By Kitty J. Lin, Attorney at Law

When you meet with one of our Bay Area or San Mateo County bankruptcy lawyers, you can be assured that everything you tell us in the free consultation is completely confidential.  We are ethically bound by the attorney-client privilege to keep all communications between a client and his or her attorney completely confidential.  The attorney-client privilege is in effect as soon as you step through our doors.  Even if you do not end up retaining our services, we do not reveal anything you have told us in the consultation to anyone outside our office doors.   Thus, you can always speak freely and get an honest opinion about your case without the worry that your secrets will be revealed to the world.

Keep in mind that although our consultations are completely confidential, if and when you file your bankruptcy petition, the petition is public record.  This does not mean that your financial situation will be broadcasted to the world.  The fact that you have filed for bankruptcy protection is not sent to newspaper outlets, your neighbors or to your employer.  This means that if anyone wishes to search for your bankruptcy records, they will be able to do so, and they can find the records.  However, it is not free and takes some time and effort.  The only people that receive actual notice of your bankruptcy filing are the creditors that you owe money to.  This is similar to home ownership – your property information is recorded with the county, and anyone can search for your property holdings.   The only people that receive actual notice are the parties involved in the transaction.

If you need a free and confidential consultation with an experienced bankruptcy lawyer, please call us at 877-9NEW-LIFE or 877-963-9543.   We have offices in San Francisco, Redwood City, Oakland, and San Jose for your convenience.  You can also visit us online at www.WestCoastBK.com to schedule a free bankruptcy consultation.