There are two things that often make people shudder today, credit card debt and lawyers. But a combination of the two may be the very answer you need if you are in serious financial trouble due to unpaid credit card balances. The card companies would love for you to continue to carry a balance and pay interest every month. But if your finances are so out of control that you have been unable to make regular payments, something has to change. Bankruptcy is certainly an option, but that leaves such a negative mark on your credit record that it is not for everyone. Another choice is debt settlement, and an attorney can help you discover which is the best choice for you. Not only that, but your debt settlement attorney can then file for bankruptcy or negotiate your debt settlement, ensuring that everything is handled appropriately and legally. The alternative can be debt settlement companies that have a reputation for charging exorbitant fees and further damaging your credit. A lawyer may cost less in the end than a company whose goal is to take your money and run.