What is the timeline once debt has been turned over to an attorney?

Some collection attorneys never file lawsuits, some file them automatically. The first issue is whether a lawsuit is worthwhile. If the debt is less than $1,000 or so, few attorneys will bother to file a lawsuit. Second issue, is can they collect. If you own a house and/or make more than $30,000 a year the attorney has a good chance of collecting. Once a lawsuit is filed, it takes at least 3 months to get a judgment, more if you file an answer.

There is no typical way for a creditor attorney to act. They might file suit in a month or they might wait a year. As to telling them you are going to file bankruptcy, that statement will not impress them one bit. They hear this and think LIAR. In terms of finding a bankruptcy pro bono attorney, good luck. Bankruptcy typically provides no real help for people whose income is so low that they are eligible for free or reduced services, and why provide a service if it gives the person no real benefit?

Call Colorado Legal Services to see if you qualify for pro bono legal services. There is no specific time line. Calling them may help if they know you are filing a BK.

There is no timeline set by law or regulation. Each collection entity sets its own priorities. If the debt is relatively small, they may simply make a threat or two to try to collect, and if that does not work, sell the claim to some other collector. Others may rush into court. There's no way of telling-except the smaller the debt, the more likely the collector will be willing to settle-or even not bother to sue. You can tell them you are filing for bankruptcy. This sometimes holds them off for a while, but every collector knows of phonies who threaten a bankruptcy, but never file. It's hard to find a pro bono BR attorney. But you might find one who is willing to accept payments over time.