Looking for a Bankruptcy Lawyer

Updated on April 01, 2009
J.D. asks from Little Ferry, NJ
5 answers

So I have spoke to 2 lawyers, both said that it would be a good idea if my husband and I file bankruptcy.(Too much debt) One lawyer wanted all the money op front, which we do not have and the other, when I asked for a payment plan, said he would get back to me. I called and spoke to his secretary...he was in court and would call me when he got back to the office. Well it has been 2 days since I called and I haven't heard from him. My question is does anyone know of a good bankruptcy lawyer in the bergen county area that does not require all the money up front and accepts a payment plan? I have been physically sick over this with sleepless nights! I also feel that this is putting a strain on our marriage as we fight about money all the time! This economy is killing us!! Hope to hear something good! Just wanted to add since some have requested that I go to work. My youngest is 4 and not old enough for kindergarten. Daycare is too expensive and for me to work and still be able to pick up the kids from school, I would not make enough. I have no help. My mother in law is home all the time but says she needs the time for herself and could maybe watch her 2 days a week for 2 hours a day. Not enough for a job. believe me I have tried every option to work or for aid for daycare and nothing worked out. I am not just a lazy person who wants to complain. I was laid off 5 years ago and then 2 months later I was pregnant with my youngest. Since then it has been hard for me to work.

What can I do next?

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B.L.

answers from New York on

Just a little known fact on Bankruptcy, since the laws on bankruptcy had changed, you might still have to pay back debts, but in a longer time period. Lawyers of course have to have upfront fees, since this is bankruptcy and they want to make sure the services they provide will be paid for. I know the fees are pretty stiff, but if it means having a peace of mind due to no collectors calling you , 10,000 notices in the mail being sent to you, then I think it is all worth it.

Have you ever watched the Suze Orman show? I think you should, and also, try to go on her website regarding so called debt management services. Some of them do charge you fees also.

And, I was just looking at the ages of your kids, maybe try getting a job yourself to help out in the finances. Your kids are pretty old now, where the teenager can help with the other two...

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J.S.

answers from New York on

Maybe you should consider looking for a fulltime job, your kids are all school-aged.

That extra money can help you pay your debts.

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C.M.

answers from New York on

I think Rebecca is right, try to do credit counceling first. If that isn't going to work for you, there is a great bankruptcy Attorney in Newark. Macey & Aleman, 888-303-0431. or you can go to www.legalhelpers.com there are a lot of great resources and tools on this site that might help you.

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R.M.

answers from New York on

J.,

Is trying a credit counselor out of the question? I work at a credit union as a loan officer and I'm also in charge of the delinquent accounts. It is in your favor to try to pay at least some of your debts off. Look for a not-for -profit credit counselor and they will contact your creditors and get them to reduce or forgive finance charges and late pmt fees. Then they will work out a plan to pay off all your bills. You will send the counselor one pmt and they will divide it up among the creditors.

Attorneys are in business to make money, not to help you. They are quick to sell a bankruptcy because it is profitable for them. With the new bankruptcy laws you may have to try credit counselling first anyway. Try it on your own instead of being ordered by a court to do it. You will have more control over what happens to your money.

Good luck, I hope this info helps you.

R.

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E.O.

answers from New York on

I don't know if NJ laws are different than NY but you don't actually need a lawyer to file for bancruptcy. I'd just google the information and I believe you can find the requirements for your state. That way you know what forms to use and only have to pay filing fees.

Good luck to you.

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