If it’s time to hire a bankruptcy attorney, there are several ways for clients to ensure they hire the right lawyer for the case. It is important to practice due diligence when hiring a lawyer, rather than to hire the first lawyer in the phone book. Below are a few things clients should look for when hiring a Bankruptcy Lawyer In Tacoma Wa.
The Lawyer’s Experience
Filers should look for a lawyer who has a significant amount of experience with bankruptcy cases. While a lawyer may have experience in one area, they may not be qualified to handle a bankruptcy case. Clients should find out how long the attorney has practiced in the field, and they should determine how Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases are handled.
Expenses
Most bankruptcies cost between $1000 and $3000 depending on a few variables. Clients should be skeptical of attorneys who quote a flat fee without a consultation or specific info about the case. It is important to choose a lawyer who will take the time to discuss the case before offering an estimate, as these lawyers provide value for the client’s money.
Attorney/Client Relationship
During a bankruptcy case, a filer should choose a lawyer who strives to build a solid working relationship with clients. Below are some areas to consider:
* The attorney’s willingness to answer questions
* Whether the lawyer is using high-pressure sales tactics
* Whether the lawyer has a team of legal assistants
The attorney a client chooses should learn about the case, listen to concerns and help make the right choices. Clients should choose a Bankruptcy Lawyer In Tacoma Wa with helpful, friendly and knowledgeable staff, as they are usually the ones who handle the case’s routine aspects.
Reputation
There are many ways to assess an attorney’s reputation. Word of mouth is an effective way to judge the lawyer’s service, and clients can ask friends, family and coworkers for recommendations. A social media presence typically indicates that a lawyer stays connected to his or her clients, and that they care about their reputation in the field. These factors, along with the attorney’s BBB and bar association ratings, can give a client a good idea of the lawyer’s reputation.
