Top San Diego, CA Chapter 11 Bankruptcy Lawyers Near You

Are You Thinking About Filing Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?

It is important that prior to filing for bankruptcy you consult with a skilled chapter 11 bankruptcy attorney who can help decide what type of bankruptcy is right for you. Furthermore, a San Diego bankruptcy attorney can walk you through the process of filing chapter 11 bankruptcy.

What Happens During a Chapter 11 Bankruptcy?

During a chapter 11 bankruptcy, otherwise known as a “reorganization” bankruptcy, a debtor remains in control of its operations and is subject to the oversight and jurisdiction of the court. Chapter 11 allows the debtor to acquire new financing on favorable terms by giving new lenders first priority. Chapter 11 bankruptcy also allows debtors to be protected from litigation by putting it on hold. For more information on what happens during a chapter 11 bankruptcy and how bankruptcy can help you, contact a chapter 11 bankruptcy attorney today.

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.

How to Prepare for Your Initial Consultation

Prepare for your consultation by writing down notes of your understanding of the case, jot down questions and concerns for the attorney, and gather your documents. Remember that you are trying to get a sense of whether the attorney has your trust and can help you address your legal issues. Questions should include how the attorney intends to resolve your issue, how many years he/she has been practicing law and specifically practicing in your area, as well as how many cases similar to yours the attorney has handled. It can also be helpful to broach the subject of fees so that you understand the likely cost and structure of your representation by a specific attorney and/or legal team.

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

Pro se – This Latin term refers to representing yourself in court instead of hiring professional legal counsel. Pro se representation can occur in either criminal or civil cases.

Statute – Refers to a law created by a legislative body. For example, the laws enacted by Congress are statutes.

Subject matter jurisdiction – Requirement that a particular court have authority to hear the claim based on the specific type of issue brought to the court. For example, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court only has subject matter jurisdiction over bankruptcy filings, therefore it does not have the authority to render binding judgment over other types of cases, such as divorce.