If there's anything worse than filing for bankruptcy, it's having to do so and then hiring the wrong attorney for the job. For many lawyers, bankruptcy filings have become a volume business, and debtors facing bankruptcy sometimes unfortunately obtain inferior legal services. For this reason, you'll need to do some research before hiring a bankruptcy lawyer.

1.       Ask lots of questions. Once you have some candidates in mind, ask them the following questions (The answers to each of these questions are critical, so if you get evasive answers, it's probably a red flag that this is not the firm for you):

§         What certifications do you have? Walter Metzen is one of only 6 Board Certified Bankruptcy Specialists in the Detroit Area who exclusively represents Consumers filing Bankruptcy.

§         How many bankruptcies have you handled? Mr. Metzen has personally handled over 10,000 Bankruptcy cases in the past 15 years.

§         How much access will I have to you during my filing? Mr. Metzen is available by phone, email and personal office consultations and will always take your call if he is not in court.

§         How will the procedure work?

2.      Don't procrastinate. The idea of hiring a bankruptcy attorney has all the allure of having teeth pulled. But don't let this prevent you from beginning your investigation for a good lawyer as soon as you know you're going to need one. Waiting until the last moment won't give a good attorney enough time to adequately prepare your case. Mr. Metzen has same day and walk-in appointments.  The Office is located one-block from the Bankruptcy Court for fastest service.

3.       Don't hire the cheapest lawyer. Obviously, in this circumstance you don't have a lot of cash to spare. But like most things in life, you get what you pay for. You want a lawyer who knows the system, and who will do the best job of representing you. That may end up costing a little more. Your local bar association can probably help you determine whether a proposed fee is fair and in line with local standards. Anybody who charges too much or too little probably shouldn't be your lawyer of choice.  Mr. Metzen has payment plans to fit any budget.

4.      Seek the advice of other legal professionals. Ask yourself which business acquaintances you know, who might in turn know a good bankruptcy lawyer. If you have a personal attorney, that's a good place to start. Understand, however, that bankruptcy law is a specialty. If your lawyer offers to handle the case as part of your usual retainer, be certain he knows his way around bankruptcy court.  Many Lawyers in Michigan refer cases to Mr. Metzen because of his reputation and expertise.

5.       Spend a day at bankruptcy court. Observing bankruptcy attorneys in action might give you an idea of the type of lawyer you want representing you. You will probably see Mr. Metzen as he is in Bankruptcy Court nearly every week.

6.      Find out if the Attorney is a Board Certified Specialist by the American Board of Bankruptcy Certification. The only lawyers you'll find on this exclusive list will be well-respected attorneys who regularly appear in bankruptcy court and are Certified Specialists in Consumer Bankruptcy Law.  Mr. Metzen has attained this exclusive Board Certification Specialty in Consumer Bankruptcy (see www.abcworld.org )

7.      Visit law offices. An office appraisal can give you vital clues as to how a lawyer would handle your case. Look around the office and see how well organized it is. Is it neat, or are there coffee-stained folders strewn about the floor? You wouldn't go to a doctor with a dirty examining room; don't hire a lawyer with a disorganized office. You are always welcomed to come to my office for a Free Consultation. Call 313-962-4656 or 888-777-FILE.

8.      Evaluate the responses thoroughly. For most law firms, Bankruptcy is a volume business, which means the time you'll actually spend with a specific attorney might be minimal compared to what you spend with a clerk or a paralegal. This is yet another reason to conduct a thorough interview process, and to carefully evaluate the responses. Do both the attorney and the firm have the expertise you need? Do they appear overworked already? Mr. Metzen intentionally limits his caseload to provide the personal attention each case deserves and you meet directly with the lawyer, not a paralegal or legal assistant.

9.      Get fee specifics. Find out exactly what's included in your lawyer's fees and what isn't. Mr. Metzen always discusses all fees up front with clients and provides a written fee agreement (retainer agreement).

10.     Stay involved. Once you hire a lawyer, don't be content to let him or her handle it alone. Double-check all filings. Did any of your creditors get dropped off the list? Staying on top of your bankruptcy filing will help ensure that the proceedings go smoothly and will keep your lawyer on his or her toes.