Reasonable timeline?

[eventsdj]

Hi, new here again...

Since we've decided to file, we have set up an attorney meeting for next Tuesday. She is sending the paperwork to get started, and list of things we need to gather before then.
What will that initial meeting be like, and if we have said paperwork together, would we be able to pay and file right away?

Question is.. ALL our bills come due the end of Sept., including our huge $600 personal loan bill.
It would be wonderful to NOT have to pay them this month, since hubbys pay structure changed, and he will not receive a commision check until November...

Thanks again!

[2manybills]

If you are going to file, your attorney will advise you to stop paying your loans, credit cards, etc., except for the secured debt that you would like to keep, i.e., mortgage, cars, etc.

[liz417]

Wait to stop payments AFTER you speak to your attorney. Usually they'll let you know when the best time to file your case. I would also recommend that you consult at least 3-4 more local BK attorneys before retaining this one.

P.S. I stopped paying my creditors 1 year before I filed.

[backtoschool]

The initial meeting with the lawyer will go very fast (time is money to lawyers). They will look at your paystubs for the last six months and your debt and try to ball park if you are a chapter 7 or 13. They will probably give you a general speech about bankruptcy and what to expect. They will NOT fill out any of your schedules until you hire them and pay them. They also will ask you about transfers of property, payment of money to family members, etc.

If you are at or above the median it is a good idea to talk to several attorneys just to make sure you hire one that really understands what the trustees in your district will allow for expenses, etc.