I normally don’t make posts like this, but after what I have experienced, I feel the need to share my story so someone else doesn’t end up in the same situation.
Four years ago, I hired and paid an attorney $3,500 to handle my bankruptcy case. At the time, I had less than $4,000 in actual debt. The MAIN reason I filed for bankruptcy was because I had been sued, and I was trying to protect myself from the financial consequences of that lawsuit.
I specifically discussed the lawsuit with my attorney and was assured it was included in my bankruptcy filing.
Fast-forward FOUR YEARS, and I discover that I STILL HAVE A LIEN against me stemming from the very same lawsuit that led me to file bankruptcy in the first place!
When I initially contacted my attorney about this, I was told the lien had no validity because it had been filed around the same time my bankruptcy was pending. I trusted that explanation because, after all, isn’t that why we hire and pay professionals?
Well, today I found out the lien is STILL THERE, and the issue has not been resolved!
Naturally, I called my attorney looking for answers and assistance. Instead of allowing me to explain the situation or ask questions, she became defensive, told me she filed my bankruptcy, that the case was closed, and then HUNG UP ON ME!
I have since been advised that additional action through the bankruptcy court may be necessary to address this lien. When I asked for help, I was referred to ANOTHER attorney, whom I would now have to pay out of my own pocket to try to resolve the situation.
So let me get this straight…
I paid $3,500 for legal representation, filed bankruptcy primarily because of ONE lawsuit, trusted that my attorney had properly addressed it, and four years later, I am STILL dealing with the exact issue I was trying to resolve?
And now I’m expected to pay another attorney to figure out what went wrong?
HOW IS THE CLIENT SUPPOSED TO KNOW WHAT LEGAL PROCEDURES NEED TO BE FILED? ISN’T THAT THE WHOLE PURPOSE OF HIRING AN ATTORNEY?
I understand that not every legal situation is straightforward, but what I cannot understand is the lack of communication, professionalism, accountability, and willingness to even discuss a former client’s concerns.
I wasn’t asking for a favor. I was asking for answers about a service I PAID FOR!
I am beyond frustrated and disappointed. Filing bankruptcy is not a decision anyone takes lightly. It affects your financial future, your credit, and your peace of mind. To go through that entire process only to discover years later that the very reason you filed may still be unresolved is devastating.
PLEASE, DO YOUR RESEARCH BEFORE HIRING AN ATTORNEY. Ask questions, request copies of EVERYTHING filed with the courts, and never assume something has been handled simply because you were told it was.
$3,500 later, a bankruptcy on my record, and I am still left dealing with the same lien.
I wouldn’t wish this experience on anyone! - Keenj Reply