Facing bankruptcy is scary and overwhelming. However, over half a million people filed for bankruptcy in 2020 (544,463 to be exact). So while the situation isn’t ideal, you are not alone.
Before you do anything, though, you should consider a bankruptcy attorney to help you navigate the process. Read on for our tips to find the best bankruptcy attorney in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Focus on Experience
Don’t just pick the first attorney that comes up on your search results. Find one that is experienced in bankruptcy cases and specializes in consumer and small business bankruptcy cases. You wouldn’t hire a brain surgeon to perform your heart surgery, so don’t hire a real estate lawyer to handle your bankruptcy.
Get Referrals
Ask your family and friends if they have referrals for good bankruptcy lawyers. If you know a general practice lawyer or another specialty lawyer, ask them who they would recommend. A referral from a fellow lawyer is a strong indicator that the lawyer is highly respected in the legal community.
Once you get a shortlist of potential attorneys together, do your own research. Look at their websites, see what types of experience they have, what certifications or special training they have in bankruptcies, and read reviews. Check to see if they are a member of the National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys (NACBA), which is the only organization dedicated to training attorneys who handle bankruptcy cases.
Fee Structure
Before agreeing to work with an attorney, understand their fee structure. Typically, bankruptcy attorneys will charge a flat fee for the filing. Chapter 13 bankruptcy will generally be more expensive than Chapter 7 as they are more complex.
The more complicated your case, the more expensive it will be. Make sure the compensation is proportionate to the amount of work they will do.
Communication Style
Large firms may have many different attorneys working on your case, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but it may mean that they have a large number of cases and you won’t get personalized attention. If you want more one-on-one interaction with your attorney, then a small or medium-sized firm is probably right for you.
Compatibility
You need to be comfortable with your attorney as you will have to be honest with them about your finances. Bankruptcies are particularly touchy situations, so there will be hard conversations as you determine what the best outcome for your situation is.
Make sure the attorney you choose is someone you feel comfortable talking honestly with and trust. Go with your gut after speaking to them.
If you’re looking for a small firm in Myrtle Beach, check them out.
Hire an Experienced Myrtle Beach Bankruptcy Attorney Today
You should not try to take on the bankruptcy process alone. It is something that requires an experienced attorney familiar with the bankruptcy process. If you’re considering bankruptcy in Myrtle Beach, don’t try to do it yourself.
Did you find these tips useful? If so, be sure to come back for new articles and check out some of our other legal articles.
