Receiving phone calls from collectors looking for money can be extremely stressful, especially if you can’t pay them. A debt collection attorney can help protect you from creditors that may be overzealous about collecting your money. Additionally, these lawyers can help you file paperwork or represent you in the courtroom.
Do You Need a Debt Collection Attorney?
If you are having problems managing your debt, here are some signs that you might need a debt collection attorney.
- You are not being treated fairly by collectors
- You have received a lawsuit from a creditor, or the threat of one
- You are unable to pay back your debts
- Creditors are constantly calling you at home or work
Additionally, you may want to consider a debt collection attorney if you would like to receive help with reducing or eliminating loans to avoid collectors. Be sure to ask your attorney if they represent debtors, however. You want to make sure they are familiar with helping people in debt, and not just creditors.
What Does a Debt Collection Attorney Cost?
Attorneys all use different billing methods, so you will have to ask your attorney specifically. Many attorneys will charge an hourly rate but should be able to give you a realistic quote as to how much your case will cost. You will want to discuss this upfront so you can come to an agreement that you are both comfortable with. Fees may vary based on whether or not you will claim bankruptcy, and which type of bankruptcy case you will file. Additionally, more complex cases may cost more.
What Can I Expect While Working With an Attorney?
As a debtor, an attorney can help you put a plan in place to pay back the money that you owe collectors. If your attorney can negotiate the debt down, you may end up paying less. If you settle in court, the payment plan will be determined by the judge. If you settle outside of court, the terms will be negotiated between yourself and the collectors.
Either way, the case will be resolved and you shouldn’t receive calls about your debts after that. If you have any questions about how a debt collections attorney can help you, contact a bankruptcy lawyer in Waterbury, CT today. This can help prevent creditors from taking advantage of you and will make it so that you don’t have to face them on your own.
Thanks to The Law Offices of Ronald I. Chorches for their insight into bankruptcy law and debt collection.