In many cases a bankruptcy attorney can help the debtor avoid having to actually file bankruptcy by negotiating and working with they creditors directly to resolve the issues that have led to the debt. This can keep the debtor from having to file for bankruptcy and help prevent the future problems that declaring bankruptcy can cause.
There are pros and cons to either a liquidation or repayment type of bankruptcy. Without a knowledgeable attorney that can honestly help you assess the short and long term problems and benefits to each type of filing the client may be putting themselves in danger of further legal proceedings.