Bankruptcy

Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings and debt relief.

Counsel

12+

Avg. experience

14 yrs

Free consultations

68%

Sub-practices

§ Editorial

What to look for in a bankruptcy attorney.

— The Counsel editors

Chapter 7, Chapter 13, and Chapter 11 bankruptcy filings and debt relief.

Finding the right bankruptcy attorney requires careful consideration of experience, communication style, and fee structure. The attorneys listed here represent a broad cross-section of practitioners serving clients in this area of law.

“The means test determines which chapter you qualify for — and it is more nuanced than income alone. Allowable deductions for housing, transportation, and local expenses can bring a household below the threshold even when gross income appears too high. Run the numbers with an attorney before assuming you don't qualify for Chapter 7.”
— The Counsel editors

§ What to look for

01Clear explanation of Chapter 7 vs. Chapter 13 and which fits your situation
02Experience with your type of debt (consumer, business, student loans, tax debt)
03Knowledge of your state's specific exemption schedule
04Flat-fee structure for most consumer bankruptcy cases — avoid hourly billing here
05Willingness to answer questions without rushing you
06Experience handling creditor objections and adversary proceedings if needed

§ Questions to ask at your consultation

›Do I qualify for Chapter 7, or am I above the means test threshold?
›Which of my assets are protected under my state's exemptions?
›Will bankruptcy discharge my specific debts (student loans, taxes, alimony)?
›What does the automatic stay do, and when does it take effect?
›How long does the process take, and when does it affect my credit?
›Are there alternatives — debt negotiation, state court remedies — I should consider first?