No is a word that a bankruptcy attorney will not often use, especially if they offer low rates. Should attorneys say no a little more often? Maybe. So if an attorney is inclined to decline, what reasons would they have to make this decision? Here are a few:
Cases with no real debt
If you don’t have debt then why are you looking to file bankruptcy in the first place? Bankruptcy is a complicated process and a hefty time commitment. A client may be shown other options if they do not have a lot of debt. Bankruptcy fees are regulated by the federal bankruptcy court. If someone has debt that is near the amount of those fees, what would be the point of filing? If bankruptcy is not in a client’s best option, an attorney won’t (or shouldn’t) take their case.
Too many unsuccessful bankruptcy filings
When a client has filed too many bankruptcy cases that have been dismissed for whatever reason, attorneys may not wish to represent them. If you have filed for bankruptcy before, especially if it has been multiple times, but had your case dismissed, the next try will likely end the same way. If is going to approve your case they will want to see that you are serious about completing a case from start to finish. If you have been denied in the past, it shows that you may lack that dedication. An attorney puts everything on the line and they stand behind their client 100% when they file a case. When cases get dismissed, professional reputations can take a hit. An attorney will always be more willing to help someone who wants to help themselves. It will be hard to find a quality, experienced bankruptcy attorney if you aren’t serious about doing that.
You’ve already filed bankruptcy
If your case has already been filed many attorneys will not want to represent you, this is because attorneys like to do things their way. If another attorney has handled part of the case and then you try and bring it to someone else they may not want to have to deal with interpreting or correcting another lawyer’s tendencies.
Most people who are represented by bankruptcy attorneys are honest, hardworking people who have simply fallen on hard times. Ask to set up a free consultation with a bankruptcy attorney if you are unsure whether or not you met their case criteria, that way they can consider your case. After all, it’s in your best interests.
James Brown is a personal bankruptcy attorney in St. Louis, Missouri. He has filed over 30,000 bankruptcy cases and published many books and articles. You can request his free Missouri and Illinois bankruptcy guide at http://www.castlelaw.net for the best tips on how to prepare for your bankruptcy and find a great bankruptcy attorney.
