7 Best Questions To Ask Before Hiring A Foreclosure Defense Attorney

No homeowner expects to be in a situation where they’re facing foreclosure. But if it happens, you want to know you’re in good hands.

Navigating foreclosure proceedings is not an easy feat. Reaching out to a foreclosure defense attorney signifies you’re worried about losing your home.

But what questions should you ask? What makes the perfect foreclosure defense attorney?

We’re here to help you understand what to do in foreclosure and what you should ask before hiring a foreclosure defense attorney. Let’s dive in.

1. What Experience Do You Have In Foreclosure Defense Cases?

Before hiring a foreclosure defense attorney, one of the best questions you could ask is to know what experience the attorney has in handling cases involving foreclosure defense. A foreclosure defense attorney should have a solid record of defending clients facing foreclosure. It ensures the attorney has the proper experience and qualifications to handle your situation.

Ask about details such as the number of cases the attorney experienced, any related victories in appeal or trial motions, and the attorney’s experience working with various situations and advocacy organizations. Find any specific successes the attorney has achieved in helping homeowners facing foreclosure. The more detail you receive, the better chance of selecting an experienced and capable foreclosure defense attorney.

2. Are You A Member Of Any Legal Organizations In The State?

It is one of the best questions before hiring a foreclosure defense attorney. Being a part of a legal organization allows attorneys to access resources, network with other legal professionals, and gain valuable insights.

Additionally, membership in a legal organization can sometimes provide security and assurance for the quality of a lawyer’s work. It illustrates a commitment to growth and excellence in the professional domain. Doing such may provide peace of mind that they have selected the right foreclosure defense attorney.

3. How Do You Bill For Legal Services?

When considering which foreclosure defense attorney to hire, asking how the lawyer bills for legal services is one of the best questions. The two main ways lawyers charge are by the hour and flat fee.

Hourly rates vary by attorney; you should ask your attorney to estimate the total cost and factor in all possible charges. Ask if they charge a flat fee for regular tasks, such as helping save a home from foreclosure.

Many attorneys offer free consultations but ask how they calculate the bill. Ask if the lawyer or their firm will negotiate a discounted rate or if they can defer some of the costs until after the case. Knowing the costs upfront is vital when hiring a foreclosure defense attorney.

4. How Will You Keep Me Updated As The Case Progresses?

Knowing a reliable and timely way to communicate with your attorney and receive vital updates is essential to understanding the status of your case. A great explanation of the attorney’s communication style, frequency, and understanding of progress would include details about when you should expect to receive progress reports.

The attorney should explain how they will notify you if they will adjust a deadline or when they will file new paperwork. The plan should also include if communication will be by email, text, phone, or mail.

Ask and understand a foreclosure defense attorney’s communication style before hiring them. It is an excellent way to ensure their services will be a success.

Read Also: 5 Benefits to Investing in Real Estate When You’re Young

5. What Strategies Will You Use?

One of the best questions to ask a foreclosure defense attorney before hiring them is, “What strategies will you use?”. Know what strategies the attorney plans to use in defending you and your home from foreclosure.

Conversations should involve discussing what strategies are available to ensure success. Find out if the attorney will use aggressive litigation tactics in court or mediation or if they prefer to negotiate with the lender.

Ask questions about the procedural tactics the attorney prefers. It includes filing a motion to compel, challenging the foreclosure, or negotiating to reduce or cut the debt.

Establish transparency and communication in the initial stages. This ensures that the attorney is familiar with the process and has a good track record of success.

6. How Will You Ensure All Your Legal Filings Are Up To Date And Accurate?

An excellent attorney will have a system in place to make sure they are doing everything necessary to ensure accuracy. The attorney should be able to explain the process they use to do this.

A good process would involve having an up-to-date filing calendar. This ensures they file all time-sensitive documents on time and double-check the accuracy of all filings.

The attorney should also be able to provide references for other clients they have represented. Ask these questions to all potential attorneys before making a decision.

7. Can You Recommend Foreclosure Bailout Lenders?

Asking a foreclosure defense attorney if they can recommend foreclosure bailout lenders is one of the most important questions to ask when hiring a foreclosure defense attorney. If the attorney is familiar with this situation, they can determine which lender can best address your needs and provide you with the best help.

With a foreclosure bailout lender, a home or property owner may be able to settle the debt or negotiate with the lender to reduce the owed amount. It can be a great way to avoid the foreclosure process. A knowledgeable foreclosure defense attorney can help you find the lender providing the best solution for your situation.

Additionally, they may be able to provide advice on how to manage your financial affairs in the meantime to prevent foreclosure from occurring. Asking this question is essential to ensuring you receive the best representation and the best outcome.

Follow This Guide In Hiring A Foreclosure Defense Attorney

Hiring a foreclosure defense attorney can be a stressful and critical decision. It’s best to ask the right questions before jumping into the process.

Seek attorney experience, caseload and fees, and availability to ensure you’re working with someone who can best handle your case. Get started today and contact an attorney to protect your home.

Have you found this article to be of use? Be sure to peruse our other articles for additional valuable insights.

Read Also:

• 7 Mistakes to Avoid When Investing in Property
• Investing Money Into The Business – What Should I Do?
• 7 Ways to Save Cost When Planning To Build Complicated Construction Project