Can I file bankruptcy without an attorney?
Although it may be possible for some people to file a bankruptcy case without an attorney, it is not a step to be taken lightly. The process is difficult and you may lose property or other rights if you do not know the law. It takes patience and careful preparation. Chapter 7 (straight bankruptcy) cases are easier. Very few people have been able to successfully file Chapter 13 (debt adjustment) cases on their own. Remember: The law often changes. Each case is different. This is meant to give you general information and not to give you specific legal advice. You may obtain free advice or representation from Legal Services of Northern Michigan concerning bankruptcies or other legal problems if you are determined eligible for their services.
Bankruptcy is not the most complicated area of the law procedurally or substantively, and it is certainly possible for people to file for bankruptcy without an attorney, however, it is risky. Some cases are more complex, and you may lose important rights if you try such a case yourself. As a general rule, Chapter 7 cases are usually easier; Chapter 13 cases are usually significantly more difficult. If you want to try it, there are a number of “How-to” manuals available in bookstores and libraries that may help. Some legal assistance offices may assist you with the paperwork. To avoid the cost of an attorney, some people use document preparation services, typing services, or paralegal services, which prepare bankruptcy forms for a fee. After the forms are prepared, the client files them in court. These services may be a good deal if your case is simple and no complications arise. Unfortunately, you may not know whether your case is simple or not, except through hindsight, and then it ma
Although it is possible for some people to file a bankruptcy case without an attorney, it is not a step to be taken lightly. The process is difficult and you may lose property or other rights if you do not know the law. It takes patience and careful preparation. Chapter 7 cases are easier, but very few people have been able to successfully file chapter 13 cases on their own. Please keep in mind that the law often changes. Each case is different and as a result the information on this website is meant only to give you general information and not to give you specific legal advice. If you are contemplating bankruptcy or are having financial difficulty please feel free to contact our office and we will be happy to schedule a free consultation with an attorney to devise a legal strategy that works for your particular financial situation. Does filing for bankruptcy mean I have to go to court? For most bankruptcy filings you only have to go to court once. If you retain an attorney, the attorn
