So now that you made the decision to start fresh and file for bankruptcy, you have a second chance to straighten out your financial life.

But now you have to decide who will be the best fit to legally represent you. There are thousands of attorneys to choose from, so the selection process may be overwhelming at first but you can narrow down your options when you consider some of the following suggestions.

Before you go online to do some research, consider contacting your local bar association. Typically the bar association will provide you with a list of lawyers who specialize in bankruptcy. In some jurisdictions the bar association may charge a small fee, normally under $30, to provide this service to you. Keep in mind, that the bar association will not match you with a specific lawyer, nor will they make a recommendation. From the list you can select a few that seem like the right fit and research their backgrounds and websites online before calling them.

You can also use online websites to find lawyers. Be sure to talk to friends and family to see if anybody can make a recommendation or has heard of any of the lawyers you are considering. Often you can look at online reviews and read other people’s comments on certain lawyers or law offices.

Once you feel comfortable with your selection, go ahead and make contact. Be sure to ask the right questions, for example if the first consultation is free. Not all bankruptcy attorneys offer free consultations. Once you decide on a couple of attorneys to meet for a free consultation, prepare to explain your specific circumstances and discuss the cost of filing, counseling and fees.

It is important to talk to your attorney about cost of counseling, sometimes this service is offered online; you can then compare rates and make a decision. Understand the fee structure of your attorney and also compare rates. However, keep in mind that the attorney who offers the lowest fees is not necessarily the one for you; examine other factors such as the time frame these various attorneys promise to complete the work in. You do not want to drag this process out if your attorney is too busy to make your case a priority.

In the end it is important to trust your instincts based on your research. If the attorney fulfills all aspects on your checklist including consultation, reputation, fee and time frame you are probably in good hands.