Helping Good People Get Out Of Bad Situations

How to Prepare for Your First Meeting with a Bankruptcy Attorney

On Behalf of developers | June 8, 2025 | Bankruptcy,Blog

Filing for bankruptcy is likely new to you – most people only ever file once and so it can be daunting, overwhelming, and scary to step into the process. Your first meeting with a bankruptcy lawyer is vital for gathering information to best prepare both you and your bankruptcy lawyer. The more prepared you are, the better your attorney can advise you on the best course of action. With that in mind, it’s important to prepare properly for your initial bankruptcy consultation. Pond Law Firm has been representing clients just like you in bankruptcy cases across Mississippi for the past 40+ years. We’re here to provide access to all the information we’ve gained over the years, paving the way for a smooth and informative initial consultation with your bankruptcy attorney

5 Tips for an Initial Consultation with a Bankruptcy Lawyer

1. Gather Financial Documents

The backbone of your bankruptcy case will be documents. Tax returns for 2-4 years, pay stubs for at least the last 6 months, bank statements, loan agreements, mortgage documents, credit card bills, W-2s, and other financial documents will help your bankruptcy attorney understand your case fully and better advise you on your options.

2. Outline Your Debts and Assets

It’s important that your bankruptcy attorney has a detailed listing of your debts and assets. In order to make a fully informed decision about the best way to proceed, you will need to share your credit card bills, medical bills, loans, car loans/leases, student debt, mortgages and other debts. You need to include anyone to whom you owe money, as well as amounts due on each of the above mentioned items. Similarly, make a list of everything you own of significant value. This includes real estate (with recent appraisals if available), vehicles (with make, model, year, and approximate value), bank account statements (checking, savings, retirement), investment statements, and valuable personal property like jewelry or collectibles. Understanding your debts and assets will help your bankruptcy attorney and it’s important to be completely honest. The goal of being transparent with your bankruptcy attorney is that they will be able to guide you to the best solution for your situation. Do not try to hide any assets or debts. Complete and total honesty is imperative and will ultimately protect you and serve your best interests in the end.

3. Describe Your Monthly Living Expenses

Create a detailed budget of your average monthly household expenses. This includes rent/mortgage, utilities, food, transportation, insurance, childcare, and other regular costs.

4. Prepare a List of Questions 

Next, it’s important to write a list of questions that you may have about the bankruptcy process, your attorney’s experience, what to expect, and anything else you may need to know about filing for bankruptcy. You may want to consider asking questions such as:

  • What type of bankruptcy seems to be best for my situation?
  • What are the potential consequences of filing?
  • What assets can I keep?
  • What is the cost of filing for bankruptcy, including attorney fees and court costs?
  • How long will the process take?
  • What is your experience with cases like mine?

5. Understand and Share Your Goals

Lastly, it’s important to think about what your ultimate goals for bankruptcy are. Are you hoping to discharge the debt, are you seeking to reconsolidate debt and slowly pay it back over time? Do you need to stop wage garnishments to get back on your feet? Considering what your objectives are and sharing that with your bankruptcy attorney is an important part of your Initial consultation. 

Best Bankruptcy Law Firm Jackson, MS

When you are looking for a team of experienced bankruptcy attorneys who understand Mississippi bankruptcy law and can guide you through the process, consider Pond Law Firm. We have helped thousands of clients achieve financial relief through strategic bankruptcy solutions. Our personalized approach means that you will always be provided compassionate and comprehensive legal advice. It is our objective to keep you fully informed along the way and protect your best interests throughout the entire process. Our proven track record of satisfied clients who are now experiencing financial freedom indicates that we prioritize your financial well-being and will work diligently for a favorable outcome.
Contact Pond Law Firm today for a free initial bankruptcy consultation!

Let Us Tailor A Solution To Fit Your Unique Needs

Fields marked with an * are required

Name(Required)

POND LAW FIRM

1650 Lelia Drive Suite 101

Jackson, MS 39216

Phone: 601-948-4878

Email Our Office

Jackson Law Office Map