Filing for bankruptcy can be the first step toward reclaiming your life from debt, but the process is often not simple. Receiving the full benefits you’re entitled to and putting yourself on a course for financial success requires in-depth expertise and a thorough understanding of the legal system. While online resources and books may make filing for debt relief seem easy, you’re always better off with the guidance of an accomplished bankruptcy lawyer.

Why You Should Hire a Bankruptcy Lawyer

1. Making Sure All Your Debts Are Included

Unfortunately, not all debts are eligible for discharge during bankruptcy, and you’ll still be responsible for any accounts you leave off the petition. Your bankruptcy lawyer will sort through your debts to make sure all eligible accounts are included.

2. Filling Out the Paperwork

Even a relatively minor mistake on your paperwork or financial disclosures can cause unnecessary delays or result in your petition being tossed out. With an experienced professional handling your documents, you can be confident everything will be submitted correctly and on time.

3. Exempting Eligible Property

In a chapter 7 bankruptcy, the trustee has the right to seize some of your property to pay back your creditors. However, the law makes a wide range of assets exempt, as long as you know how to claim them. Your bankruptcy lawyer will help you keep as many of your assets as possible, and may even be able to keep you from giving up anything.

4. Preparing a Payment Plan

Borrowers filing for a chapter 13 will have to submit a plan for catching up on missed mortgage or car payments, which has to be approved by the court. An attorney will know how to prepare a plan that will get through the process, potentially saving you a lot of time and frustration.

5. Enforcing the Automatic Stay

Filing for bankruptcy triggers an automatic stay, which should put an immediate stop to all collections activity. If your creditors violate this court order, your bankruptcy lawyer can see that it’s enforced, giving you peace and quiet from creditor harassment.

If you’re drowning in debt, the bankruptcy lawyers at Padgett & Robertson, Attorneys at Law can provide a valuable lifeline. For over 35 years, they’ve been helping people throughout southern Alabama get a second chance at life by providing reliable legal advice and individualized service to every client. Visit their website or call (251) 342-0264 now to request a consultation, and follow their Facebook for more legal news and updates.