* Blockbuster says does not intend to file for bankruptcy

* Blockbuster retains law firm to help with refinancing

* Netflix shares spike 6 percent (Adds analysts' comments, details on previous actions)

By Emily Chasan and Gina Keating

NEW YORK/LOS ANGELES, March 3 (Reuters) - Top U.S. movie rental chain Blockbuster (BBI.N: Quote, Profile, Research) has enlisted lawyers to help it raise capital and refinance debt, but stressed on Tuesday it has no plans to file for bankruptcy.

Blockbuster spokeswoman Karen Raskopf said the company has hired law firm Kirkland & Ellis LLP, but denied news reports that the firm could help Blockbuster file for bankruptcy.

Shares of the U.S. company, which has scrambled to compete with the increasing popularity of online video, plunged more than 76 percent before trading in them was suspended amid the reports.

A source familiar with the matter told Reuters on Tuesday that the struggling, debt-laden firm had hired lawyers and investment bank Rothschild to explore restructuring options -- including a potential bankruptcy filing. [ID:nN03496022]

"We do not intend to file for bankruptcy," Raskopf told Reuters.