FAQ - Bankruptcy
Frequently Asked Questions About Bankruptcy and Debt-Related Problems
1. What is the first step?
A. The first step is easy. You can call Phillips & Thomas LLC at 913 385 9900 to set up a free consultation. We will talk about all your options. These include bankruptcy options, to include Chapter 7 bankruptcy, Chapter 13 bankruptcy, and Chapter 11 bankruptcy. This also includes non-bankruptcy options, such as settlements, consolidations, and work-outs. We handle both personal bankruptcy cases and business bankruptcy cases. We offer same-day appointments and can accommodate your schedule. Slots are available throughout the week. Every case is unique, and presents its own issues. The sooner you receive legal guidance, the sooner you can get on the road to a fresh start.
2. I have heard so many different things in the popular press, the internet, the television, and from other people. I just don’t know what to do.
A. We live in a society that can be inclined toward alarmism and fear. Most of the so called “advice” or “guidance” provided in the mainstream press and TV is misleading, or flat-out wrong. You need to speak with an attorney who practices in the area of law you are inquiring about. Bankruptcy law is complex. Every jurisdiction has its own local laws and judicial decisions. That is why something you hear on TV or the internet may not be applicable or relevant to your situation. Or, conversely, you could have benefits or favorable options that you don’t even know about. This is why it is so critical to speak to an attorney who practices extensively in the area of law you have an issue with.
3. Will I be able to get new loans after my bankruptcy?
A. Yes. Credit card companies and banks deliberately give the impression that by filing bankruptcy you’re in the “doghouse” for a certain number of years. This is not true. The purpose of this is to scare consumers so that they continue to be slaves to debt.
4. My mortgage company has told me that they would be able to work out a deal for me to allow me to keep my house. Should I believe them?
A. People need to be very careful about this. Our experience has been that mortgage companies and banks make promise after promise, but when push comes to shove, nothing happens. A typical scenario is that the homeowner is asked to provide an extensive amount of paperwork, over and over again, but the end result is that the house still gets set for foreclosure anyway. Banks have very little incentive to work with homeowners, since they know that they receive favorable treatment from the government. This is the sad truth. So, it is critical to contact an attorney as early as possible so that you are aware of all your legal rights.
5. There seem to be so many conflicting urban myths about bankruptcy. How do I know whom
to believe?
It is true that there are a great many people throwing around information who have no business doing so. The result is that people in real need of help are often frightened into directions that are not in their best interests. The best advice we can give is that people who are facing financial hardship need to visit with an attorney as early as possible so as to be fully aware of all their rights.
6. How is Phillips & Thomas LLC different from other firms?
All of our attorneys currently each have at least 10 years of experience in their respective practice areas. They have handled complex litigation over many years. In addition, our clients receive personalized, individual service on their cases:
* We do not use secretaries or paralegals to create buffers between clients and ourselves. Your case is not passed on to some inexperienced paralegal or secretary, as many firms do. At Phillips & Thomas LLC, an experienced attorney actually meets with you, consults with you, prepares your forms and documents, and provides the guidance on your case. This high level of experienced attorney involvement and service is very unusual in this area of practice. The result is a better product and a more satisfied client.
*There is an attorney, not a paralegal or administrative assistant, answering your calls, responding to you, and giving you guidance through every step of the process. Our accessability is first-rate. We return calls immediately and are always available.
7. Can my debt problems be handled in another way than bankruptcy?
A. Yes. In every potential case, we always look at alternatives to bankruptcy, such as structured work-outs, debt renegotiation, and debt settlements. If there is a feasible non-bankruptcy alternative, we will explore it in detail. Many bankruptcy firms do not handle this type of work and are not equipped to deal with it.
8. What are your prices?
There is no “one size fits all” solution to legal issues. We offer a free consultation. The reason for this is that each case is unique. At the meeting, we will quote you a price to handle your case. The fees are true flat fees, with no surprises. There is no hourly billing, teaser rates, or other surprises.
Phillips & Thomas LLC is a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under Chapter 7, Chapter 11, and Chapter 13 of the bankruptcy code. The above information should not be considered specific legal advice, and presentation of this information does not create an attorney-client
relationship.