How to Find a Good Bankruptcy Lawyer

Follow these tips to find quality bankruptcy attorneys in your area.

By , Attorney Northwestern University School of Law
Updated 9/10/2024

When seeking legal representation in bankruptcy, you’ll want to look for an experienced bankruptcy lawyer, not a general practitioner. Not only does bankruptcy require understanding how many principles interrelate, but making a mistake can be costly. Here are some suggestions for finding the best bankruptcy lawyer for your job.

Personal Referrals

Knowing someone who has had a good bankruptcy lawyer experience is often your best source. Call that lawyer first. If that approach isn't successful, you or your friends and family might have previously used an attorney in another field. If so, ask whether you could get the name of a good bankruptcy lawyer they're familiar with and would be comfortable recommending.

If you’re a member of a plan that provides free or low-cost legal assistance and the plan covers bankruptcies, make that your first stop in looking for a lawyer.

Lawyer-Referral Panels

Most county bar associations will give you the names of bankruptcy attorneys who practice in your area. Keep in mind that bar associations don’t screen the lawyers. It’s up to you to check out the credentials and experience of the person the bar association refers you to.

Online Directories

You can also find lists of bankruptcy lawyers online. A useful directory will provide information about the lawyer, such as the types of cases they handle, their philosophy on representing clients, and typical fees. One place to start is Nolo’s lawyer directory at www.nolo.com/lawyers. Also, check out www.nacba.org, a site that provides contact information for National Association of Consumer Bankruptcy Attorneys members.

Legal Aid offices offer legal assistance in many areas. A few offices handle bankruptcy cases, although most do not. The federal Legal Services Corporation partially funds Legal Aid, which is intended for low-income people, so it's more likely that a Chapter 7 bankruptcy filer will find help. Few Chapter 13 bankruptcy filers will qualify.

Learn about the differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

Many law schools sponsor legal clinics that provide free legal advice to consumers. Some clinics have the same income requirements as Legal Aid, while others offer free services to low—and moderate-income people.

Learn how to determine whether you should fire and replace your bankruptcy lawyer.

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