What kind of lawyer should I contact? -

Someone tried to serve me papers - but at the wrong address. I figure it is only a matter of time until they find me and I quot;get servedquot;. Until then I feel I should consult with a lawyer. I am really strapped for cash and don t know if I can even afford one - is there any that will just answer questions until I find out if I need one or not? I can only guess that the papers being served are about past due bills. What kind of lawyer is appropriate for this?

If you have so many creditors that you don t know which ones are suing you: A bankruptcy lawyer.

Bankruptcy is actually a lot harder to file these days. You will have to meet with a credit counsler before you file BK anyway, so I would do that. How much debt you are in doesn t necessarily disbar you from BK it is partially your debt/income ratio. Have you tried to talk to any of the creditors? If you called them, they usually will work something out with you (e.g., payments and even lower payoffs) If you don t want to deal with them call a credit counsler, some of them are even free.

You probably do not need a lawyer. I recommend you contact a credit consulting service who can act as mediator to assit you in arrainging to pay your bills. Check the yellow pages under credit. Lawyers can do the same, but cost alot...

I would contact a bankruptcy lawyer. You can usually get some free advice over the phone if you explain your situation. Lawyers are looking for business just like everyone else, especially bankruptcy lawyers. You can check a list of them here: http://www.targetlaw.com/pages/results.p...

A civil trial lawyer.

A civil/financial lawyer might help.

Contract legal aid they provide free services to the poor. Call the state bar they can direct you. Also many law schools have free legal clinics. You mentioned you were reckless as a quot;teenquot; which side of 18 was that. You might be able to void any contract you made prior to turning 18. (Even if you lied about your age on the credit application.) This might make some of the debt go away or depending on the type of purchases you may still have to pay amount you charged, but not interest, fees etc.