A. We usually conduct the initial interview over the telephone to determine whether bankruptcy would be in the client's best interest. If so, we invite the client in for an office consultation. For the purpose of the in-office interview, please gather and bring with you the following:

• A recent statement or bill from every creditor. [A creditor is everyone to whom you owe money; this includes, but is not limited to, credit card companies, mortgage company, automobile and truck finance companies, the Internal Revenue Service, medical providers, education loan companies, school and county taxing authorities.

• Your last two years' federal income tax returns.

• The most recent month's wage statements from your employer. If you are self-employed, you will need to provide evidence of your typical gross income and business operating expenses.

• Checking account bank statements for the most recent three to six months. If you are self-employed, monthly operating statements.

• Deeds to real estate if you own or are purchasing real property other than your home in the city.

• Documentation to any other kind of financial obligation that you have.