If you’re planning to file for bankruptcy, it’s important that you choose the right attorney.  Unfortunately, bankruptcy filings have become a volume business for many attorneys, so it’s important to choose wisely.  Here are some helpful tips for choosing a bankruptcy attorney.

Seek an experienced, knowledgeable attorney who will give your bankruptcy case the time, attention, and effort it deserves.  It’s important that you choose an attorney who specializes in bankruptcy.  You do not want to use a generic attorney who handles a wide variety of legal cases.  Begin by asking for references from business owners who might know a good bankruptcy attorney.  If you have a personal attorney, usually he can recommend an attorney who specializes in bankruptcy law.

Another helpful method is to spend a day at bankruptcy court.  Not only will you learn more about the bankruptcy process, but you’ll also be able to observe bankruptcy attorneys in action.  At the courthouse, you can ask which attorneys specialize in bankruptcy.  You can also find out who sits on your local bankruptcy court panels.  Usually, only well-respected attorneys who regularly appear in bankruptcy court will be included in these panels.  Also be sure to get the names of attorneys on the local bankruptcy court debtor or creditor committees.  These can often be good sources of experienced bankruptcy attorneys.

When you meet with a potential bankruptcy attorney, be sure to ask for references from past clients.  Make sure you feel comfortable with the bankruptcy attorney – since you will be working closely with him for an extended period of time.  Be sure to ask lots of questions, and don’t accept evasive answers.  Some attorneys are very good at dodging questions by providing insufficient, vague answers.  Here are some questions you can ask when choosing an attorney.

What certifications do you have?
How many bankruptcy cases have you handled?
Roughly how many cases do you handle in a month? In a year?
How many bankruptcy filings are business bankruptcy filings?
Will I be working directly with you – and if not, who will I be working with?
How soon can you begin working on my bankruptcy case? What is the estimated timeline for completion?

Get specifics on what fees will be charged, and how often.  Don’t hire the cheapest lawyer.  As the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.”  You want an attorney who knows bankruptcy law very well, and will do a good job representing you.  Find an attorney whose fees are reasonable and fair based on local standards.  Consult with your local bar association if you need help determining what price range is considered “reasonable.”  Avoid price extremes – anyone who charges too much or too little probably shouldn’t be your attorney.