Attorneys

What to look for when selecting an ethical Bankruptcy Attorney:

Remember, when you hire an attorney you are paying for a service and you should be satisfied with the quality of that service. They should return your phone calls promptly, communicate with you personally and keep you updated on the status of your case. The attorney should also discuss the terms of your contract, including fees, up front. If you believe your attorney's performance is less than stellar, realize that you can replace them at your own discretion.

Interview them to decide which attorney you would like to handle your case. This interview takes place at an initial consultation. Don't expect your case to be solved during this visit. Consultations usually last 30 minutes so be prepared. Here are a few tips to get you ready.

  • Write down your story, in your own words before your meeting to organize all of your thoughts;

  • Make sure to bring copies of any documents that may affect your case;

  • Give your attorney any names or dates that affect your case so the attorney has an idea of who is involved;

  • Be prepared to answer all the attorney's questions; the attorney knows which questions to ask to help you;

  • Always tell the truth even if you think some details may hurt your case.

  • Don't lie or exaggerate the facts;

  • Avoid becoming too emotional;

  • Make sure you feel comfortable before leaving the attorney office. Don't be afraid to ask questions.

Questions to ask an attorney:

  1. How long have you been in business?

  2. Do I need legal representation for my problem?

  3. Have you handled cases like mine in the past?

  4. What have results been on my type of case?

  5. Will you be handling my case personally? If not, what kind of work will you be doing and who will be doing the rest of the work?

  6. How available are you for meetings and phone calls?

  7. How do you handle fees? Get a written retainer including:

    • Charges: Do you charge by the hour, a flat rate or contingency?

    • Services that are included

    • Extra fees that will be assessed

    • How you will be billed

  8. What are the possible outcomes in cases such as this?

  9. How long do you expect this matter to take?

  10. What are my alternatives?

  11. Do you recommend arbitration or mediation?

Consumer Tips from Anne-Marie Bowen, Esq. for selecting a bankruptcy attorney.

  1. Pick an attorney active in local Bar organizations. They'll be up to speed in the local/unwritten rules.

  2. Pick an attorney who does only Bankruptcy Law. Bankruptcy is a very specialized area of law. You don't want a "dabbler", as the law is too complex.

  3. Don't file a bankruptcy without an attorney. Don't use a paralegal. Bankruptcy is far to complicated for you to go it on your own.

  4. Select an attorney you feel comfortable with.

  5. Select someone you have confidence in; someone who you feel listens to you; someone who fully explains all of your options and gives you guidance.

  6. FINALLY, a "Free Consultation" is not always free. Always ask about any charges for paperwork, forms, etc

      After interviewing and running an extensive background check the National Association Against Consumer Fraud has awarded the following business a listing in The Business A-List:

Anne-Marie L. Bowen, P.A.

1516 E. Hillcrest St. Suite 103
Orlando, FL 32803
Phone (407) 228-1300

www.bowenbankruptcylaw.com

Bankruptcy is nothing to be ashamed about and may provide a "fresh start." Sickness, injury, divorce, or unemployment can cause financial disasters to any family, despite the best of intentions. Bankruptcy is often a good way to stop foreclosures, harassment by bill collectors and to erase unpayable debts.

At Anne-Marie L. Bowen, P.A., Attorney Bowen meets directly with, listens to, and tries to understand each and every client. She has over 20 years experience and has been helping people in financial distress in her own law firm since 1994.

Ms. Bowen is the 2007 President of the Central Florida Bankruptcy Law Association; Member of the American Bankruptcy Institute; and current member and past Chairman of the Bankruptcy Committee of the Orange County Bar Association.

She is also the author of the book Bankruptcy...Because Life Happens, (Conquering Debt After the Bankruptcy Law Changed), which is available through her website.

The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon advertisement.  Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.

 

 
 

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