Filing for bankruptcy raises several concerns for the prospective filer, from the costs to whether or not he’ll need an attorney to represent his case. Each question that comes to mind raises even more negative thoughts because of the financial destruction many believe bankruptcy causes. While bankruptcy may affect your credit score, most individuals overstate the negative effects the process can have. Sure, filing will ruin your score a bit, but bankruptcy also aims to alleviate the debt you have accrued. For the individual still considering whether or not to file, some common responses to questions may help make the decision much easier.
Do I have to Attend Court?
In most cases, yes, you do have to attend court, but often only one or two times. The times you do have to attend court will be for meetings with the creditors where all of the individuals you owe money to will gather and ask you series of questions. These questions will include, “Have you ever filed for bankruptcy?” “What is your current residence?” “How long have you lived there?” These questions will be short, simple and to the point; no type of harassing or vilifying questions will be allowed. If you hire a Woodland Hills bankruptcy attorney, he will appear at your side and help you answer any of the complex questions a creditor might ask.
Do I need an Attorney?
You can file and complete the process on your own without the assistance of a professional; however, you run the risk of committing mistakes and ultimately damaging your chances of successfully wiping away or reducing your debt. Individuals can purchase do-it-yourself kits, which tend to cost no more than 100 dollars, but with hundreds of professionals willing to help, hiring an expert seems like the smart decision.
Hiring Professionals Who Are Not Attorneys
Just because an individual says he can help you file and submit your claim doesn’t mean you should trust him. Bankruptcy companies and individual professionals who do not have a law degree should not be so easily trusted. An attorney, such as an Encino bankruptcy lawyer, is monitored by the American Bar Association to ensure all the bankruptcy claims he files are done correctly. A bankruptcy company or individual professional does not get regulated by an overseeing governing board, allowing the so-called expert to do as he pleases. Don’t waste your money; hire an attorney.
I would say trying to file bankruptcy on your own is a bad idea, but for those who don't have the case to pay a lawyer there may be no other option.