' DIY Bankruptcy Filing - Law Offices of Robert M. Geller
CALL NOW!
FREE PHONE/VIRTUAL CONSULTATION

What to Know About DIY Bankruptcy Filing

Filing for bankruptcy is a complicated process, but the court does allow individuals to file on their own without an attorney. This is called pro se filing and is not recommended, even under the simplest of circumstances.

Sometimes, though, people choose to file without professional support to avoid attorneys’ fees (they still need to pay court fees). Unfortunately, even the smallest error can cause your bankruptcy to be denied, in the long run costing you more than if you’d worked with an attorney.

What will you need to handle during your pro se bankruptcy filing?

• Determining if Chapter 13 or Chapter 7 bankruptcy is the best option for you and whether or not you qualify for either or both options
• Completing and filing your paperwork
• Identifying and attending mandatory education courses related to bankruptcy
• Protecting your assets, such as your home or property
• Determining which debts are eligible for discharge
• Protecting your business, if you are a business owner
• Determining the tax consequences of filing
• Attending the Meeting of Creditors (you’ll attend the meeting whether you work with an attorney or not, but when working with one, he or she can attend with you)
• Handling discharge disputes from creditors
• Understanding the repayment plan, if there is one
• Emerging from bankruptcy successfully

If you choose to file for bankruptcy without an attorney, the court expects you to follow the same rules and procedures as anyone else. You’ll need to be familiar with the US Bankruptcy Code and the various federal rules of bankruptcy procedure. You’ll also need to understand any state or local rules that apply.

To find more information on the US Bankruptcy Code, visit UScourts.gov.

Pro se filers might have the option of working with non-attorney petition preparers. These are people (not attorneys) who help you enter information into your bankruptcy forms. They cannot provide legal advice or answer questions that go beyond helping you input information into your forms. Though a petition preparer can help you apply for bankruptcy, their services do not replace those of an attorney and you should not feel as if their guidance is a substitute for experienced legal advice. You are still responsible for all of the requirements listed above.

Investing in a Bankruptcy Attorney

Unfortunately, filing for bankruptcy is a tough decision and knowing you will likely need to pay someone to help you can be downright depressing. After all, you are facing the most difficult financial phase of your life and the last thing you want to do is shell out more money. However, without the support of a bankruptcy attorney, your plan to get yourself back on track financially can backfire. You are better off viewing attorneys’ fees as an investment that will pay off in the long run.

For more information about filing for bankruptcy or to get a better understanding of how much bankruptcy will cost, contact the Law Offices of Robert M. Geller at 813.254.5696 to schedule a consultation.

Archive

Video Testimonials

Tampa Bankruptcy Law Blog

Can Filing for Bankruptcy Affect Your Job?

Filing for bankruptcy can be a challenging decision that is fraught with many concerns. Among them is the fear that...
Read More

Can You Cancel a Bankruptcy?

Bankruptcy is an option that can save individuals and businesses from financial ruin. However, the process can be a long...
Read More

Does Bankruptcy Clear Child Support Arrears?

Bankruptcy is a legal process that provides relief to individuals who cannot pay their debts. One common question among individuals...
Read More

Is Alimony Dischargeable in Bankruptcy?

One of the biggest concerns that people have when considering bankruptcy is the effect on their financial obligations, including spousal...
Read More

Should You File Bankruptcy Before or After Divorce?

Marriage and finances can be a tricky combination. Timing is also an issue when it comes to filing for bankruptcy....
Read More

What’s Better Bankruptcy or Debt Settlement?

The idea of being trapped in debt can be overwhelming and all-consuming. Financial struggles can happen to anyone through no...
Read More

Can I Keep One Credit Card During Bankruptcy?

The decision to file for bankruptcy is never easy. People considering this option often struggle with financial stress, debts, and...
Read More

How Does Inflation Affect Credit Card Debt?

Credit card debt can be overwhelming. This is especially true during times of inflation. What is Inflation? Inflation is a...
Read More

Can Personal Bankruptcy Affect My Business?

If you’re a business owner considering filing for bankruptcy, it’s important to understand how this decision impacts your business. From...
Read More

Can You File Bankruptcy with Money in the Bank?

Bankruptcy is a serious decision and has major consequences on your credit as well as your overall financial situation. If...
Read More

Bankruptcy

For The Next 5 Days GET A FREE BOOK About Bankruptcy

Learn More

Infographics

We are A Debt Relief Agency.
We help people file for bankruptcy under the Bankruptcy Code

Pay Online Bankruptcy Courses Newsletter Subscription

Call For A Free Initial Consultation

813.254.5696

Tampa Office

Law Offices of Robert M. Geller, P.A.
807 West Azeele Street
Tampa, FL 33606
T: (813) 254-5696
T: (800) 853-7549
F: (813) 253-3405

Map And Directions

St. Petersburg Office

Law Offices of Robert M. Geller, P.A.
125 5th Street South
(Wells Fargo Financial Center)
2nd Floor, Suite G
St. Petersburg, FL 33701
T: (727) 532-3939

Map And Directions

Pasco Office

23526 State Road 54
Lutz, FL 33559
T: (813) 336-2320

Map And Directions