Bankruptcy attorneys and their office staff understand how anxious most people feel the first time they meet to discuss filing bankruptcy. In order to help you be a little more at ease, here is a list of documents that you can begin collecting prior to your first meeting with the attorney. Keep in mind that different bankruptcy attorneys have different office procedures, so your attorney may give you different instructions.
Many bankruptcy attorney offices, including mine in the Northern District of New York, need the following:
1.) Your last 6 months pay stubs. If you do not have them, ask your employer for a print out, by pay period, that shows your gross pay and withholdings. If you are self-employed, you will need to be able to show each month’s gross income and your business expenses for each month.
2.) Your last 2 years income tax returns. If you haven’t filed, or are not required to file, be sure to let the attorney know.
3.) Your most recent property and school tax bills.
4.) Any foreclosure notices you may have received.
5.) Copies of the most recent statement from all your creditors. If accounts have been turned over to collection, bring the collection letters.
6.) If you are separated, bring a copy of your separation agreement, divorce decree, and support papers.
7.) Documents regarding any automobile you have, including title and purchase agreements.
Most people find that it’s helpful to organize the information in an envelope or folder. The more thorough your preparation, the better able your attorney will be able to go over all your options with you and properly represent you. In the event you are unable to procure all of these documents for your first appointment, the attorney can usually still gather enough information to adequately discuss your options.