Unless you are familiar with the law and the local rules of Court, it will be difficult for you to make an informed decision.  That is why it is important for you to seek the advice of a knowledgeable and experienced lawyer. In my view, an ethical and knowledgeable lawyer will repeat to you the warning set out in the first paragraph of the Bankruptcy section of this web site - do not file bankruptcy unless it is an absolute last resort.

     It may seem odd to you that a bankruptcy lawyer like myself is advising you not to file bankruptcy unless you have no other choice. I tell you this because it is the truth and because it would be wrong to suggest that bankruptcy is an easy way out or something for nothing.

     The truth is that bankruptcy will negatively impact your credit for 7 to 10 years. Bankruptcy is just about the worst thing that can happen to your credit file. I encourage you to think very hard about whether to file bankruptcy, and I urge you to try any and all non-bankruptcy alternatives like Consumer Credit Counseling or negotiation with your creditors.

     Bankruptcy is a very powerful tool and should be used if and only if you have come to the conclusion that you will never be able to pay off your  creditors because the balances keep growing with interest charges and late fees, or you are facing an emergency like wage garnishment, foreclosure or repossession.

     Because I have over ten years experience meeting with clients and reviewing their financial documents, I can usually tell you within five minutes of a conversation, (1) whether you should even consider bankruptcy and (2) if so, whether Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is your best option.

     I will gladly discuss with you, at no charge, your particular debt situation via a phone call, by e-mail or in my  office.