Pro Bono Bankruptcy Attorneys
Pro bono bankruptcy attorneys are available in most major cities. They offer bankruptcy services for free. This is an excellent option for those who are literally at the end of their ropes. Pro bono attorneys can practice virtually any type of law and many state bar associations actually require attorneys to offer a specific number of pro bono cases each year. If you feel that the time has come for you to file bankruptcy but are going to find it difficult to come up with the money to pay attorney fees then pro bono bankruptcy attorneys may be just the thing that you need.
Experienced Attorneys
It is important that you find an experienced attorney for your bankruptcy case for a number of reasons. The paperwork is definitely not easy and someone with experience will be able to walk you through the entire process and help you to determine which specific bankruptcy chapter is best for your needs. You will find that many of the most experienced and reputable attorneys offer a certain number of pro bono hours each year.
Finding a Pro Bono Attorney
If you are looking for pro bono bankruptcy attorneys you can begin by checking your local law firms. Choose the ones that specialize in bankruptcies or who handle several bankruptcy cases each year. This ensures that your attorney has the experience that you need to help you through the process. You can call each firm individually or check with your local government agencies that offer assistance to those in need and see if they can recommend an attorney or specific law firm. You can also check with your local law school if you live near one to see if they have law students who may offer to take your case or if they can recommend an attorney for you.
What You May Have to Pay
Although pro bono bankruptcy attorneys will offer their services for free there are some things that you will still be required to pay. You will have to pay your filing fees which are typically around $275 or so depending on the type of bankruptcy that you are filing. You will also be responsible for the payments on the bankruptcy if you are filing a Chapter 11 or Chapter 13. These bankruptcies include a payment plan wherein you will pay back your creditors over a specified period of time, normally three to five years. Even with pro bono bankruptcy attorneys, you will still be responsible for paying your creditor payments during the bankruptcy.
Pro bono attorneys are an excellent option for those who have no other path but filing bankruptcy and simply cannot afford to retain a lawyer. Those who have lost their jobs due to layoffs, those on disability and anyone who cannot pay the typical attorney fees will benefit from pro bono attorneys. You should expect to interview a couple of different attorneys to ensure that you find one with whom you feel comfortable and the specific attorney that you feel will best represent you during your bankruptcy.