What to Expect at the First Meeting with a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Attorney

Here is what to expect when you first meet a chapter 7 bankruptcy attorney:     

I, like most Fresno attorneys, do not charge for the first consultation.  If you contacted an attorney that wants to charge right away, try someone else first.  Remember, your chief goal is to determine whether you should file bankruptcy.  It's also important to feel comfortable with the attorney.  Trust your instincts.  There are a lot of attorneys that file Chapter 7 bankruptcies in Central California. 

The first meeting can last anywhere from 30 minutes to 90 minutes.  The attorney's goal should be to explain the bankruptcy process and determine whether bankruptcy is the best solution.  

This first meeting will broadly the bankruptcy process.  You should have all your questions answered.  The attorney should have a broad understanding your personal finances.  These topics include your assets, income, and expenses.  At the end, you should feel more comfortable deciding whether you want to file bankruptcy.  You should be quoted a price to file bankruptcy.  I typically charge between $1200 and $1500 per bankruptcy.  The Eastern District of California Bankruptcy Court charges $306.  There are two online bankruptcy classes that cost as low as $35. 

It is helpful to bring copies of the following documents: 

1.  Driver License

2.  Social Security Card 
3.  Last two years of filed tax returns 
4. Last six months income stubs.  (Pay stubs, unemployment, disability, etc.)  5.  Lawsuits, garnishments, foreclosures, abstract of judgments or tax liens.
6. Retirement statements (Your most recent 401k, PERS, STRS, and/or pension statements
7. Title certificates to all cars, trailers, Boats, etc.  8. Most recent invoice statements to vehicles and real property

9. Life insurance policies.

10. Credit report from www.annualcreditreport.com (the free report)

11. If you are required to pay child support or alimony, than provide Marriage Agreement and court order.

12.  License of professionals, e.g. sales agent, truck driver, attorney.   

Ken Jorgensen, California Attorneywww.fresnobankruptcylawgroup.com