Bankruptcy and job search

[daniellep]

Just wondering: is it true that if you file bankruptcy, you won't be able to become a lawyer? (In the US)

A lawyer that I know (not saying he is all that great) told me that if I filed for bankruptcy, no law firm would hire me. On the other hand, I spoke to a bankruptcy lawyer who DID file before he became a lawyer.

Who is right?

[Graphic]

lol.. I'm a law major (attending law school in the fall) I have yet to find a lawyer who has said someones bankruptcy would hold them from getting a job as a lawyer. I'm sure there may be some 'high profile yuppie lawyers' that might look down on it. Hell who cares though cause they aren't always the best to work for or with.

So to answer your question no.

[robivi3]

HUH?! How many thousands of Attorney's do you think have BK'd over the years? They own businesses, make mistakes, have divorces just like "regular" people, even Law Offices go bust and they open up a new one later. So to whoever said that I would say, HUH?!

[FilingOnMyOwn]

Just wondering: is it true that if you file bankruptcy, you won't be able to become a lawyer? (In the US)

A lawyer that I know (not saying he is all that great) told me that if I filed for bankruptcy, no law firm would hire me. On the other hand, I spoke to a bankruptcy lawyer who DID file before he became a lawyer.

Who is right?

Times are changing of course, and this seems to be one of those gray areas. My roommate just graduated from law school and is taking his bar exams. He speaks as if there are very tight guidelines to become an attorney, such as extensive background checks like criminal, credit etc. I know that if you've been convicted of a crime for example, you will be barred from becoming an attorney. But then here the gray comes in again, as dui is acceptable because they view an alcohol related crime as a disease. It probably varies greatly from state to state, but you could find out the specifics for yours by calling a law school in your area.

[daniellep]

Okay, good. The person who told me this is a lawyer, himself, but honestly, he is not the brightest person out there...not to mention that he sometimes engages in very questionable professional behavior as well...