What are the Different Types of Bankruptcy Lawyers in Birmingham, Alabama

What are the Different Types of Bankruptcy Lawyers in Birmingham, Alabama

While not an exact science, you can generally divide Birmingham, Alabama bankruptcy lawyers (who represent consumers) into three groups.

The first group files a large number of cases for the lowest fee.

The second group charges a mid level fee and files less than the first group but more than the higher end firm.

The third group charges the highest fee and normally files the fewest cases.

So, what type of client does each group typically represent?

The first group tends to represent folks who either do not have much in the way of debt or those who are most concerned about the fee (the price).  This is the client that says “All bankruptcy attorneys are the same — the only difference is the fee they charge.  I’m going to go with the cheapest attorney.”  This client also tends to say “All I need is my bankruptcy papers filled out and a lawyer to stand in court for me.  Any lawyer with a pulse will do.”  The first words spoken when this type of client calls a bankruptcy lawyer is “What is your fee” and if it is higher than the last firm called, the client hangs up.

The second group is for consumers who are concerned about the fee, but want a little more personal attention and they are willing to pay for it.  They either don’t want or don’t even think about the issue of “What type of service will I receive?  Will the process be explained to me in detail?  Will the lawyer help  me after the bankruptcy to make sure my credit reports are correct and that I’m not being harassed by discharged creditors and collectors?”

The final group is for consumers who don’t view their bankruptcy as a “commodity” and they want individualized attention and more than simply having a bankruptcy form filled out.  They want everything explained in easy to understand language — not legal jargon.  They want a plan laid out for them on how things will look on the “other side of bankruptcy” and what to expect if creditors or collectors continue to falsely credit report or collect on discharged debt.

Which type of lawyer is best for you?

There is no one right answer.

You need to ask yourself:

• What is it I want from my lawyer?
• Do I value low service and low price or am I willing to pay more for more services?
• Do I want the most efficient “assembly line” type of process or do I want a more individualized representation and guidance through the bankruptcy process?

When you know the answers to these types of questions, then you’ll be in a position to know what you are looking for and then you can start talking to the firms that fit what is best for you.

We make no judgment on which is the best type of firm — each “model” has its advantages and disadvantages.  Decide what is best for you and if you want to talk with us, you can call us at 205-879-2447.

Oh, and we are the third group by the way — we never compete on price.  If the first question is “How much do you charge” then we are not going to be the firm for you.  Instead of being price driven, we take a very individualized approach to see what is best for you before, during, and after the bankruptcy.

Whoever you choose to talk with, ask questions and make sure you are comfortable with what you are paying for.  Best wishes!

John Watts

Stan Herring