If you are considering filing for bankruptcy, you may wonder whether you have to hire an attorney. The short answer is no, you do not have to hire an attorney in order to file; however, if you want to know whether you should, the answer is a resounding yes. Below, Ray T. Kennington, Attorney At Law shares three reasons why you should hire a bankruptcy attorney to help you secure a clean financial slate.

1. To Explore All of Your Options

There are several options for individuals and businesses when it comes to declaring bankruptcy, and each has its advantages and drawbacks. A seasoned attorney will help you assess all of your choices so you can determine the best approach for your particular situation.

For example, if you want to file personal bankruptcy and you have little to no income, you may be eligible for chapter 7, which is essentially a liquidation of your nonexempt assets. If you do not qualify for chapter 7, your bankruptcy attorney can help you explore chapter 13, which is a reorganization of certain debts.

2. To Protect Yourself From Lenders

Creditors can get fairly aggressive, even with an automatic stay in place, and their bullying tactics intimidate even the strongest individuals. If lenders know you have hired an attorney, though, they’ll be less inclined to continue harassing you for payments. All you have to do is refer any creditors to your lawyer the next time they call.

3. To Finalize the Proceedings as Quickly as Possible

Your attorney will help you complete all of the bankruptcy paperwork accurately and file it with the appropriate parties to prevent any unnecessary delays. This will ensure the proceedings are completed quickly, so you can regain your financial footing and start rebuilding your credit as soon as possible.

If you are considering filing for bankruptcy and you want to explore your options, turn to Ray T. Kennington, Attorney At Law in Ozark, AL. To learn more about his experience in bankruptcy law, visit his website, and call (334) 445-1200 to discuss your financial situation with a bankruptcy attorney.