Far too many people make the mistake of assuming that their debts will automatically be forgiven if they file for personal bankruptcy with the court. This is not the case. Thankfully, a bankruptcy attorney can help to ensure that you are ultimately able to overcome your debts by successfully utilizing the bankruptcy process. Below you can learn more about three of the ways in which an attorney can help you to accomplish this goal.

#1: Make Sure You Are Choosing The Right Type Of Bankruptcy For Your Needs

Not everyone will be able to benefit equally from each type of bankruptcy relief that is available. Furthermore, some people will be legally excluded from being able to have their debts discharged using certain types of personal bankruptcy. Consequently, it is extremely important that you choose the right type of bankruptcy for your specific situation. In most cases, this will mean choosing between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 bankruptcy. A bankruptcy attorney can help to review your financial situation and determine which option is best suited to your needs. This will ultimately improve your chances of receiving bankruptcy relief.

#2: Draft And File A Proposed Payment Plan

Many people do not realize that they may be required to repay a portion of their debt as part of the bankruptcy process before any debts can be discharged by the court. The first step in fulfilling this requirement is to draft a proposed payment plan and file this plan with the court. It is essential that you draft a plan that is likely to be approved by the court so that you can get started on your path to a financial fresh start. A bankruptcy attorney can prove very helpful during this step of the process since they are familiar with what the law requires and what the judge in your case is likely to approve. 

#3: Distribute And Record Payments To Creditors

Once the judge in your case has approved your proposed payment plan, you will need to make all payments to your creditors as required by this plan. Your bankruptcy attorney can help you with this step of the process as well by distributing funds to each of your creditors and maintaining records of these payments so that proof of payment can be supplied to the court. This is very important since you will be required to provide proof that your payment plan has been completed in accordance with court instructions before you can receive the bankruptcy relief that you are hoping for.  

For more info, contact a local bankruptcy lawyer.