Things Your Bankruptcy Attorney Won't Be Pleased With

If you've hired a bankruptcy attorney or are thinking about hiring one in the future, you should be aware that the world of filing Chapter 7 or Chapter 13 is a different one than you're used to. Once you've reached this point, a new set of priorities rushes to the top of the list, some of which can seem backwards from the way you've tried to live your life. Unfortunately, part of trying to clear your debts in this manner involves giving up responsibility. It is for this reason that many people struggle with the ethical underpinnings of the move. You shouldn't. If you've gotten to the point where you're debts are ruining your life, it is a legitimate way to save yourself. Still, don't be surprised when your lawyer cringes if you bring up some of the following issues.

Big Tax Refund Coming

Under normal circumstances, it's a cause for celebration to learn you're getting a good chunk of change back from the IRS. Your bankruptcy attorney, however, is unlikely to share your enthusiasm. While a lawyer can do certain things to protect your property under certain circumstances, he will not be able to protect an influx of cash. Seeing as there are few forms of income as public as a tax return, don't be surprised when this sudden windfall changes things a bit for your filing.

Advice From Debt Counselor

Hiring a bankruptcy attorney is the final step. It is akin to waving a white flag and holding your hands straight up in the air. There's nothing wrong with reaching this point. Millions of Americans have done it, having gotten in over their heads before they even realized what was happening. But you can't have it both ways. A debt counselor is working towards a somewhat different purpose than a lawyer. This doesn't even cover the fact that many debt counseling companies are scams to begin with. Leave their advice out of your sessions with a legal professional.

Asset Protection Schemes

It's only common to want to do things that will help you hold on to your assets. Unfortunately, you won't have to look hard to find people who have ideas for doing this. This is unfortunate because these people often have no idea what they're talking about. One example of bad advice would be transferring a title to a friend or family member to put it out of reach of your creditors. The law can see past these flimsy schemes. Let your bankruptcy attorney find ways to legally protect your property, or you could find yourself far less protected than you would have been if you'd done nothing.