The first online resource every potential bankruptcy candidate should utilize is Google Maps. By using such search terms as "affordable bankruptcy lawyers" or "cheap bankruptcy attorney" and adding your local city, state and zip, the website will return many of the options in your area. Because businesses have to register with Google maps in order to be featured in such searches, only those lawyers with the internet savvy and marketing know-how are likely to appear. This bodes well for them, as it makes a statement about an office's understanding of modern technology. Click on any of the markers that appear on the map and a physical address, phone number and website address will appear. A similar search can be done through Yahoo local listings.
Another popular option is the Martindale-Hubbell legal network, located at martindale.com. This is the online version of the well-known attorney directory, which allows users to make use of a "lawyer locator." When using this search, do not fill in the line that asks for the name of a lawyer or law firm. Fill in the box for your city and select the state, this way you will be able to access all of the names in your area. If it is not already filled in, change the country to "United States," and be sure to select "bankruptcy" under areas of practice. Click "go" and the list you need should readily appear. If you find there are not enough options in your immediate area, return to the page with the search options and check out the directories for neighboring towns or cities.
There is one more excellent online source you can use for your search: lawyers.findlaw.com, the website of Thomson Reuters' Find Law directory. This, the online version of the West Legal Directory, offers a "search for a lawyer" function. Fill in the "legal issue" box with "bankruptcy," and supply the site with your city in the location box. Add your state and zip code to make the search as accurate as possible. Ask the search to "Find lawyers" by clicking on the appropriate tab or pressing enter. A list of local lawyers should appear. Once again, if the list seems a bit on the light side, try searching neighboring cities or simply by zip code. This search informs you which attorneys offer free consultation; do not be afraid to take up as many of these offers as you have time for.
Because filing for bankruptcy is a stressful task in itself, do not bog yourself down further with a lawyer that does not make you feel comfortable. Do as much homework as you can surrounding the attorneys in your area, and choose one that is right for both you and your budget.
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