Finding the Best Business Bankruptcy Attorney in Los Angeles
So you want the best business bankruptcy attorney in Los Angeles? Of course you do! Here’s a helpful guide with tips.
Read on now.
Introduction
It is never anyone’s intention to find themselves in a position in which they have to file bankruptcy. You start a business with thoughts of growth and success, hoping to one day turn it into something incredible. Unfortunately, things do not always go as planned. When you have exhausted all of your efforts, bankruptcy may be your only answer.
The process can be long and tedious – and it involves strangers combing through all of your finances. Some who have been through it will tell you they have encountered some judgment along the way, too, whether intentional or not. All of this is exactly why you need an attorney on your side. And, not just any attorney, but the best business bankruptcy attorney in Los Angeles.
Here are a few tips on how to find the right attorney.
Where to Find a Business Bankruptcy Attorney
If you have ever done a search for the terms bankruptcy attorney or business bankruptcy lawyer on Google, then there is a good chance you’ve been hit with a results list that seems endless. There are a lot of bankruptcy attorneys out there – though they are not all created equal.
You can narrow down your search by reaching out to local bar associations and uncovering attorneys based on their expertise. Or, even asking around to other people within your network to see if anyone knows someone they could recommend.
The business bankruptcy attorney you choose should be able to:
- Review your situation and determine whether or not bankruptcy is the best course of action.
- Discuss in detail with you how the case is going to go.
- Provide input into the tax consequences.
- Advise you on how to handle your creditors.
Look for a Specialist
Attorneys have a wide array of areas in which they can practice. Some may focus on things like corporate law, personal injury, debt defense, or other types of civil law – and they also may handle both personal and business bankruptcy, too.
While having any attorney is better than no attorney, you really need to look for a specialist. An attorney that specializes in bankruptcy law will have the most intimate knowledge about handling these types of cases. And they will know how to best handle your personal situation – based on the most favorable outcome.
Remember, the law is always changing so having someone who is on top of it can be an incredible asset.
Take a Look at Experience
When you are searching for an attorney, look for those who have experience handling cases similar to yours. Everyone would love to give the new attorney or the underdog a shot – and it may even cost you a bit less – but what is the cost to you or your business?
If you want to make sure that you have the best chance for your business to have a successful bankruptcy case, then you need to find someone with the experience to get you through it. There are so many different aspects and angles to a case and you never know what may happen in yours. Having an experienced business bankruptcy lawyer on your side ensures that you will be prepared for anything that comes your way during your case. After all, they have the experience to know what can and can’t be done as well as unconventional methods that may benefit you.
Avoid “Petition Preparers”
Believe it or not, there are people out there that prepare bankruptcy petitions for others – including businesses – without a law degree. If you have ever taken a look at the documents, you know that they are very tedious and very long. These petition preparers get the documents completed for you so you don’t have to – but that is where their involvement stops.
Because they are not attorneys, they cannot represent you in the case nor can they offer you legal advice. So, while you may be swayed by their low fee when compared with an attorney – just remember that there is a reason why they can charge so little.
Hire the One that Feels Right
You are going to have to work closely with your attorney and therefore will want to make sure it is someone you can get along with. You want to feel comfortable with your attorney, be able to easily communicate with the attorney and the office staff, and feel confident that they all will handle everything for you in the best possible way.
What you never want to do is put the future of your business in the hands of an attorney based solely on the price that they charge. Everyone wants the best deal, but there is a time and a place for a bargain – and choosing a bankruptcy attorney is not it.
Questions to Ask Your Potential Attorney
When you have narrowed down the list and have found attorneys that have experience and seem like a good fit, there are a few questions you may want to ask them as part of the vetting process. Doing so will help you narrow your list down even further – maybe even help you find the right fit for you!
Ask these questions:
- How much experience do you have handling cases such as mine?
- Are there alternatives to bankruptcy you may be able to help me consider?
- Who handles the work at your firm? What is their level of experience?
- How and how often will we communicate?
- What are your fees – and what is included in that fee?
Conclusion
You’ve ended up in this situation – the hopes and dreams for the future of your business just seem to be washed away. It is a tough spot to be in, no doubt. But, the truth is, it could be so much worse if you don’t put time and effort into choosing the right attorney.
All you have to do is look for experience and the specialty focus on bankruptcy as well as someone you feel you can work well with. Keep it in your budget, but don’t choose the cheapest attorney. And, finally, start by searching your local bar association for a qualified business bankruptcy attorney.
Are you in search for a certified attorney to represent you?
Let us help you find one today!