Top Opelika, AL Bankruptcy Lawyers Near You
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Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, P.C.
Bankruptcy Lawyers | Opelika Office
View ProfileWhen you need Bankruptcy help in Opelika, contact Marrell J. McNeal, Attorney at Law, P.C., an established Alabama law firm.
Free Consultation
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Capell & Howard P.C.
Bankruptcy Lawyers | Opelika Office
Opelika Bankruptcy Information
Lead Counsel Verified Attorneys In Opelika
Lead Counsel independently verifies Bankruptcy attorneys in Opelika by conferring with Alabama bar associations and conducting annual reviews to confirm that an attorney practices in their advertised practice areas and possesses a valid bar license for the appropriate jurisdictions.
Are You Considering Bankruptcy?
If you’re overwhelmed with debt and are looking for legal solutions to solve your financial crisis then bankruptcy may be a great option for you. A skilled Opelika bankruptcy lawyer can help determine whether bankruptcy can help eliminate your debt, and get you back on your feet.
Different Types of Bankruptcy Available
Did you know there are various types of bankruptcy that each serve a different purpose and require a different skillset? A Chapter 7 Bankruptcy is one type a bankruptcy attorney may decide is the best way for you to liquidate your assets to pay off creditors. This is especially true if you currently have no income.
On the other hand, a Bankruptcy law firm may select a Chapter 13 Bankruptcy as a way for you to keep control of your belongings while paying back your creditors over time.
What is bankruptcy?
Bankruptcy is a legal process that allows people to get out from under debts that are causing serious financial harm. Through the bankruptcy process, you may be able to get rid of debts like medical bills, credit card bills, and other unsecured debts. Factors such as your income and whether you have assets that you can sell to pay off some of the debts are taken into account when filing for bankruptcy and will determine what happens.What happens when I file for bankruptcy?
When you file for bankruptcy, you will be under a federal bankruptcy court’s supervision and protection. During this time, you, your lawyer, the court, and your creditors will work on a plan for discharging your eligible debts. Collectors will also be unable to repossess property and garnish your wages or bank accounts during this time.How much does it cost to file for bankruptcy?
There is no easy answer to this question. The ultimate cost will be a mix of court filing fees and what you owe your attorney for guiding you through the process. What you owe will depend on how complicated your case is and whether there are any prolonged disputes with creditors. Most likely, however, the debt relief that comes with bankruptcy will outweigh any fees.How long does bankruptcy stay on your credit report?
A Chapter 7 bankruptcy filing will stay on your credit report for up to 10 years, while a Chapter 13 will remain for up to seven years. A bankruptcy filing will also harm your credit score. However, if you need to file for bankruptcy, it’s likely your score is not that high anyway, and your bankruptcy will give you a chance at a fresh start and time to rebuild your credit score.Top Questions to Ask When Hiring an Attorney
- How many years have you been practicing law? How long have you practiced law in the local area?
- How many cases similar to mine have you handled in the past?
- What is the likely outcome for my case?
In legal practice, experience matters. An experienced attorney will likely have handled issues similar to yours many, many times. Therefore, after listening to your situation, the attorney should have a reasonable idea of the time line for a case like yours and the likely resolution.
The Importance of a Good Consultation
The goal of an initial consultation is to find an attorney you are comfortable working with and someone who can help you understand your options under the law. Seek to understand the relevant legal experience the attorney brings to your case. While it is not realistic to expect an attorney to resolve your legal issue during an initial consultation, you should gain a level of comfort with his/her ability to do so. A good consultation can clarify issues, raise pertinent questions and considerations for your case, and help you make an informed decision towards resolving your legal issue.
How much does it cost to hire an attorney?
In general, how much an attorney costs will often depend on these four factors: billing method and pricing structure, type of legal work performed, law firm prestige, and attorney experience. Depending on the legal issue you are facing, an attorney may bill you by the hour, settle on a flat fee, or enter into a contingency fee agreement. The type of legal work you need help with will also play a role in cost incurred.
Common legal terms explained
Personal jurisdiction – Requirement that a particular court have authority over a person, in order to bind that person to the judgment of the court, based on minimum contacts. International Shoe Co v. Washington is a landmark Supreme Court case outlining the scope of a state court’s reach in personal jurisdiction.