This article is the first in a series providing information regarding filing Chapter 7 Bankruptcy.

When looking for a bankruptcy attorney, there are numerous issues to consider before calling to make an appointment. Attorney Laura Colt at LaRowe Gerlach Taggart LLP provides some advice regarding choosing the best attorney for you, and advises you to consider the following points before making that call:

• Proximity to you.

You will need to meet with the bankruptcy attorney and drop paperwork off to his/her office multiple times during the preparation phase of bankruptcy. Consider going to an attorney within a 35 mile radius of you, as it will be more convenient and cost-effective.

• Price considerations.

The least expensive bankruptcy attorneys are located next to the federal courthouses in Madison and Milwaukee, so people tend to believe hiring them will save money. However, you will end up paying more in travel costs, lost income, and childcare costs in order to meet with those bankruptcy attorneys multiple times.

• Services offered.

When you meet with a bankruptcy attorney, ask exactly what that attorney fee is going to cover. Most fees cover the preparation and filing of the petition and attached schedules and also attending the meeting of creditors. You also want an attorney who can guide you to a good credit counseling course provider, which is required under the statutes.

• Post-bankruptcy analysis.

When you meet with your bankruptcy attorney, ask questions about what happens after you receive the discharge. He or she should be giving you advice so you do not end up in bankruptcy again. For example, you should not file if you don’t have health insurance and are still experiencing medical issues. Wait to file until those issues are resolved or you will end up acquiring more debt that you cannot discharge for eight years, which makes the bankruptcy benefit moot.

Also, talk about how long the bankruptcy will affect your credit report and credit score. Is there a goal that you want to work towards such as buying a house and does the bankruptcy attorney have any advice on how to speed up that process? A good attorney will give you counsel on how to recover after the discharge.

Once you have had a chance to consider your options, keep in mind Attorney Colt is an experienced local bankruptcy attorney known for her personal attention to her clients. She will walk you through the process with your best interests in mind, making sure you understand your options from beginning to end. Call LaRowe Gerlach Taggart LLP at 608-524-8231 for more information or to schedule an appointment, or visit us on Facebook.