then meet with your creditors in what is called a ""341 meeting,"" wherein you ensure that all debts are accounted for. Your Orange County bankruptcy lawyer should prepare you for this ahead of time by double-checking your files. If you filed for Chapter 7 or liquidation bankruptcy, you will usually get a notice of discharge of debt within 60 days of the meeting. If you filed for Chapter 13 or a repayment plan, you will receive this notice after you've made your last payment.