More people than ever are struggling with debt in today’s economy. If your bills are piling up, and you feel like you’re paddling furiously with no end in sight, it may be time to consider filing for bankruptcy in Hawaii.
A Hawaii attorney can help you file the appropriate paperwork in order to get out from under your debts, but not every attorney has the experience and specialization needed to give you help with debt. In Hawaii, you need to do your homework in order to find the right lawyer for your situation.
Take The Time To Interview At Least Three Lawyers
Randomly choosing a Honolulu lawyer out of the phone book or of an Internet directory isn’t a good idea. Keep in mind that this person will be working closely with you and handling your financial situation; you need to have a rapport with your attorney and confidence with him or her.
Ask for an interview with at least three attorneys, and take the time to ask them some crucial questions. In most cases, a Honolulu bankruptcy lawyer will offer you a free, initial consultation so that you can discuss your case and how he will handle it.
Questions To Ask A Honolulu Lawyer
Having a few questions prepared is a great way to start the interview process so that you can easily compare the responses you get from each attorney. A few important questions to ask about bankruptcy in Hawaii include:
- How long have you been a Honolulu lawyer?
- How long have you been an attorney in general?
- How many personal bankruptcies have you handled?
- How often will we need to meet to discuss my situation?
- How will you stay in touch with me? (Will he email you updates, call you, or have an assistant keep in contact with you?)
- How often are you unavailable/out of the office?
During the initial consultation, you should also ask them what kind of help with debt in Hawaii they offer. In general, personal bankruptcy in Hawaii falls into two categories – either Chapter 13 or Chapter 7.
Be sure you know what kind your Honolulu lawyer recommends. In some cases, help with debt in Hawaii can also fall into the category of consolidation rather than bankruptcy. Ask every Honolulu lawyer you interview which plan is best for your situation.
Additional Considerations
Being comfortable with your Honolulu lawyer is crucial. The emotional toll of getting help with debt in Hawaii can be considerable. Your attorney will know every detail of your finances, including how you’ve spent every dime.
If you have the wrong attorney handling your bankruptcy in Hawaii, you could end up feeling defensive or insulted. Being at ease with your attorney can make a painful process less upsetting.
Your initial reaction is usually a good indication of how your relationship with an attorney will proceed, so pay attention to your intuition. If an attorney rushes through your consultation or is condescending, move on to a Honolulu lawyer who will treat you with dignity and respect.
Filing for bankruptcy in Hawaii doesn’t have to be a miserable experience. Instead of spending years trying to get ahead of your debts, consider getting help with debt in Hawaii from an experienced, Honolulu lawyer. Debt Free Hawaii can give you help with debt in Hawaii that will soon have you feeling good about your decision as you move forward to a more stable financial future.
For help or advice on your Hawaii Bankruptcy needs, call Debt Free Hawaii today! (808) 518-4844 | Time could be critical in your case!
Blake Goodman received his law degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. in 1989 and has been exclusively practicing bankruptcy-related law in Texas, New Mexico, and Hawaii ever since. In the past, Attorney Goodman also worked as a Certified Public Accountant, receiving his license form the State of Maryland in 1988.
Loading...