First appointment with attorney what do I do?

[BBW]

He has an intake package I had to fill out first. What should I bring? Are there any questions I should ask? What should I be prepared for?

I've done my home work on him and he knows his stuff. He is a chapter 13 trustee who does chapter 7 cases for clients and his partner is a chapter 7 trustee who does chapter 13 cases for clients. I'm afraid he is going to charge an arm and a leg but someone who is a trustee themselves will probably get the job done better and quicker, no? I've always found it's not what you know it's who you know.

[keepmine]

Fill out the intake package. I'd bring my previous years tax return and the last 6 months of paystubs and a list of creditors. Plus, let him know when you last used your credit cards.
Question him about anything he says that you don't understand.

[BBW]

Also do you think the who he knows part is going to be worth me paying the extra money?

[Chowder]

Also do you think the who he knows part is going to be worth me paying the extra money?

That's an impossible question.

If that packet is anything like the one I had, you'll take it home, fill it in, and return it with a retainer.

[BBW]

I don't think it's an impossible question. I personally think because he is a trustee and his partner is a trustee that they will know exactly how to do this as quickly as possible. And who ever the trustee is for my case will likely know him because they are both trustees in the same courty. Whether they like eachother is a different story.

I personally think that is worth a little more money, I was just curious if others agreed.

What if I've already got the package filled out from his web site and retainer in hand, does that look weird? I've spent so long thinking about filing that I am behind and quickly trying to not waste more time.

[LimpDisc]

I don't think it matters at all that the guy is\was a Trustee. Think about it long enough and I am quite sure you might come up with some negatives to him being a trustee.

[BBW]

I don't think it matters at all that the guy is\was a Trustee. Think about it long enough and I am quite sure you might come up with some negatives to him being a trustee.

I've been thinking about it for a few days now and the only negative I can think of is if I was trying to do anything "grey" he most likely wouldn't be any part of it. But my case I think is pretty clean and I doubt there will be any questions except for my parents being my landlord and I made a preference payment.

[Chowder]

I don't think it's an impossible question. I personally think because he is a trustee and his partner is a trustee that they will know exactly how to do this as quickly as possible. And who ever the trustee is for my case will likely know him because they are both trustees in the same courty. Whether they like eachother is a different story.

I personally think that is worth a little more money, I was just curious if others agreed.

What if I've already got the package filled out from his web site and retainer in hand, does that look weird? I've spent so long thinking about filing that I am behind and quickly trying to not waste more time.

Not knowing makes it an impossible question. But it sounds like you believe it makes a difference so that should be good enough.

IMO the Attorney is supposed to "know exactly how to do this as quickly as possible". That quality should not require an extra fee. The Attorney is also supposed to be familiar with what passes muster in your BK filing.

And no. It's not weird that you show up fully prepared. At least it wouldn't be to an Attorney whose not a trustee.

[justplaintired]

You know your best answer to this is meet the attorney, if you like them and feel confident with them, then you go with them. If you don't then interview a few more. I think alot of us knew when we found the right one. Don't jump into anything, make sure you choose wisely.

[BBW]

Your right attorneys are "supposed" to know. But with all the bad ones out there (I've spoke to one on the phone) I want to have this process completely without an issue.

I do believe it makes a difference. But I welcome anyone to try to convince me otherwise.

LOL =)

[HakunaMatata]

Relationships develop in all business circles. My attorney has inadvertently referred to a few Trustees as "good", "a little tough", and "personable". Since your attorney doesn't have the option of hand-selecting the Trustee, this could potentially make a difference to some extent. Regardless, attorneys/Trustees are expected to do their jobs...properly assess our situations and proceed with the best course of action. They are following law, not the buddy system. You have to be confident in your attorney's knowledge. I wouldn't put great emphasis his/her Trustee relationships. Direct legal matters aside, I think it's also important for him/her to be able to understand your questions, communicate effectively, establish comfort, answer questions in a timely manner, etc. Well-matched personalities, a solid working relationship, and a common goal ease the process.

I interviewed three attorneys. Each consultation offered new perspective which was beneficial. I selected my attorney based off his knowledge, his experience (he works on both sides of the fence...representing creditors as well), and his communication style. The latter strongly influenced my decision as I appreciated the manner in which he engaged me and his ability to properly answer my questions and ease my fears.

Good luck with your consultation!

[BBW]

I am questioning my original logic of wanting an attorney who is a trustee. I have my appointment tomorrow and I feel like I am meeting with the trustee...

[HakunaMatata]

BBW, don't panic because you're meeting with an attorney who happens to be a Trustee. This isn't your 341. You'll be fine. Perhaps you should set up a few more consultations with other attorneys? This may take some of the pressure off this first consultation. Just remember...you're the interviewer, you're paying for services. Don't be intimidated. Take in the free knowledge and let us know how it goes! Good luck!

[Chowder]

I am questioning my original logic of wanting an attorney who is a trustee. I have my appointment tomorrow and I feel like I am meeting with the trustee...

This post -also Chapter13 trustee/Chapter 7 legal representative- should give you something to keep you awake at night.

[BBW]

I have no problem with attorneys. I work with a few. If I really don't like him I am going to find someone else. But I do feel that there is a buddy system so I still like the idea. But I am feeling like this is a 341.