Why I Will Not Respond to Every Question I Receive by e-Mail

Several times a month, I receive email with detailed case questions from bankruptcy debtors who already have cases filed and who are currently represented by counsel.

I think that as a group, consumer bankruptcy lawyers are almost always willing to answer questions and we genuinely desire to help people in the community. However, if you are already represented by counsel, don’t be surprised if you don’t get a detailed answer to your question.

Speaking only for myself, I will not answer detailed questions from a represented debtor. First, if you have paid for representation, I think that your retained attorney is the appropriate source for legal advice. Second, if you want a “second opinion” you need to arrange for a paid consultation.

Please understand that as lawyers, we sell our time and expertise. You would not go into a furniture store and ask for a free couch - why then would you ask a lawyer to assume the responsibility (and liability) to answer a three paragraph question about your specific case in an email, especially if all the facts and documentation are not available to the lawyer?

Consumer bankruptcy law has become very complicated and I draw a line between a general question about bankruptcy law and procedure and fact specific questions that are more appropriate for an in-office consultation.