This is where it gets dicey in the consultation – the client wants to file alone and wants me to ignore the non-filing-spouse’s income and expenses. At this point, I present the choice: I can tell you what you want to hear, or I can help you review ALL of your options for solving your debt problem and describe the pro’s and con’s of each option.
Most clients are OK with looking at ALL of their options. Most think it is a good idea to “rise above the tree line” to see where each option will put them 3 to 5 years later.
You also must realize that most people that come to see me for a debt consultation are quite emotional, as they’ve been struggling with “marital discussions” caused by their debt problems. As a result, some clients think that I’ve gone from “preaching to meddling” when I take into account the income and expenses of the non-filing-spouse.
The frustration on the client’s part is understandable; it’s an emotionally-charged situation, and I can’t please everyone. However, if someone wants to go down a certain road, perhaps bankruptcy, and there are real problems that I can see with using that option, am I doing a service to the client by not pointing out the problems that are certain to occur? Do you shoot the messenger? You be the judge.