Legal Toolkit Ohio Bankruptcy, Debt and Consumer Law
What to Expect About Bankruptcy, Debt and Consumer Law
a
Bankruptcy legal fees will include attorney fees as well as credit briefing fees, court filing fees, and any other expenses incurred on behalf of the client.
b
Attorneys who agree to represent consumers with bankruptcy issues will often expect a bulk amount up front with the remainder of legal fees to be paid off through a payment plan. Fees and payment plan expectations will vary depending on whether the consumer is filing for Chapter 7 or Chapter 13.
c
Attorneys handling other legal issues for consumers may work from a retainer agreement (where they request a bulk amount from the client which is held in escrow and accessed as the attorney spends time working on the case) and/or they may bill clients on an hourly basis and/or on a fixed-fee basis for some services.
d
Attorneys charge for expenses incurred on behalf of clients. These expenses typically include copying charges, long-distance phone charges, postage, faxes, court filing fees, the cost of court reporters, expert witness fees, and other expenses associated with handling your case.
e
It is advisable to ask your attorney to put the fee arrangement in writing. This will help you and your attorney clarify what you will be charged for, when you are expected to pay your invoices, and what you should do if you have a concern about fees.
