Is your financial situation currently on the rocks? Are you wondering what bankruptcy does and if it is the best option for you? If you have questions about bankruptcy and are in need of financial advice, the best person to talk to is a bankruptcy attorney. We at the Sherman Law Firm offer a free initial consultation to everyone and anyone living in the Fort Worth and Bedford, Texas area. The first thing we advise is to make sure all your meetings count, especially the first one.

Here are some tips and insights on how to make your first meeting with your bankruptcy lawyer as smooth and productive as possible.

Manage Your Expectations.

The first meeting should last about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on a variety of factors, such as the amount of information you are prepared to give, the reception of the lawyer, and your general situation. At this time usually the bankruptcy attorney generally assesses your case and will give you options on how to address your concerns. Do not expect, however, for them to have all the answers right away.

Also, remember that a good bankruptcy attorney should not immediately advise you to file for bankruptcy. The meeting might end with a recommendation for you to hold off or forego the idea altogether. After all, the goal should be to help protect your existing assets and help you get a fresh start.

Be Open About Your Current Financial Situation.

This goes without saying, honesty is vital in having a productive meeting with the bankruptcy attorney. In fact, it is important to be open about everything related to your finances when you start filing for bankruptcy. Your marital status, number of dependents, income and total household income will be discussed as well as your total assets and existing liabilities. You will also be asked if you have been served with a lawsuit, your home or business is in foreclosure, your mortgage is overdue, or your properties are on the brink of repossession.

We understand that certain information is sensitive, but they might be the key in determining if you need to file for a Chapter 7 Bankruptcy or Chapter 13 Bankruptcy.

Ready Your Important Documents.

Below are among the necessary documents you will need to show to your bankruptcy attorney:

• Financial documents (two years’ worth of tax returns and at least seven months of bank statements, paycheck stubs, and receipts of major purchases)
• Files related to all your existing loans (mortgages, car loans, medical bills, student loans) as well as the list of all your creditors and if possible information about them i.e. contact information, amount you owe, contract of your agreement
• Paperwork on foreclosure, eviction, garnishments, and repossession
• A copy of your life insurance policy, driver’s license, social security card, existing investments, and retirement statements
• A list of all your personal property that might be subject to repossession, i.e. automobile, jewelry, appliances, furniture, and electronic items
• If divorced, a copy of your marital settlement agreement

Should you not have access to these documents immediately, it is best to inform your lawyer right away. All files should also be verified in order to avoid charges of fraud.

Schedule an initial meeting and free consultation with a local bankruptcy lawyers in Fort Worth and Bedford, Texas today. Call us Today and We at Sherman Law Firm, P.C. would be more than happy to answer all your questions and concerns.