How to Choose a Bankruptcy Attorney in Arcadia, CA

To choose a bankruptcy attorney in Arcadia, check three things: that they are licensed by the State Bar of California and in good standing, that they regularly file Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases in the Central District of California, and that they quote you a flat fee in writing before you sign anything. Most consumer bankruptcy attorneys offer a free first consultation, so there is no cost to compare two or three.

Why local filing experience matters

Bankruptcy is federal law, but it is administered district by district. Arcadia residents file in the Central District of California, and local trustees have their own document requirements and scheduling habits. An attorney who appears in that district every week knows what a specific trustee will ask for at the 341 meeting of creditors. An attorney who does not will learn it at your expense.

Questions worth asking on the first call

• How many Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 cases did you file last year?
• Is your fee flat or hourly, and what does it cover if my case is challenged?
• Will you personally appear at my 341 meeting, or will someone else?
• Based on my income, do I pass the California means test for Chapter 7?
• Which of my assets are protected under California exemptions?

Check the California State Bar first

Before you hire anyone, search their name on the State Bar of California website. It is free and it shows admission date, current status and any public discipline. Be cautious of any non-attorney “bankruptcy petition preparer” who offers to handle your case — they cannot give legal advice, cannot represent you in court, and cannot tell you which chapter to file.

What it costs

In California, the court filing fee is set federally and is the same regardless of who represents you. Attorney fees vary. Chapter 7 is typically a flat fee paid before filing; Chapter 13 fees are usually partly paid through the repayment plan. Ask for the total in writing, including the credit counseling course and the credit report pull, so you are comparing like with like.

Speak to the Arcadia office

Hedtke Law Group has an office in Arcadia serving Pasadena, Monterey Park, Rosemead, Temple City, Duarte, Irwindale, Azusa, Alhambra and San Marino.

Hedtke Law Group — Arcadia
255 E Santa Clara St, Suite 210, Arcadia, CA 91006
Phone: (626) 593-1558
Website: bankruptcyattorneyarcadia.com

If you are in the Inland Empire rather than the San Gabriel Valley, our Fontana bankruptcy attorney office serves Fontana, Rialto, Colton, Bloomington and Jurupa Valley.