Any lawyers know the best way to start a solo bankruptcy practice?
Louis B asked:
Are there any lawyers out there who practice bankruptcy who could tell me how difficult it would be to start a solo bankruptcy practice and how I might go about doing this. First, is this the kind of think that I could figure out with form books and software or should I work in a firm first? Also, could I mainly do Chapter 7’s or do I really need to do all kinds to stay afloat? Any helpful info by experienced bankruptcy lawyers would be greatly appreciated! I’m licensed in Mississippi if that helps.
LA Real Estate
Are there any lawyers out there who practice bankruptcy who could tell me how difficult it would be to start a solo bankruptcy practice and how I might go about doing this. First, is this the kind of think that I could figure out with form books and software or should I work in a firm first? Also, could I mainly do Chapter 7’s or do I really need to do all kinds to stay afloat? Any helpful info by experienced bankruptcy lawyers would be greatly appreciated! I’m licensed in Mississippi if that helps.
LA Real Estate
Related Legal Advice Topics
Comments (2)
There is a lot that law school doesn’t teach about the practice of law. I would get a job with a firm for a few years if possible. It will give you basic knowledge, and can give you time to build a good reputation, the most important asset you have.
There is a decent book about building a solo practice. I will look for the author’s name and try to post it in an edit.
I was with a large firm from 75 to 96 and have been a sole practitioner since 96, but not in bankruptcy.
edit:
“How to Start and Build a Law Practice, 4th ed., by Jay G. Foonberg, Chicago, IL: American Bar Association, Law Student Division, Section of Law Practice Management, 1999.
This book is organized into ten parts: getting started; getting located; getting equipped; getting clients; setting fees; managing the law office; ethics and professional responsibility; resources and advice; a management checklist; and a section on quality of life. Using a “nuts and bolts” approach, the author devotes short sections within each chapter to considerations ranging from postage to insurance to Christmas cards. “
I got into a lot of financial trouble in the past. I really wish I contacted a lawyer before I filed for bankruptcy. Now it will take me 10 years to rebuild my credit. I live in Indiana so I can’t recommend anyone in Mississippi, but I’d suggest calling a professional.