meeting with a personal bankruptcy lawyer for an initial consultation, it is important to come prepared with relevant information and documents. This will help the lawyer assess your financial situation and provide appropriate advice. Here is a list of information and documents you may need to provide
Personal Information
You will need to provide your full name, contact information, social security number, and any other identification details required by the lawyer.
Income Details
Prepare a comprehensive list of your sources of income, including employment wages, self-employment income, rental income, pension, social security benefits, and any other sources of income. Bring recent pay stubs, tax returns, and any other supporting documents related to your income.
Debts and Expenses
Make a list of all your debts, including credit cards, loans, medical bills, and any other outstanding obligations. Include the creditor’s name, account number, outstanding balance, and monthly payment amount. Additionally, provide information about your regular monthly expenses, such as rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, transportation costs, and insurance payments.
Assets and Property
Compile a list of your assets, including real estate, vehicles, bank accounts, investments, retirement accounts, and any valuable personal property. Provide supporting documents such as property deeds, vehicle titles, bank statements, and investment account statements.
Financial Transactions
Gather information about any recent financial transactions, such as transfers of property, large purchases, or payments made to creditors. This will help the lawyer assess your financial activities leading up to the bankruptcy filing.
Tax Returns
Bring copies of your federal and state tax returns for the past few years. These documents will help the lawyer understand your tax obligations and any potential tax issues related to your bankruptcy.
Legal Documents
If you have been involved in any legal proceedings, lawsuits, or judgments, provide copies of relevant court documents. This includes divorce decrees, child support orders, foreclosure notices, or any other legal documents related to your financial situation.
Budget and Financial Statements
Prepare a detailed budget that outlines your monthly income and expenses. This will help the lawyer evaluate your financial situation and determine the best course of action. Additionally, provide any financial statements or reports that you may have, such as balance sheets or profit and loss statements if you are self-employed.
To prepare for the initial consultation, organize all the necessary documents and information in a folder or file. Make copies of all the documents, so you have a set for yourself and one to provide to the lawyer. It is also helpful to write down any specific questions or concerns you have regarding your bankruptcy case.