Question on Chapter 7 and Credit Balance Transfers

[jaydee]

Hi,

I have very recently considered the option of filing for Chapter 7. I contacted an attorney my family trusts, and he seems very gung-ho about having me come in with $200, which sounds like the amount needed for filing. I guess this leads to 2 questions.

1) Is it standard for attorneys to ask for this amount up front? If not, does this mean this particular attorney wants to file right away or will they wait until you indicate the right time.

2) I had a balance transfer about a month and a half ago from one card to another when I was trying to get things under control. If I file right away does this count as a major transaction within 60 days of filing?

I am pretty new to this, hopefully I won't have to do it again. Thanks!

[HRx]

Hi,

I have very recently considered the option of filing for Chapter 7. I contacted an attorney my family trusts, and he seems very gung-ho about having me come in with $200, which sounds like the amount needed for filing. I guess this leads to 2 questions.

1) Is it standard for attorneys to ask for this amount up front? If not, does this mean this particular attorney wants to file right away or will they wait until you indicate the right time.

2) I had a balance transfer about a month and a half ago from one card to another when I was trying to get things under control. If I file right away does this count as a major transaction within 60 days of filing?

I am pretty new to this, hopefully I won't have to do it again. Thanks!

Is that $200 or $2000? Typically your first meeting with the attorney is a FREE Consultation, to explore your situation and to answer any questions you may have. Just about every attorney is going to collect payment from you prior to filing your BK petition. Most bankruptcy lawyers will charge you $1000 to "prepare" your BK petition. In addition to the $1000 most will include the $250/$350 BK filing fee that is required.

All in all the average individual shouldn't be paying for $1500 to file a BK petition through an attorney. Get clarification regarding him asking you for money up front. Mostly importantly, if you decide to meet with the attorney and don't feel as though you want to work with him then DON'T!! Just call up a few BK attorneys listed in your phone book, until you local one that you feel comfortable with.

Good Luck!